🥧 Pecan Pie Dump Cake — Easy, Buttery, Gooey Dessert
This pecan pie dump cake combines the flavors of classic pecan pie with the simplicity of a cake mix dessert. It has a buttery cake topping, a sweet caramel-like pecan filling, and a crunchy nutty finish. It’s perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or when you want a dessert with minimal effort.
🍰 Recipe Details
Servings: 12–15
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Bake Time: 50–60 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour
Ingredients
For the Pecan Pie Layer
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
- ½ cup corn syrup (light or dark)
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Cake Layer
- 1 box yellow cake mix (about 15–16 oz / 430–450 g)
- 1 cup melted butter (2 sticks)
Optional Toppings
- Extra chopped pecans
- Whipped cream
- Vanilla ice cream
- Caramel drizzle
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
Step 2: Make the Pecan Pie Filling
In a bowl, mix together:
- Brown sugar
- Corn syrup
- Eggs
- Melted butter
- Vanilla
- Salt
Whisk until smooth.
Stir in the chopped pecans.
Pour this mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Step 3: Add the Cake Mix
- Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the pecan layer.
- Do not mix the layers.
The “dump cake” method works because the layers bake together in the oven.
Step 4: Add Butter
Slowly pour the melted butter over the entire cake mix layer.
Try to cover as much of the dry mix as possible.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for:
50–60 minutes
until:
- The top is golden brown
- The edges are bubbling
- The center is mostly set
The inside should stay slightly gooey, like pecan pie.
Rest Before Serving
Let it cool for 20–30 minutes before slicing.
This helps the pecan layer thicken and makes it easier to serve.
Best Serving Ideas
Serve warm with:
🍦 Vanilla ice cream
🥛 Whipped cream
🍯 Caramel sauce
☕ Coffee or tea
Tips for the Best Pecan Pie Dump Cake
Use Fresh Pecans
Fresh nuts give the best buttery flavor and crunch.
Don’t Overbake
Overbaking can make the pecan layer too firm instead of gooey.
Add More Flavor
Try adding:
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- A pinch of nutmeg
- A handful of chocolate chips
Storage
Room temperature: Up to 2 days covered
Refrigerator: 4–5 days in an airtight container
Freezer: Up to 3 months
Warm leftovers for a few seconds before serving for that fresh-baked texture.
This dessert is basically a shortcut pecan pie with a golden cake topping—rich, sweet, buttery, and incredibly easy. 🥧
