Pecan Pie Dump Cake

Name: Pecan Pie Dump Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups dark brown sugar; 1 cup light corn syrup; 1 1/4 cups melted butter; 3 eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 4 cups pecan halves; 1 (15.25 oz) package white cake mix; 1 cup hot water

Posted on November 3, 2025

Desserts & Sweets

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Pecan Pie Dump Cake is an incredibly easy and delicious dessert that combines the rich, gooey flavors of a classic pecan pie with a cake mix! This delightful treat is perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to casual family dinners. The convenience of this dump cake means you can whip it up quickly while still impressing your guests with its decadent taste and texture. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dessert that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless Preparation: Just mix, dump, and bake—no complicated steps involved!
Rich Flavor: Combines creamy textures with the nutty goodness of pecans for a satisfying treat.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm with ice cream or cold as a sweet snack.
Perfect for Gatherings: Ideal for Thanksgiving or any festive occasion where desserts shine.
Kid-Friendly Fun: A great way to get kids involved in baking without overwhelming them.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delightful recipe, make sure you have the right kitchen tools on hand. These will help streamline your baking experience.

Essential Kitchen Tools

9 x 13-inch baking pan
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Non-stick cooking spray

Why These Tools Matter

9 x 13-inch baking pan: This size ensures even cooking and ample space for your dump cake.
Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes helps keep your ingredients organized during preparation.
Whisk: Perfect for blending ingredients smoothly without lumps.

Ingredients

To make this delectable Pecan Pie Dump Cake, gather the following ingredients:

1 1/2 cups Dark Brown Sugar
1 cup Dark Corn Syrup
1 1/4 cup Butter, Melted
3 Eggs
2 tsp Vanilla
4 cups Pecan Halves
1 (15.25 oz) White Cake Mix
1 cup Hot Water
Ice Cream or Whipped Cream, Optional
Caramel Topping, Optional

How to Make Pecan Pie Dump Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oven heats up, spray your 9 x 13-inch baking pan with non-stick spray and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Pecan Mixture

In a medium-sized bowl, combine:
1. Add 1 cup dark brown sugar.
2. Pour in dark corn syrup.
3. Mix in 1/2 cup melted butter, followed by the eggs and vanilla.
4. Whisk all the ingredients together until well combined.

Next, fold in:
– 3 cups pecan halves

Spread this mixture evenly into your prepared baking pan.

Step 3: Add Cake Mix and Butter

Sprinkle:
– The entire package of white cake mix evenly over the pecan filling.

Then drizzle:
– The remaining 3/4 cup melted butter over the dry cake mix.

Step 4: Finish with Sugar and Water

Sprinkle:
– The last 1/2 cup dark brown sugar over the butter layer.

Finally:
1. Pour hot water over the top of everything.
2. Do not stir; instead, carefully tilt the pan to distribute the water over the cake mix evenly.

Step 5: Top it Off

Sprinkle:
– The final cup of pecan halves over the top.

Step 6: Bake Your Dessert

Bake in your preheated oven for about:
– 30–35 minutes, or until golden brown. The center may still be slightly jiggly but will firm up as it cools.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow your Pecan Pie Dump Cake to cool completely before serving. For an extra special touch, serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream, drizzled with caramel if desired. Enjoy this easy yet indulgent dessert!

How to Serve Pecan Pie Dump Cake

Pecan Pie Dump Cake is a delightful dessert that can be served in various ways to enhance its rich flavors. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will elevate your dessert experience.

Serve with Ice Cream

Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that complements the sweetness of the cake.
Chocolate Ice Cream: Adds a rich chocolate flavor that contrasts beautifully with the pecan filling.

Drizzle with Caramel Sauce

Homemade Caramel: A warm, homemade caramel sauce adds an extra layer of sweetness and richness.
Store-Bought Caramel: For convenience, drizzling some store-bought caramel provides a quick and tasty option.

Add Whipped Cream

Fresh Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy whipped cream balances the dense cake perfectly.
Flavored Whipped Cream: Consider adding vanilla or cinnamon for a unique twist.

Top with Nuts

Toasted Pecans: Sprinkle some toasted pecans on top for crunch and extra flavor.
Mixed Nuts: A variety of nuts can add texture and make your dessert even more interesting.

How to Perfect Pecan Pie Dump Cake

Creating the perfect Pecan Pie Dump Cake requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dessert turns out delicious every time.

Use Quality Ingredients: Choose fresh pecans and high-quality butter for the best flavor.
Don’t Overmix: Mix ingredients gently to maintain the cake’s texture; overmixing can lead to a denser cake.
Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool entirely before serving; this helps it set and enhances the flavors.
Store Properly: Keep leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to three days for optimal freshness.
Experiment with Toppings: Try different toppings like berries or nuts to find your perfect combination.

Best Side Dishes for Pecan Pie Dump Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Pecan Pie Dump Cake can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some ideas for sides that complement this sweet treat beautifully.

Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide a savory contrast to the sweetness of the dump cake.
Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the dessert.
Mashed Sweet Potatoes: Creamy mashed sweet potatoes add comfort and warmth to your meal.
Stuffing: Herb-infused stuffing offers a hearty element that pairs well with desserts during festive occasions.
Green Bean Casserole: This classic side dish brings a creamy texture that complements the Pecan Pie Dump Cake nicely.
Cornbread: Sweet cornbread can serve as a delightful counterpart, enhancing the Southern charm of your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pecan Pie Dump Cake, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

Using the wrong pan size: Always use a 9 x 13-inch pan for even baking and the right texture.
Skipping the whisking step: Not properly whisking the ingredients can lead to uneven flavors. Make sure to mix well!
Overbaking: Keep an eye on your cake in the oven. It should be slightly jiggly in the center when done.
Not cooling completely: Allowing the cake to cool fully ensures it sets properly and enhances its flavor.
Neglecting toppings: Ice cream or whipped cream adds a delightful touch. Don’t skip this optional finish!

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Pecan Pie Dump Cake can last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pecan Pie Dump Cake

Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pecan Pie Dump Cake

Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Heat individual servings on medium power for 30-60 seconds.
Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pecan Pie Dump Cake?

Pecan Pie Dump Cake is a simple dessert that combines pecans with cake mix for a rich, gooey treat reminiscent of classic pecan pie.

How do I know when my Pecan Pie Dump Cake is done?

The cake will be golden brown and slightly jiggly in the center when ready. It will firm up as it cools.

Can I customize my Pecan Pie Dump Cake?

Absolutely! Feel free to add chocolate chips or other nuts for extra flavor and texture.

How should I serve Pecan Pie Dump Cake?

For an indulgent experience, serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream on top. A drizzle of caramel also adds delightful sweetness.

Conclusion

Pecan Pie Dump Cake is not just easy to make; its rich flavors and textures make it an irresistible dessert. You can customize it with various toppings or mix-ins, making it perfect for any occasion. Give this delightful recipe a try!