Description
Pecan Pie Dump Cake is a rich, buttery dessert that combines the gooey goodness of pecan pie with the ease of a dump cake. With layers of pecan filling, cake mix, and crunchy pecans, it bakes into a golden, caramelized treat that’s perfect for holidays, potlucks, or cozy nights in.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup pecan halves
- 2 cups yellow cake mix
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Before you start assembling the cake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the cake bakes evenly from the start.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
Take your 9×13-inch baking dish and pour the melted butter evenly across the bottom. This buttery base adds richness and helps caramelize the bottom layer.
Step 3: Add the Pecans
Sprinkle pecan halves evenly over the butter. During baking, they soak up flavor and deliver a satisfying crunch.
Step 4: Mix the Sugar Mixture
In a small bowl, stir together brown sugar, water, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. This aromatic mixture gives the dessert that signature gooey, pie-like texture.
Step 5: Pour the Mixture Over the Pecans
Carefully pour the sugar syrup over the pecans. Don’t stir—the layers are meant to bake separately for that classic dump cake texture.
Step 6: Add the Cake Mix
Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the top. Use a spoon to smooth it out if needed, but avoid mixing.
Step 7: Bake the Dump Cake
Place the dish in your preheated oven. Bake for 35–40 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly around the edges. The smell is irresistible!
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Remove from oven and allow it to cool for 10 minutes. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Pecan Pie Dump Cake warm. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for the ultimate comfort dessert.
Notes
- No stirring needed—just layer and bake!
- Use butter, not margarine, for the best flavor and texture.
- Try toasting the pecans before adding them for deeper nutty flavor.
- Let it cool for at least 15 minutes to set before slicing.
- Can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days; reheat for best texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes