Pecan Pie Dump Cake – The Ultimate Lazy Dessert That Tastes Like Fall in a Pan 🍁
Craving the rich, gooey flavor of pecan pie but don’t want to deal with pie crust or complicated steps? This Pecan Pie Dump Cake is your shortcut to dessert heaven. With layers of buttery pecans, warm spices, brown sugar syrup, and a golden cake topping, it’s everything you love about pecan pie baked into a low-effort, high-reward dump cake. Perfect for cozy nights, family gatherings, holiday meals, or anytime you want a sweet treat with minimal cleanup.
All you need is a baking dish and a few pantry staples. No mixing bowls, no electric mixer, no stress—just dump, bake, and devour.
Ingredients to prepare this irresistible dessert, you’ll need:
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup pecan halves
2 cups yellow cake mix (boxed mix, unprepared)
1 cup brown sugar, packed
½ cup water
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp ground cinnamon
Optional Add-ons
Pinch of nutmeg for extra spice
Maple syrup drizzle on top after baking
Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for serving
How to Make Pecan Pie Dump Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or spray with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Layer the Butter and Pecans
Pour the melted butter evenly into the bottom of your baking dish. Spread the pecan halves evenly over the butter. This forms the buttery, nutty base that gives this dump cake its signature flavor.
Step 3: Make the Brown Sugar Mixture
In a separate bowl, combine the brown sugar, water, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Stir until the sugar is mostly dissolved and the mixture is well blended.
Step 4: Pour Over the Pecans
Gently pour the brown sugar mixture over the pecans in the baking dish, covering them evenly.
Step 5: Add the Cake Mix
Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix directly over the top. Spread it evenly to cover the entire surface. Do not stir. The layers need to stay separated to create the buttery, gooey filling with a golden cake topping.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. A cake tester or toothpick inserted into the center should come out mostly clean.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Let the dump cake cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to scoop.
Step 8: Garnish (Optional)
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A drizzle of caramel sauce takes it to the next level.
Helpful Tips
Don’t stir the layers—it’s called a dump cake for a reason!
Use fresh pecans for the best flavor and crunch
Add extra cinnamon or nutmeg for a warmer, spiced version
Double the recipe for potlucks or big family dinners
What Chefs Say About This Recipe
Ina Garten – “A brilliant shortcut to classic pecan pie flavor—without the fuss.”
Ree Drummond – “This is exactly the kind of comforting dessert I love to serve my family.”
Trisha Yearwood – “You can’t beat a dump cake that tastes like Southern pecan pie. Easy and delicious.”
Gordon Ramsay – “It’s rustic, rich, and incredibly satisfying. Dessert doesn’t have to be complicated.”
Martha Stewart – “Warm, buttery, and perfectly sweet. A wonderful ending to any meal.”
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use a different cake mix flavor? Yes! Butter pecan or spice cake mix would be fantastic alternatives.
- Can I make this without nuts? You can omit the pecans, but it won’t have the same pecan pie vibe. Consider adding oats or graham cracker crumbs for texture.
- Can I use margarine instead of butter? Real butter is best for flavor, but margarine will work in a pinch.
- Is this freezer-friendly? It can be frozen once baked and cooled. Wrap tightly and reheat in the oven.
- Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! Make it a day in advance and reheat in the oven at 300°F for 10-15 minutes before serving.
- How long does it keep? Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Can I add chocolate chips or caramel? Absolutely! Sprinkle chocolate chips or drizzle caramel before baking for an extra indulgent touch.
- What if I only have salted butter? It will still work, but consider reducing added salt in other parts of the dish if using.
- Can I use homemade cake mix? Yes, just use about 2 cups of your favorite homemade yellow cake mix.
- Is there a gluten-free version? Use a gluten-free cake mix and confirm your other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approximate)
Calories: 350
Total Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Sugar: 30g
Protein: 3g
Sodium: 220mg
Fiber: 1g
Iron: 6% DV
Calcium: 4% DV
Storage and Leftovers
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Reheat: Microwave individual portions or reheat in the oven at 300°F until warmed through
Freeze: Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating
Equipments Needed
9×13-inch baking dish
Medium mixing bowl
Whisk or spoon
Oven
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Conclusion
This Pecan Pie Dump Cake is the no-fail, crowd-pleasing dessert you’ll reach for time and time again. It’s the perfect blend of simplicity and indulgence, offering all the classic flavors of pecan pie without the hassle of a crust. Whether you’re serving it for a fall gathering, holiday celebration, or just a weeknight craving, it’s guaranteed to satisfy. With every spoonful, you’ll enjoy layers of buttery goodness, crunchy pecans, and tender cake.