Pecan Pie Dump Cake

If you’re searching for a cozy, indulgent dessert that’s effortlessly delicious, look no further than the easy pecan pie dump cake. This dessert is the perfect fusion of a classic Southern pecan pie and a quick, crowd-pleasing dump cake, combining minimal prep with rich, gooey flavor. Whether you’re preparing for Thanksgiving, a potluck, or just craving something sweet and nutty, this recipe is the answer.

What sets this dessert apart is its simplicity. With just a few pantry staples—like yellow cake mix, pecans, and sweetened condensed milk—you’ll have a rustic yet luxurious dessert that tastes like it took hours to make. And because there’s no need to fuss with pie crust or complicated steps, it’s a fantastic option for beginner bakers or busy families.

Curious about the ingredients and why this dessert is so beloved? Let’s explore what makes this dish shine. (Learn more about what is a dump cake and how this Southern gem became a classic.)

If you’re looking for holiday baking inspiration, don’t miss this Pinterest board full of easy holiday desserts, where the pecan pie dump cake often steals the show.

🥜 Ingredients breakdown

Understanding each ingredient in your pecan pie dump cake not only improves your results, it also opens the door to easy swaps and enhancements. Here’s what goes into this decadent dish:

• 1 cup chopped pecans – These give the dessert its signature crunch and nutty depth. Toast them for an even richer flavor. Curious about the origin? Here’s what are pecans.

• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk – This creamy base adds richness and sweetness. Discover more about sweetened condensed milk and how it differs from evaporated milk.

• 1 cup light or dark corn syrup – Provides a smooth, syrupy texture similar to traditional pecan pie. If you’re avoiding corn syrup, consider using maple syrup or honey.

• ½ cup melted butter + ½ cup cold butter slices – Melted butter enhances the filling while cold slices on top help form the golden crust. Use real butter for best flavor.

• 1 tsp vanilla extract – Adds warmth and depth. Opt for pure vanilla extract over imitation for best results.

• 1 box yellow cake mix (15 oz) – The shortcut crust that turns golden and slightly crispy when baked. It’s a signature element of all dump cakes.

• 1 cup water – Poured gently on top to ensure even baking without mixing the layers.

Each ingredient contributes to the flavor and texture, making this one of the most irresistible Southern desserts you can whip up in under an hour.

👩‍🍳 Step-by-step instructions

Creating your easy pecan pie dump cake is as simple as layering and baking—no mixers, no bowls, and no hassle. Here’s how to get it perfect every time:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick spray or butter.

2. Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly across the bottom of the baking dish.

3. Pour the sweetened condensed milk, corn syrup, melted butter, and vanilla extract directly over the pecans. Do not stir—this is key to keeping the layers intact.

4. Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the top. Avoid pressing it down or mixing it in.

5. Dot with thin slices of cold butter, spacing them across the surface for even coverage.

6. Gently pour the water over the top, covering the surface lightly. This helps moisten the cake mix and promotes even baking.

7. Bake for 50–60 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly around the edges.

8. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving, allowing the filling to set slightly.

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting, melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Looking for other creative cake recipes? Check out this Pinterest collection of dump cake recipe inspiration that takes boxed cake mix to the next level.

And if you’re into fun baking shortcuts, you’ll love these creative cake mix hacks that make every box feel gourmet.

🍯 Taste and texture expectations

The easy pecan pie dump cake offers a luxurious combination of textures and flavors in every bite:

• Top layer: Buttery and golden from the cake mix and sliced butter, it creates a crisp, crumbly crust.

• Middle: Sweet, gooey filling reminiscent of pecan pie, thanks to the corn syrup and condensed milk blend.

• Bottom: Toasty, nutty pecans provide a delightful crunch and earthy contrast to the sweetness.

The result is a dessert that’s both rustic and indulgent. If you enjoy desserts that are soft, sticky, and slightly crisp on top, you’re going to fall in love with this one.

🔥 Tips for best results

To ensure that your dump cake turns out perfect every time, keep these expert tips in mind:

• Toast your pecans: Add depth by toasting them in a dry skillet for 3–5 minutes before baking.

• Don’t stir the layers: Keeping the layers separate ensures the unique texture of each component.

• Use real butter: Margarine won’t provide the same richness or browning effect.

• Check halfway through: If the top is browning too fast, loosely cover with foil.

• Let it rest: After baking, give it 10–15 minutes to set before serving to avoid a runny center.

• Try pecan pie filling: For a quick swap, use 1 can of premade pecan pie filling instead of corn syrup and condensed milk.

For more pecan dessert ideas, explore this Pinterest board full of inspiration, from pies to cookies and everything in between.

🧁 Popular variations and customizations

One of the joys of this recipe is how easily it can be customized. Here are some of the most-loved twists on the classic pecan pie dump cake:

• Chocolate chip pecan dump cake – Add ¾ cup of chocolate chips for a fudgy surprise.

• Butter pecan or spice cake mix – Swap out yellow cake mix for extra autumn flavor.

• Mini marshmallows – Sprinkle on top before baking for a toasted, s’mores-like effect.

• Coconut flakes – Add a tropical touch by layering sweetened coconut before the cake mix.

• Gluten-free version – Use a gluten-free cake mix without changing any other ingredients.

This flexibility makes it a go-to dessert year-round—from fall gatherings to summer barbecues.

🧊 How to store and reheat leftovers

This dessert is just as delightful the next day. Here’s how to store and revive your leftovers:

• Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

• Refrigerator: Keeps well for 4–5 days. Cool completely before covering.

• Freezer: You can freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months.

Reheating tips:

• Microwave: 30–45 seconds per slice; add a scoop of ice cream after reheating.

• Oven: 300°F for 10–12 minutes for a crispier texture.

Avoid reheating more than once to maintain the texture and flavor integrity.

🍦 Serving suggestions

This dessert is satisfying on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a few extra touches:

• Vanilla ice cream – The contrast of warm cake and cold ice cream is unbeatable.

• Whipped cream – Adds a light, airy finish.

• Dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg – Enhances the fall flavors.

• Drizzle of maple syrup – Boosts sweetness and brings a rustic charm.

• Chopped toasted pecans on top – For extra crunch and presentation.

Whether served in a bowl, on a plate, or straight from the pan, this easy pecan pie dump cake is a guaranteed hit.

🧾 Nutrition information and allergens

This dessert is rich and indulgent, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation. Below is a rough nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 12 servings):

Note: You can reduce calories by using light butter and cutting the serving size in half.

🥧 Easy pecan pie dump cake vs traditional pecan pie

You might wonder how this dump cake compares to a traditional pecan pie. Let’s break it down:

• Time: Dump cake takes less than 10 minutes to assemble; pecan pie can take over an hour.

• Skill level: Dump cake requires zero baking experience; pecan pie demands precision with crust and filling.

• Texture: Dump cake is more rustic and layered; pecan pie is denser with a firm filling.

• Serving style: Dump cake is perfect for scooping; pie slices neatly.

For busy families or last-minute hosts, the easy pecan pie dump cake delivers that nostalgic flavor with half the work.

❓ Frequently asked questions

Can I make pecan pie dump cake ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving.

Do I stir the layers together?
No. Dump cakes rely on layering. Stirring will disrupt the texture and make it soggy.

Can I make this without corn syrup?
Absolutely. Substitute with maple syrup or honey. Learn more about corn syrup alternatives.

What if I only have pecan halves?
No problem. Roughly chop them or pulse in a food processor to get the right texture.

Can I use a different cake mix flavor?
Yes, you can. Try butter pecan, chocolate, or spice cake mixes for seasonal variety.

🎯 Final thoughts

The easy pecan pie dump cake is a celebration of comfort, convenience, and Southern flavor. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a dessert that brings joy to any table. Its versatility, richness, and simplicity make it a go-to treat that’s hard to resist.

Whether you’re a beginner baker, a busy parent, or just someone who loves pecans, this dump cake will earn a permanent spot in your dessert rotation. For more fall flavors, check out this Pinterest board for fall dessert recipes that showcase the season’s best ingredients.

Need more pie-adjacent desserts? Browse this helpful Wikipedia page on pecan desserts or get inspired by fall dessert recipes that pair beautifully with this dish.

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