Name: Pecan Pie Dump Cake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1½ cups light brown sugar; 3 large eggs, lightly beaten; 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk; 1 cup salted butter, softened and divided; 2 cups pecan halves, divided; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; ½ teaspoon salt; 15 oz box yellow cake mix; ½ cup salted butter, softened (from the divided butter); 1 teaspoon cinnamon; ½ teaspoon nutmeg; Caramel sauce, for drizzling

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 2 reviews

If you’re craving the rich, nutty goodness of pecan pie but want a fuss-free, crowd-pleasing dessert, this Pecan Pie Dump Cake Recipe is your new best friend. It takes all the classic flavors you adore in pecan pie and transforms them into a delightfully easy-to-make dump cake that boasts a gooey, sweet filling beneath a perfectly crumbly, spiced cake topping. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or just because, this recipe delivers unbeatable comfort and decadence with minimal effort, making every bite a little moment of pure joy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl contains three main layers placed side by side on a white marbled surface: on the left is a smooth pale beige creamy layer, in the middle is a thick stick of off-white butter resting on a shiny yellow melted butter pool, and on the right is a pile of rich brown pecan nuts with textured ridges. The contrast between the smooth creamy layers and the rough nuts creates a visually rich composition. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Believe it or not, the ingredients in this Pecan Pie Dump Cake Recipe are straightforward yet essential. Each one plays a crucial role in balancing the sweet, nutty, and buttery flavors while creating that irresistible texture we all love in pecan desserts.

Light brown sugar (1½ cups): Adds deep, caramel-like sweetness that’s essential for that rich pecan pie flavor.
Large eggs, lightly beaten (3): Act as the binder to give the filling a creamy, custard-like consistency.
Sweetened condensed milk (14 oz can): Brings smooth sweetness and richness, making the filling luxuriously creamy.
Pecan halves (2 cups, divided): Provide that signature crunch and nutty depth; dividing them allows for layered texture.
Salted butter, softened (1 cup, divided): Infuses the cake topping with moisture and richness, while helping it crisp up beautifully.
Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Enhances all those warm flavors and rounds out the sweetness perfectly.
Salt (½ teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and amplifies the other flavors.
Yellow cake mix (15 oz box): Keeps things simple and delivers the soft, crumbly topping with an inviting golden hue.
Cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Adds a warm, spicy note that’s essential in holiday baking.
Nutmeg (½ teaspoon): Brings a subtle earthiness that complements the pecans and brown sugar beautifully.
Caramel sauce (for serving): Optional, but a drizzle of caramel on top takes every bite over the edge.

How to Make Pecan Pie Dump Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and generously spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish with nonstick baking spray. This ensures the cake will slide out easily and the edges bake evenly to achieve that glorious golden crust.

Step 2: Prepare the Wet Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, lightly beaten eggs, sweetened condensed milk, 1 cup of pecan halves, ½ cup of the softened butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Mixing these ingredients well forms the luscious, gooey filling layer that is the heart and soul of this dump cake.

Step 3: Prepare the Dry Mixture

Grab another large bowl and combine the yellow cake mix with cinnamon and nutmeg. Add the remaining ½ cup of butter, then use a fork or your clean hands to work the butter into the dry ingredients until it resembles coarse crumbles. This simple step is what creates that perfectly textured, spiced crumb topping that contrasts so nicely with the creamy filling below.

Step 4: Assemble the Dump Cake

Pour the wet mixture evenly into the prepared casserole dish. Then sprinkle the dry crumb mixture over the top so the filling is completely covered and clamp all those flavors together. Finally, scatter the remaining 1 cup of pecan halves across the surface for an irresistible crunch and nutty finish.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 45 minutes, or until the center is set and no longer jiggly. You’ll know it’s done when the topping is golden and the kitchen smells like pure bliss. Let it cool slightly before serving to allow the filling to thicken just right.

How to Serve Pecan Pie Dump Cake Recipe

A close-up view of a baked dessert in a white dish, showing two layers: the bottom layer is crumbly and golden brown with a rough texture, and the top layer is covered with large, glossy pecan halves evenly spread across the surface. The pecans are a rich reddish-brown color and have a shiny syrup drizzled around and over them, adding a sticky, amber glaze. One section in the corner shows a small portion scooped out, revealing the layered crumbly texture inside and some sticky syrup pooled in the dish. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Enhance the serving experience by drizzling warm caramel sauce over each slice, which adds an extra layer of sweetness and a gorgeous glossy finish. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can also bring wonderful creaminess that complements the texture of the cake.

Side Dishes

This Pecan Pie Dump Cake Recipe shines best as a standalone dessert, but pairing it with fresh berries or a simple mixed green salad with a light citrus vinaigrette can balance the sweetness beautifully, especially if you’re serving it at a larger meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming twist, serve individual portions in small ramekins with the pecan topping visible on top. You can also layer smaller pieces with whipped cream and crushed pecans to create an elegant trifle. No matter how you present it, this cake never fails to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover cake loosely covered with foil or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigeration will keep it fresh for up to a week but bring it back to room temperature before enjoying to restore the best texture.

Freezing

You can freeze this dump cake for up to three months. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently in the oven.

Reheating

Reheat slices in a low oven at 300°F for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to preserve the crisp topping, but if you’re in a hurry, cover loosely and microwave for 30-second intervals until hot.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of nuts in this Pecan Pie Dump Cake Recipe?

Absolutely! While pecans are classic and provide that signature flavor, walnuts or even chopped almonds can be used for a different but still delicious twist. Just make sure to toast them slightly to bring out their best flavor.

Is it possible to make this dessert gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix, ensuring it is one that’s suitable for baking and has similar texture. This way, everyone can enjoy the deliciousness without worries.

Can I prepare this dessert ahead of time?

Definitely! You can assemble the cake the night before and keep it covered in the fridge. When you’re ready, just bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

How does this Pecan Pie Dump Cake Recipe differ from traditional pecan pie?

This dump cake simplifies the whole process by eliminating the need for a pie crust and pie dough prep. Instead, it layers the pecan filling with a crumbly cake topping, resulting in a quicker, easier recipe with all the classic flavors intact.

What’s the secret to getting a crunchy topping?

Using cold, softened butter worked into the dry cake mix until crumbly creates pockets that bake into that perfect, crisp topping. Make sure not to melt the butter completely, or your topping won’t have the desired texture.

Final Thoughts

This Pecan Pie Dump Cake Recipe is honestly one of those magical desserts that feels like a cozy hug on a plate. It’s remarkably simple, yet so full of flavor and texture, perfect for impressing guests or simply indulging yourself. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience the joy of this no-fuss, unforgettable pecan pie-inspired treat!