If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that’s effortless to whip up but delivers big on flavor and texture, look no further than this Delicious Pecan Pie Dump Cake Recipe. Imagine all that sticky, nutty goodness of classic pecan pie layered beneath a golden, buttery cake crust that practically melts in your mouth. This recipe combines the best of both worlds—rich, gooey pecan filling and tender cake—without the fuss of multiple bowls and elaborate steps. It’s the perfect sweet treat to share with friends or savor any day of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Delicious Pecan Pie Dump Cake Recipe lies in its simple, everyday ingredients. Each one plays a special role, whether it’s creating the luscious filling, adding a tender crumb, or bringing that unmistakable nutty crunch and warmth to every bite.
- Pecan pie filling (1 can or 1 1/2 cups homemade): This is the heart of the dessert, providing that rich, caramelized pecan sweetness everyone loves.
- Yellow cake mix (1 box): The base that forms a soft, cakey topping contrasting the gooey filling beneath.
- Large eggs (3): Essential for binding the cake mix into a luscious batter.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted): Drizzled on top for flavor and helps to crisp up the cake’s surface beautifully.
- Chopped pecans (1/2 cup): Adds extra crunch and a fresh burst of nutty flavor on top.
- Cinnamon (1/2 tsp, optional): For a subtle warming spice that deepens the flavor and aroma.
How to Make Delicious Pecan Pie Dump Cake Recipe
Step 1: Get Your Oven Ready
Start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cake will bake evenly from the moment it goes in. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and to help the edges brown nicely.
Step 2: Layer the Pecan Pie Filling
Spread the pecan pie filling evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This sets the gooey, nutty base that will shine through under the cake layer.
Step 3: Mix the Cake Batter
In a medium bowl, whisk together the yellow cake mix and eggs until you get a thick, combined batter. This batter will be dense enough to layer on top without sinking into the filling completely, creating that perfect two-layer effect.
Step 4: Spread the Batter and Add Butter
Spoon and gently spread the batter evenly over the pecan filling. Next, drizzle the melted butter carefully all over the cake batter. The butter is the secret to a crispy, golden-brown top that contrasts wonderfully with the soft interior.
Step 5: Sprinkle Pecans and Cinnamon
Finish by sprinkling chopped pecans for a lovely nutty crunch and dust cinnamon on top if you’re feeling that cozy, warming touch. This step amps up both texture and aroma.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake the dump cake for 40 to 45 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the center sets. You’ll know it’s done when the edges pull slightly away from the dish and the top feels firm to the touch.
Step 7: Let It Cool Slightly and Serve
Allow the cake to cool just a bit before serving. This resting time helps the layers settle and makes scooping easier. Serve warm for the best experience, ideally accompanied by some vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
How to Serve Delicious Pecan Pie Dump Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your presentation with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a swirl of freshly whipped cream. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce also pairs amazingly well and adds a touch of elegance.
Side Dishes
This rich dessert shines best when served simply, but you can balance it out with some fresh berries or a small salad if you want a palate cleanser alongside. Hot coffee or a spiced chai tea also complement the pecan and cinnamon flavors wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, try serving the dump cake in individual ramekins for personal portions or layer it in a trifle bowl with dollops of whipped cream between layers for a show-stopping dessert centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover the dump cake tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days, allowing you to enjoy that scrumptious flavor even after your first serving.
Freezing
If you want to keep this treat for longer, you can freeze it once baked and cooled. Wrap it well in foil and plastic wrap to avoid freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for about 30 seconds. Adding a little extra topping of ice cream or whipped cream freshens it up beautifully.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pecan pie filling instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! Homemade pecan pie filling adds a personal touch and richer flavor, making your Delicious Pecan Pie Dump Cake Recipe even more special.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free version that you like. The rest of the ingredients remain the same.
What if I don’t have cinnamon on hand?
No worries! The cinnamon is optional and just adds warmth, so your dump cake will still turn out delicious and nutty without it.
Can I prepare this dessert in advance?
You can assemble the cake a day ahead and keep it covered in the fridge, baking it fresh right before serving for the best texture and flavor.
What’s the best way to serve this dessert for a crowd?
This dump cake is perfect for feeding a group since it’s made in a 9×13 pan. Serve it warm with ice cream and watch everyone fall in love with this easy, fabulous dessert.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Delicious Pecan Pie Dump Cake Recipe a try because it strikes the perfect balance between ease and decadent flavor. It has become one of my favorite go-to desserts when I want something impressive without the hassle. Once you experience that first warm, buttery bite with the gooey pecan center and crisp cake top, you’ll see why it’s such a beloved classic. Happy baking!
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Delicious Pecan Pie Dump Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Pecan Pie Dump Cake is a delightfully easy dessert that combines the rich flavors of pecan pie with the simplicity of a dump cake. Using pecan pie filling and yellow cake mix, it’s layered and baked to golden perfection, creating a moist, tender cake with a luscious pecan topping. Perfect for gatherings or a comforting treat, this recipe offers a warm, nutty flavor enhanced with optional cinnamon and a buttery finish.
Ingredients
Pecan Pie Layer
- 1 can (15 oz) pecan pie filling or 1 1/2 cups homemade pecan pie filling
Cake Layer
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 3 large eggs
Topping
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional, for extra warmth)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Layer Pecan Filling: Evenly spread the pecan pie filling over the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This will form the base layer of the dessert.
- Mix Cake Batter: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the yellow cake mix and eggs until fully combined. The batter will be thick and sticky.
- Spread Batter Over Filling: Spread the cake batter gently and as evenly as possible over the layer of pecan pie filling. It’s okay if some filling peeks through.
- Add Butter and Toppings: Drizzle the melted unsalted butter evenly over the top of the batter. Then sprinkle with chopped pecans and cinnamon if using, adding a warm, nutty flavor and crunch.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and set in the middle. A toothpick inserted should come out with moist crumbs but no raw batter.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving. For an indulgent touch, serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Notes
- You can use store-bought pecan pie filling or homemade for a fresher taste.
- Ensure the butter is melted but not hot to avoid cooking the batter prematurely.
- Optional cinnamon adds a warm spice note that complements the pecans beautifully.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the cake mix with a gluten-free yellow cake mix.
- Best served warm; leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated gently.
