If you’re craving a dessert that feels like a warm hug from the inside out, this Pecan Pie Dump Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining the gooey goodness of pecan pie filling with the simplicity of a yellow cake mix, it’s a fuss-free way to capture all those rich, buttery pecan flavors in one decadent slice. The magic of this recipe is how effortlessly it comes together, with layers that meld into a perfectly textured dessert that everyone will ask for again and again. Whether you’re whipping it up for a holiday, a weeknight treat, or any special occasion, it brings that comforting, festive vibe every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Pecan Pie Dump Cake Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients—each chosen to create the perfect balance of sweetness, crunch, and richness. These pantry staples come together seamlessly, delivering a melt-in-your-mouth experience without any complicated steps.
- Pecan pie filling (1 can, 15 ounces): The luscious, nutty base packed with caramelized pecans that gives this dessert its iconic flavor and texture.
- Evaporated milk (1 can, 12 ounces): Adds creaminess and helps blend the filling into a custard-like consistency.
- Large eggs (3): Provide structure and richness, keeping the cake moist and tender.
- Yellow cake mix (1 box, 15.25 ounces): Acts as a fluffy, sweet topping that crisps up beautifully during baking.
- Chopped pecans (1 cup): Sprinkled on top for extra crunch and that irresistible toasted nut aroma.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted): Drizzled over the cake mix to create a golden, buttery crust with every bite.
- Ground cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon, optional): Adds subtle warmth and depth, perfect if you want to amp up the cozy vibes.
- Nonstick cooking spray: Ensures easy cleanup and prevents sticking for a flawless cake.
How to Make Pecan Pie Dump Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F and generously spraying a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. This simple prep step guarantees your dump cake will slide out smoothly and maintain its beautiful shape.
Step 2: Mix the Pecan Pie Filling
In a large bowl, whisk together the pecan pie filling, evaporated milk, and eggs until the mixture is silky and uniform. This blend forms the luscious custardy layer that’s the heart of the Pecan Pie Dump Cake Recipe.
Step 3: Assemble the Layers
Pour the pecan pie mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly across the top—be careful not to stir or mix it into the liquid. This layering is key to getting that signature “dump cake” texture.
Step 4: Add Nuts and Butter
Scatter the chopped pecans evenly over the dry cake mix. Then, drizzle the melted butter all over the surface, making sure to cover as much area as possible—it’s what gives the topping its irresistible golden crispiness. If you want an extra hint of spice, sprinkle cinnamon lightly over the top.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake your dump cake in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes. You’re looking for a beautifully golden top and bubbly edges to signal it is perfectly cooked. Once out of the oven, let it cool for at least 15 to 20 minutes, allowing the layers to set for clean slices and enhanced flavor.
How to Serve Pecan Pie Dump Cake Recipe
Garnishes
This pecan pie dump cake is delightful on its own, but for an extra-special touch, serve with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream. A light dusting of powdered sugar and an extra sprinkle of chopped pecans can elevate the presentation beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pairing this dessert with warm spiced coffee or a glass of cold milk makes for a comforting combo. If you’re serving at a holiday meal, consider light fruit salads or fresh berries on the side to balance out the rich sweetness of the cake.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive twist, serve individual portions in small ramekins with a little scoop of ice cream on top. You can also drizzle caramel or chocolate sauce over each slice for an indulgent flourish. Garnish plates with a few toasted pecans or a sprig of mint to make your presentation pop.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your pecan pie dump cake tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days, perfect for enjoying throughout the week or bringing to a potluck.
Freezing
This recipe freezes wonderfully! Wrap cooled pieces individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 3 months, then thaw overnight in the fridge when ready to serve—it’s just as tasty as freshly baked.
Reheating
To bring out the original gooey warmth, reheat slices in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds or warm them in a 325°F oven for 10 to 15 minutes. Add fresh ice cream after warming for that irresistible touch.
FAQs
Can I use a different cake mix for this recipe?
Absolutely! While yellow cake mix is classic, you can substitute spice cake mix for a fall-inspired flavor or even butter or white cake mixes depending on your preference. Each will bring a slightly different taste and texture but still delicious results.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The traditional Pecan Pie Dump Cake Recipe uses regular cake mix which contains gluten. To make it gluten-free, look for a certified gluten-free yellow cake mix and ensure your other ingredients are gluten-free certified as well.
Can I make this vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute eggs with flax eggs or another egg replacer, use a dairy-free evaporated milk alternative, and swap the butter with a plant-based margarine. The pecan pie filling should also be checked for any animal products.
Why do I not stir the cake mix into the wet filling?
The magic of a dump cake is that you layer rather than mix the ingredients. Sprinkling the dry cake mix over the wet filling allows it to bake into a crusty topping that contrasts perfectly with the gooey pecan layer below.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Just double all ingredients and use a larger baking dish, such as two 9×13 pans or a bigger casserole dish, adjusting the baking time slightly until it’s golden and bubbly.
Final Thoughts
This Pecan Pie Dump Cake Recipe is hands-down one of the easiest and most satisfying desserts you can make. It delivers big, buttery, nutty flavor with minimal effort, making it a wonderful addition to any occasion where you want a warm and inviting dessert. Give it a try—you’ll find it quickly becomes a beloved classic in your recipe collection.
Print
Pecan Pie Dump Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Pecan Pie Dump Cake is a delightfully easy and delicious dessert that combines the rich flavors of pecan pie with a moist yellow cake topping. Simply layered and baked, it makes a perfect treat for holidays or any special occasion, offering a sweet, nutty, and buttery experience in every bite.
Ingredients
Filling
- 1 can (15 ounces) pecan pie filling
- 1 can (12 ounces) evaporated milk
- 3 large eggs
Cake Topping
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) yellow cake mix
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Other
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- Nonstick cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to ensure the cake doesn’t stick.
- Mix Pecan Filling: In a large bowl, whisk together the pecan pie filling, evaporated milk, and eggs until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Pour Filling into Dish: Pour this pecan filling mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly to create a uniform base layer.
- Add Cake Mix: Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the top of the pecan filling. Important: Do not stir or mix it in; just let it cover the surface completely.
- Top with Pecans: Evenly sprinkle the chopped pecans over the cake mix layer for added crunch and flavor.
- Drizzle Butter: Drizzle the melted unsalted butter evenly over the top, making sure to cover as much surface area as possible to help the cake bake moist and golden.
- Add Cinnamon (Optional): If desired, sprinkle the ground cinnamon over the top for a warm, spicy note.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
- Cool Before Serving: Remove from oven and allow to cool for at least 15–20 minutes. This helps the cake set for easier slicing and serving.
Notes
- This dessert is delicious served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
- You can substitute the yellow cake mix with a spice cake mix to add a cozy, fall-inspired flavor twist.
