Pecan Pie Dump Cake

I was strolling through the farmers’ market with no plan in mind when a basket of freshly shelled pecans caught my attention.

The vendor was handing out samples, and after one bite of their toasty, buttery flavor, I knew I had to take some home. Right then, I started thinking about turning them into a warm, caramel-drizzled dessert.

When I got home, the idea hit me—combine the rich flavors of pecan pie with the ease of a dump cake. I knew it would be a hit, and with just a handful of ingredients, it quickly became a favorite in my house. The best part? The whole thing comes together with minimal effort and delivers maximum flavor.

Short Description

A delightful blend of gooey caramel, crunchy pecans, and buttery cake mix, this Pecan Pie Dump Cake offers the rich flavors of traditional pecan pie with the ease of a dump cake. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s simple to make and impossible to resist.

Key Ingredients

Pecan Mixture:

• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 cup caramel topping
• 1/2 cup salted caramel topping
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3 cups pecans

Cake Topping:

• 1 box Butter Pecan Cake Mix (or White Cake Mix)
• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted

Tools Needed

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Oven

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Pecan Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the lightly beaten eggs, brown sugar, caramel topping, salted caramel topping, and melted unsalted butter. Stir until well combined. Fold in the pecans, ensuring they’re evenly coated.

Step 3: Assemble the Layers
Pour the pecan mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the dry cake mix over the pecan layer, ensuring full coverage. Drizzle the melted unsalted butter over the cake mix, covering as much surface area as possible.

Step 4: Bake the Cake
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.

Step 5: Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool for at least 20 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ease of Preparation: Minimal steps and simple ingredients make this a go-to dessert for any occasion.

Rich Flavor: Combines the classic taste of pecan pie with the soft texture of cake.

Versatility: Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or a cozy night in.

Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by both kids and adults alike.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be prepared in advance and stored for later enjoyment.

Mistakes to Avoid & Solutions

1. Uneven Butter Distribution

Mistake: Pouring melted butter unevenly can lead to dry spots in the cake.

Solution: Drizzle butter slowly and evenly over the entire surface, or use a spoon to spread it uniformly.

2. Overmixing the Layers

Mistake: Stirring the layers together can disrupt the texture.

Solution: Layer ingredients as instructed without mixing to maintain distinct textures.

3. Underbaking

Mistake: Removing the cake too early can result in a soggy center.

Solution: Ensure the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling before removing from the oven.

4. Using Cold Ingredients

Mistake: Cold ingredients can affect the baking process.

Solution: Allow ingredients like eggs and butter to reach room temperature before use.

5. Skipping the Cooling Time

Mistake: Serving immediately can cause the cake to fall apart.

Solution: Let the cake cool for at least 20 minutes to set properly.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Serving Styles:

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic touch.

Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor.

Drizzle with extra caramel sauce for an indulgent treat.

Pairings:

Enjoy with a cup of hot coffee or tea.

Pair with a glass of dessert wine or bourbon for a sophisticated twist.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing: Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave individual servings for 30 seconds.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cake mix flavor?
Yes, white, yellow, or even spice cake mix can work. Butter Pecan adds depth, but feel free to switch it up.

2. Can I use chopped pecans instead of whole?
Absolutely. Chopped pecans distribute more evenly and offer a great texture.

3. Do I need both caramel toppings?
The two types add balance, but if you only have one, just add a pinch of sea salt to plain caramel.

4. How do I make it less sweet?
Reduce the caramel by 1/4 cup and use a cake mix with less sugar. Also, try unsweetened whipped cream as a topping.

5. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare it a day in advance and warm it up just before serving. The flavor deepens overnight.

Tips & Tricks

– Lightly toast the pecans before adding for extra crunch and nuttiness.

Use parchment paper under the mixture if you want easy cleanup.

– Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for holiday flair.

– Sprinkle sea salt on top before baking for contrast.

– Serve in ramekins for individual desserts.

Recipe Variations

Chocolate Chip Twist
Add 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips to the pecan mixture before baking. The melted chocolate adds richness and complements the caramel.

Maple Bourbon Version
Replace 1/4 cup of the caramel topping with pure maple syrup and add 1 tablespoon bourbon to the mix. The result is smoky, bold, and perfect for fall.

Apple-Pecan Mashup
Layer thin apple slices on top of the pecan mixture before adding the cake mix. Adds texture and tartness that cuts through the sweetness.

Gluten-Free Option
Use a gluten-free cake mix and ensure your caramel toppings are certified gluten-free.

Nut-Free Alternative
Swap pecans with crushed pretzels or coconut flakes for a crunch without nuts. Reduce caramel slightly to avoid overwhelming sweetness.

Final Thoughts

After baking this Pecan Pie Dump Cake, it’s clear why it’s become such a go-to recipe in my kitchen. It’s easy to make, yet impressively delicious, and always a crowd-pleaser. The buttery cake base, the crunchy pecans, and the caramel topping all blend together perfectly, creating a dessert that tastes like it took hours to prepare.

It’s a great treat for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy family dinner, a holiday celebration, or a potluck with friends. Plus, it’s a dessert that can be enjoyed by everyone, from baking beginners to seasoned pros. Every time I make it, I’m reminded that sometimes the simplest recipes are the ones that bring the most joy.