Pecan Dump Cake Recipe

There's something about a warm, gooey Pecan Dump Cake that feels like pure comfort in a dish. The aroma of toasted pecans, buttery cake, and sweet caramel fills the kitchen, making it the perfect dessert for family gatherings or cozy evenings at home. This quick and easy recipe combines everything we love about pecan pie and cake, but with minimal effort and no complicated steps.

this Recipe

I first discovered this recipe on a chilly autumn night, looking for a quick dessert to surprise my family. Little did I know that this simple cake would become one of our all-time favorites. With just a few pantry staples and hardly any prep, it’s a go-to treat that anyone can make in a pinch.

Why You'll Love This Pecan Dump Cake

Get ready to fall in love with this incredibly simple and indulgent dessert. A Pecan Dump Cake is not just any cake—it's a flavorful and easy-to-make treat that captures the best flavors of fall.

First, this recipe is a one-bowl wonder. Forget mixing multiple batters or dirtying lots of dishes. You simply "dump" all the ingredients into a baking dish and let the oven work its magic. Perfect for anyone short on time!

Next, the texture is unbeatable. With a crunchy layer of pecans on top, a buttery, golden cake layer in the middle, and a soft, gooey filling underneath, every bite is a blend of delightful textures. Each spoonful gives you sweet, nutty, and buttery flavors that just melt in your mouth.

Plus, it’s ideal for gatherings. This recipe makes a large batch, making it a great choice for holiday parties, potlucks, or Sunday family dinners. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and you’re in dessert heaven.

Finally, this cake is incredibly customizable. From adding extra spices to swapping out ingredients, there are endless ways to make it your own. Keep reading to learn about some easy substitutions and flavor twists.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Pecan Dump Cake lies in its simple, delicious ingredients. You don’t need much to create this rich, flavorful dessert, but each component plays a crucial role in making it unforgettable.

• Yellow Cake Mix: The base of this dessert is a boxed yellow cake mix, which saves time while adding a classic cake flavor. Feel free to use vanilla or butter pecan cake mix if you want a slight variation!
• Canned Pumpkin or Apple Pie Filling: For the gooey layer, you can choose between canned pumpkin or apple pie filling depending on the flavor you want. Both provide a sweet, autumnal base that pairs beautifully with the pecans. Pumpkin gives a spiced richness, while apple adds a fruity, tangy element.
• Pecans: Of course, pecans are the star of the show. Their nutty, slightly sweet flavor and crunchy texture create the perfect topping. For best results, use whole pecan halves or roughly chop them, so they add both flavor and a satisfying crunch.
• Butter: Melted butter is poured over the top, creating a crispy, golden layer that’s simply irresistible. Salted or unsalted butter works here, but salted adds a hint of depth that balances the sweetness.
• Brown Sugar and Cinnamon: Sprinkling brown sugar and cinnamon on top before baking adds extra warmth and flavor. The brown sugar caramelizes as it bakes, giving the cake a slightly chewy, caramel-like crust.

No special equipment is needed! All you need is a 9x13-inch baking dish and an oven. A mixing bowl and spoon are all you need for some light stirring before baking.

How to Make This Pecan Dump Cake

Making Pecan Dump Cake is as easy as it gets. Follow these simple steps for a foolproof, irresistible dessert.

1. Prepare the Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. This will make it easier to scoop out servings without sticking.
2. Add the Filling: Spread the canned pumpkin or apple pie filling evenly over the bottom of the dish. Use a spatula to smooth it out so it covers the base entirely. If you’re using pumpkin, consider adding a sprinkle of nutmeg or ginger for extra warmth.
3. Sprinkle the Cake Mix: Evenly sprinkle the boxed yellow cake mix over the filling. Try to spread it in a single layer, ensuring it covers the entire surface of the filling for an even bake.
4. Add the Pecans and Brown Sugar: Scatter the pecan halves on top of the cake mix. Sprinkle a bit of brown sugar and cinnamon over the pecans for a caramelized, nutty flavor.
5. Pour the Butter: Melt your butter and pour it evenly across the top of the dry cake mix. The butter will seep through the ingredients as it bakes, creating a golden, crispy crust with a gooey center.
6. Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. You’ll know it’s done when the edges start to pull away from the pan, and a lovely, buttery aroma fills the kitchen.

Once done, let the cake cool for about 10 minutes before serving. The total time from start to finish is just about an hour, and the results are well worth it!

Storage Options

Storing Pecan Dump Cake is simple, making it a great option for make-ahead desserts.

• Refrigerator: Cover any leftovers with plastic wrap or transfer them to an airtight container, and store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When ready to serve, reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 20 seconds to bring back its warm, gooey texture.
• Freezer: If you want to save some for later, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm in the oven at 300°F for 10-15 minutes.
• Room Temperature: If you plan to finish the cake within a day, you can keep it covered at room temperature. The flavors meld together beautifully, so don’t be surprised if it tastes even better the next day!

Variations and Substitutions

This Pecan Dump Cake recipe is super versatile, so don’t hesitate to make it your own! Here are a few ideas to switch things up:

• Different Fillings: Try using cherry pie filling or peach pie filling instead of pumpkin or apple for a new flavor. Each one brings its own unique sweetness that pairs well with the buttery, nutty topping.
• Spice It Up: Add a dash of spices like nutmeg, ginger, or even a hint of cloves for extra warmth if you’re using pumpkin filling. These spices add a cozy depth to each bite.
• Add Chocolate Chips: For a more decadent treat, sprinkle chocolate chips over the cake mix before adding the pecans and butter. The melted chocolate adds richness and takes this cake to the next level.
• Swap the Pecans: If you’re not a fan of pecans or have a nut allergy, substitute with chopped walnuts or leave them out altogether. The cake will still be delicious, just with a softer top layer.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free cake mix to make this dessert gluten-free. Many brands offer yellow cake mixes that work just as well, so everyone can enjoy a slice.

Experiment with different combinations and flavors to create your perfect version. You might just discover a new family favorite!

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