Save Sweet and dreamy Pecan Pie Dump Cake is a no-fuss spin on two classic desserts that never fails to impress at potlucks or family Sunday suppers. With rich caramel pecan filling, a buttery cake top, and almost zero hands-on time, it is perfect when you crave comforting Southern flavor without getting out the rolling pin.
The first time I baked this cake, everyone thought I spent hours in the kitchen, but it is honestly the easiest dessert in my regular rotation.
Ingredients
- Pecan pie filling: Adds that signature gooey caramel richness Use canned for ease or homemade for a personal touch Look for filling with visible whole pecans for the best texture
- Yellow cake mix: Bakes into a golden crumbly crust Choose a trusted brand with buttery flavor and avoid extra moist versions
- Large eggs: Help the layers set and provide a custard feel Use fresh eggs for a richer texture
- Melted butter: Sends that top nice and crisp Opt for real butter and let it cool slightly so it spreads evenly
- Chopped pecans: Bring crunch and nutty depth Toasting pecans first gives them even more flavor
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the cake with aroma Try pure vanilla for best taste
- Salt: Balances the deep sweetness Use a fine salt for even seasoning
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream: Takes this treat over the top Go for high-quality ice cream if serving a la mode
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Grease a 9 by 13 inch baking pan thoroughly with butter or spray Make sure to cover the corners to prevent sticking
- Layer the Pecan Pie Filling:
- Pour all of the pecan pie filling evenly across the bottom of the pan Use a spatula to smooth it out and create an even layer
- Mix the Custard:
- In a medium bowl beat the eggs together with vanilla and salt for about one minute Mixture should look pale and slightly frothy Pour this custard right over the pecan filling everywhere
- Add the Cake Mix:
- Gently sprinkle dry yellow cake mix in an even layer covering all of the filling below Pat the cake mix lightly with clean hands but do not stir Let it remain in a distinct layer
- Top with Melted Butter:
- Drizzle the melted butter as evenly as you can over the surface of the cake mix Try to moisten as much of the dry mix as possible Small dry patches are okay
- Add Pecans:
- Scatter the chopped pecans over the whole top Press them down lightly so they stick into the buttery cake mix
- Bake:
- Place the dish in the center of the oven and bake for forty to forty five minutes Cake top should look golden brown and the filling should bubble around the edges
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the dump cake cool for at least fifteen minutes so the layers can set Serve warm with whipped cream or a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream right on top
Save Keeps moist for several days in the fridge The crunchy toasted pecans are always my favorite part and I remember sneaking extra handfuls of them off the top as a kid My grandmother used to let me help scatter them right before sliding the cake into the oven which made it extra special
Storage Tips
Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to four days Gently reheat portions in the microwave for thirty seconds to bring back that gooey texture Avoid keeping it at room temperature for more than a few hours since the filling is moist
Ingredient Substitutions
Choose a spice cake mix if you want warm cinnamon background Or swap in a gluten free yellow cake mix for the whole recipe Dairy free butter alternatives work well just keep an eye on browning Toasted walnuts or hazelnuts can stand in if you are short on pecans
Serving Suggestions
Honestly this cake is best enjoyed piping hot with a melting scoop of vanilla ice cream For parties I have cut it into squares and topped each one with a dusting of powdered sugar or a simple caramel drizzle It is just as welcome as a sweet brunch bake as it is for dessert
Save This cake tastes best warm and is guaranteed to disappear at any gathering. Share it at the holidays or surprise your family with a cozy weeknight dessert!
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I use homemade pecan pie filling?
Yes, homemade pecan pie filling works beautifully and lets you control sweetness and texture.
- → What’s the benefit of using cake mix?
Boxed yellow cake mix provides easy assembly and a fluffy, buttery topping with minimal effort.
- → How do I know when it’s done baking?
The top should be golden and the edges bubbling. A toothpick inserted near the center should come out clean.
- → Can other nuts be used instead of pecans?
Walnuts or almonds can be substituted, but pecans offer traditional flavor and texture.
- → Is it best served warm or cold?
Serving warm enhances the gooey texture and flavors, especially with ice cream or whipped cream.