Easy Fall Dessert • Buttery • Gooey • Loaded with Pecans
This Pecan Pie Dump Cake combines the rich, caramel-like flavor of pecan pie with the soft, buttery texture of yellow cake. Packed with crunchy pecans and topped with a golden crust, it’s an easy crowd-pleasing dessert for Thanksgiving, autumn gatherings, or any special occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 box (about 15.25 oz / 432 g) yellow cake mix
- 1 cup (120 g) chopped pecans
- 1 cup (227 g) unsalted butter, melted
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup (220 g) packed brown sugar
- 1 cup (240 ml) light corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup pecan halves, for topping (optional)
The photo lists the cake mix, chopped pecans, butter, and eggs. The additional brown sugar, corn syrup, vanilla, and salt create the classic gooey pecan-pie filling.
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Heat to 175°C (350°F). Grease a 9 × 13-inch (23 × 33 cm) baking dish.
- Prepare the pecan filling: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, brown sugar, corn syrup, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
- Add the pecans: Stir in the chopped pecans and about half of the melted butter.
- Layer the cake mix: Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the prepared baking dish.
- Add the filling: Pour the pecan mixture evenly over the cake mix. Drizzle the remaining melted butter over the top, covering as much of the dry mix as possible.
- Decorate: Arrange pecan halves over the top if desired.
- Bake: Bake for 45–55 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the center is mostly set. If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil.
- Cool and serve: Let the cake rest for at least 20–30 minutes before slicing so the gooey filling can settle.
Nutrition Information
Estimated per serving, based on 15 servings
| Nutrient | Approximate amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450–550 |
| Protein | 4–6 g |
| Carbohydrates | 50–65 g |
| Fat | 25–32 g |
| Fiber | 1–3 g |
| Sugar | 35–45 g |
Values vary with the cake mix and exact ingredient quantities.
Tips for the Best Pecan Pie Dump Cake
- Use room-temperature eggs for easier mixing.
- Spread the butter evenly over the dry cake mix to help prevent dry patches.
- Toast the pecans lightly beforehand for a deeper, nuttier flavor.
- Let it rest before serving so the filling thickens slightly.
- Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Nut and Allergy Information
- Tree nuts: Contains pecans. Do not serve to anyone with a pecan or relevant tree-nut allergy.
- Dairy: Contains butter; cake mix may contain milk ingredients.
- Eggs: Contains eggs.
- Gluten: Standard yellow cake mix contains wheat.
- Soy: Some commercial cake mixes may contain soy ingredients.
For anyone with allergies, check all product labels and avoid cross-contact during preparation.
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
Q1: Why is it called a dump cake?
Because the ingredients are layered or poured into the baking dish with minimal mixing, making preparation quick and simple.
Q2: Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes. Bake it a day ahead, cool completely, cover, and refrigerate. Warm individual portions before serving.
Q3: How should I store leftovers?
Because this version contains an egg-based filling, refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours. Enjoy within 3–4 days.
Q4: Can I freeze pecan pie dump cake?
Yes. Freeze cooled portions in airtight, freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
Q5: Can I use a different cake mix?
Yes. Butter pecan or spice cake mix can work beautifully, although the flavor and sweetness will change.
Q6: How do I know when it’s done?
The edges should be set and the top golden. The center can remain slightly soft, but it should not be liquid or raw. If checking with a thermometer, the egg-based filling should reach a safe temperature of 71°C (160°F).
Q7: Can I reduce the sweetness?
You can reduce the brown sugar slightly, but the corn syrup and cake mix also contribute sweetness. Changing the filling proportions may affect the texture.
Q8: What goes well with this cake?
Vanilla ice cream, lightly sweetened whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce pairs wonderfully with the warm pecan filling.
Enjoy this gooey, buttery Pecan Pie Dump Cake—a simple fall dessert that tastes like pecan pie meets homemade cake! 🍂🥧
