Pecan Dump Cake Recipe

There's nothing quite like the simplicity and deliciousness of a Pecan Dump Cake. With buttery pecans, warm, gooey filling, and a golden, crumbly cake topping, this dessert is perfect for any occasion. The best part? You won’t need any fancy skills to whip this up—just dump, bake, and enjoy.

I first discovered this recipe during a holiday potluck, where it quickly stole the show among an array of desserts. Since then, it’s been my go-to treat whenever I need a no-fuss dessert that still impresses. Ready to dive in and make this magic for yourself?

Why You'll Love This Pecan Dump Cake

Get ready to add this Pecan Dump Cake to your dessert rotation. It’s a crowd-pleaser with its sweet, nutty crunch and effortless preparation.

First of all, the ease of this recipe is unbeatable. True to its name, you just “dump” all the ingredients into a baking dish, layer by layer, and let the oven do the work. No mixing bowls, no stress—just a quick dessert you can prep in under 10 minutes.

Secondly, the flavors are out of this world. Rich, buttery pecans combine with sweet, caramel-like cake, forming the perfect blend of textures. The crunchy topping beautifully contrasts the soft, gooey filling, making each bite irresistibly satisfying.

Not to mention, this dessert is a hit at any gathering. Whether it’s a family dinner, holiday party, or casual potluck, you can count on empty plates and people asking for the recipe.

Finally, it's incredibly customizable. You can play around with different fillings and toppings to keep things exciting, which I’ll share more about later on.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Pecan Dump Cake lies in its simple ingredients. Each one serves a crucial role in creating a perfectly balanced dessert.

• Pecan Pie Filling: This is the heart of your dump cake, providing that warm, gooey sweetness we all love. If you can’t find pecan pie filling, you can use a mix of chopped pecans, brown sugar, and corn syrup as a homemade alternative.
• Yellow Cake Mix: The boxed cake mix is what makes this recipe so convenient. It creates a perfectly fluffy yet crumbly topping. Feel free to experiment with different flavors like butter pecan or spice cake for a twist.
• Chopped Pecans: These add a delightful crunch and enhance the nutty flavor. Toast them briefly in a dry pan before adding them to the cake for an extra depth of flavor.
• Unsalted Butter: Sliced thin and evenly distributed over the cake mix, butter is the magic ingredient that transforms the dry mix into a golden, crispy topping. Make sure to use real butter, not margarine, for the best results.
• Vanilla Extract (optional): While not necessary, a splash of vanilla adds a touch of warmth and brings out the flavors of the pecan filling.

Special Equipment: You’ll need a 9x13-inch baking dish to accommodate all the layers and ensure even cooking.

How To Make This Pecan Dump Cake

Making a Pecan Dump Cake is as easy as it gets. Here’s how to do it, step by step.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9x13-inch baking dish with a light coating of nonstick spray. This will help prevent sticking and make serving easier.
2. Layer the pecan pie filling. Spread it evenly across the bottom of the baking dish. If you’re making your own filling, mix the chopped pecans with brown sugar and corn syrup, then pour it in.
3. Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over the pecan filling, spreading it out in an even layer. Don’t worry about mixing; it will come together beautifully as it bakes.
4. Distribute the sliced butter over the cake mix. Make sure the slices are evenly spaced so the entire top layer gets golden and crispy. As the butter melts, it will transform the dry mix into a delectable, crumbly crust.
5. Add the chopped pecans on top for extra crunch. This step is optional, but I highly recommend it for a more robust flavor and texture.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes. The cake is ready when the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. Let it cool for about 15 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set.

This entire dessert comes together in about an hour, and the smell of toasted pecans and buttery cake will fill your kitchen.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (though that’s rare!), storing your Pecan Dump Cake is simple.

• Room Temperature: You can keep the cake covered at room temperature for up to two days. It’s best stored in an airtight container or tightly wrapped with plastic wrap.
• Refrigerator: For a longer shelf life, refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to five days. The cool temperature keeps the filling from becoming too sticky and helps maintain the cake’s texture.
• Freezer: To store for an extended period, place the cake in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge when ready to enjoy.

When reheating, use the oven at 350°F to crisp up the topping again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the crust soggy.

Variations and Substitutions

This Pecan Dump Cake is as versatile as it is tasty, and there are plenty of ways to make it your own.

• Different Fillings: Swap out the pecan pie filling for other pie fillings like apple, cherry, or pumpkin. Each variation gives a unique twist while keeping the same dump-and-bake method.
• Cake Mix Flavors: Experiment with different cake mix flavors. Spice cake adds a warm, autumnal flavor, while chocolate cake mix paired with pecan filling creates a decadent dessert.
• Nut-Free Option: If you need a nut-free version, replace the pecan filling with a fruit filling and skip the chopped pecans. It will still be delicious, just with a different flavor profile.
• Add Chocolate Chips: For a touch of indulgence, sprinkle chocolate chips over the pecan filling before adding the cake mix. They’ll melt into the gooey layers, adding an extra burst of sweetness.
• Bourbon Twist: Add a splash of bourbon to the pecan filling for a boozy kick. It complements the nutty flavors and gives the dessert a rich, Southern flair.

This recipe invites creativity, so don’t be afraid to experiment. You never know—you might just stumble upon your new favorite version!

Enjoy your Pecan Dump Cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Trust me, this dessert will quickly become a staple in your kitchen!

Print