Pecan Pie Dump Cake 🥧🍂
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No Mixing Required : Just layer the ingredients—no bowls, no mess!
- Classic Pecan Pie Flavor : All the nutty, caramel goodness without the hassle of making pie crust.
- Crowd-Pleasing : A guaranteed hit at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any gathering.
- Customizable : Add chocolate chips, bourbon, or spices for extra flair.
- Make-Ahead Friendly : Prep ahead and bake when ready—perfect for stress-free entertaining.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Serves 8–10
- 1 box yellow cake mix (store-bought, about 15–18 oz)
- 1 cup chopped pecans (plus extra for garnish, if desired)
- 1 can (15 oz) dark corn syrup
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter , melted
- 3 large eggs , beaten
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Optional : 1/2 cup chocolate chips or a splash of bourbon for added flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) . Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or spray it with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Layer the Ingredients
- Spread the dry yellow cake mix evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly over the cake mix. If using chocolate chips, sprinkle them on top of the pecans.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the dark corn syrup, melted butter, beaten eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Pour the wet mixture evenly over the cake mix and pecans. Don’t stir—it will combine as it bakes!
Step 4: Bake
- Bake for 40–45 minutes , or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out mostly clean (a little stickiness from the syrup is okay).
Step 5: Cool and Serve
- Let the dump cake cool for at least 15–20 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with extra chopped pecans or a dollop of whipped cream, if desired.
Why This Recipe Works
- Corn Syrup Magic : Dark corn syrup creates that signature sticky, caramel-like texture of pecan pie.
- Cake Mix Shortcut : The boxed cake mix eliminates the need for a crust while adding structure and sweetness.
- Pecan Crunch : Toasted pecans add a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor to every bite.
Variations to Try
- Chocolate Lovers : Stir in semisweet or dark chocolate chips for a decadent twist.
- Bourbon Infusion : Add 1–2 tablespoons of bourbon to the wet mixture for a boozy kick.
- Spiced Version : Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or pumpkin spice for a warm, cozy flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option : Use gluten-free yellow cake mix for a GF-friendly version.
- Vegan Version : Substitute plant-based butter, eggs, and cake mix for a vegan alternative.
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overmix : The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity—just pour and bake!
- Toasted Pecans : Toast the pecans beforehand for an extra layer of flavor.
- Storage : Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for longer storage.
Serving Suggestions
- Romantic Touch : Serve warm slices with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for elegance.
- Brunch Staple : Pair with coffee, tea, or fresh fruit for a complete meal.
- Party Platter : Serve alongside other desserts like brownies, cookies, or fruit tarts for variety.
Final Thoughts
This Pecan Pie Dump Cake is a celebration of rich textures, bold flavors, and effortless indulgence, offering a dessert that feels luxurious yet approachable. With its customizable options, endless charm, and ease of preparation, it’s a recipe that’s sure to impress whether you’re cooking for a special occasion, a casual snack, or simply craving something satisfying.
Your Turn! Have you ever made dump cakes or experimented with easy dessert recipes? Share your favorite variations or serving ideas below. 🍂