Pecan Pie Dump Cake Recipe: The Ultimate Easy Southern Dessert
If you’re a fan of classic pecan pie but want a quicker, fuss-free dessert, the pecan pie dump cake recipe is your answer. This delightful cake combines the rich, nutty flavors of pecan pie with the simplicity of a dump cake—meaning minimal prep, no rolling or crust-making, and maximum deliciousness. Whether you’re new to baking or just want a stress-free dessert for your next gathering, this pecan pie dump cake will be a showstopper.
What is a Dump Cake?
A dump cake is a dessert where you literally “dump” the ingredients into a baking dish—usually canned fruit or pie filling, cake mix, and butter—and bake it. It’s like a shortcut to layered cakes, with minimal effort and mess. The pecan pie dump cake recipe takes this idea and blends it with the iconic flavors of pecan pie, giving you a crispy, gooey, nutty cake that tastes homemade but comes together in minutes.
Why Try This Pecan Pie Dump Cake Recipe?
Traditional pecan pie involves making a crust, preparing a custard filling, and baking it carefully to get the perfect set. This dump cake version skips the crust and custard fuss but keeps all the beloved flavors: sweet, caramelized pecans with a crunchy topping and moist cake inside. It’s perfect for potlucks, holiday dinners, or whenever you want a quick homemade treat.
Ingredients for Pecan Pie Dump Cake
To make this delicious pecan pie dump cake, you’ll need:
- 1 can (21 oz) pecan pie filling (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix (dry)
- 1 cup chopped pecans (optional for extra crunch)
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, sliced thinly
- Optional: whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for serving
Step-by-Step Pecan Pie Dump Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Dump the Pecan Pie Filling
Open the can of pecan pie filling and spread it evenly across the bottom of the baking dish. This forms the rich, gooey base of your dump cake.
Step 3: Sprinkle the Cake Mix
Next, evenly sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over the pecan pie filling layer. Do not stir! The cake mix will bake into a fluffy topping.
Step 4: Add Chopped Pecans
For extra texture and flavor, sprinkle the chopped pecans over the cake mix. This step is optional but highly recommended if you love the crunch of nuts.
Step 5: Add Butter Slices
Place thin slices of cold butter evenly over the top of the cake mix and pecans. The butter melts during baking, creating a moist, crispy crust.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes. You want the top to be golden brown and bubbly, with a slightly crispy crust.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, let the cake cool for at least 15 minutes. Serve warm or at room temperature with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Tips for Perfect Pecan Pie Dump Cake
- Use fresh butter: Slicing cold butter thinly ensures it melts evenly, creating that perfect crispy top.
- Don’t mix layers: Keep the layers separate for texture contrast—the gooey bottom and cakey top.
- Add extra pecans: For a nutty crunch, add more chopped pecans or even walnuts.
- Watch baking time: Ovens vary—check the cake around 40 minutes to avoid burning.
- Try different cake mixes: For variation, use spice cake or butter pecan cake mix for deeper flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Pecan Pie Dump Cake
The beauty of this pecan pie dump cake lies in its versatility. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to balance the sweet and crunchy texture. A drizzle of caramel sauce or a dollop of freshly whipped cream elevates the dessert further. For holiday gatherings, pair it with coffee or a warm cup of spiced tea. Leftovers can be reheated in the microwave or oven for a comforting treat any time.
How to Store Pecan Pie Dump Cake
Store leftover dump cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To keep it fresh, you can cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer portions into an airtight container. Reheat individual servings in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or warm in the oven at 325°F for 10 minutes. While the texture may soften after refrigeration, reheating brings back some crispiness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Pecan Pie Dump Cake
Can I make pecan pie filling from scratch?
Yes! You can make homemade pecan pie filling using corn syrup, sugar, eggs, butter, vanilla, and chopped pecans for a more natural taste.
What if I don’t have pecans?
Walnuts or almonds can be great substitutes, but pecans give the signature flavor.
Can I use a different cake mix?
Absolutely! Spice cake, butter pecan, or even chocolate cake mix can add interesting flavor twists.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Not with regular cake mix, but gluten-free cake mixes are available if you want to make it gluten-free.
Can I freeze pecan pie dump cake?
Yes, freeze cooled cake in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Why Pecan Pie Dump Cake Is Perfect for Beginners and Busy Bakers
The pecan pie dump cake recipe is foolproof, fast, and requires minimal ingredients—perfect for beginners or anyone short on time. Unlike traditional pies that require crust rolling, blind baking, or custard preparation, this dump cake lets you enjoy classic pecan pie flavors without the hassle. It’s also a fantastic last-minute dessert for unexpected guests or potlucks.
Final Thoughts on This Pecan Pie Dump Cake Recipe
Whether you’re craving a classic southern dessert or want an easy, crowd-pleasing cake, this pecan pie dump cake recipe is sure to satisfy. The combination of buttery cake, sweet pecan filling, and crunchy nuts makes it irresistible. Give this simple recipe a try and watch it become a family favorite!
