Pecan Pie Dump Cake is a delightful fusion of the classic pecan pie and the simplicity of a dump cake. With layers of gooey caramel-pecan filling topped with a buttery cake crust, this dessert offers the rich flavors of pecan pie without the hassle of making a traditional crust. It's an easy-to-make treat that's perfect for holidays, potlucks, or any time I'm craving something sweet and indulgent.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love how this recipe combines the deep, nutty flavors of pecan pie with the ease of a dump cake. It's incredibly simple to prepare—just mix, layer, and bake. The result is a dessert that's both comforting and impressive, making it a go-to for gatherings or a cozy night in. The contrast between the crunchy pecans, the gooey caramel layer, and the soft cake topping creates a texture that's absolutely irresistible.
Ingredients
(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 cup caramel topping
- ½ cup salted caramel topping
- ¼ cup melted butter
- 3 cups pecan halves
- 1 box butter pecan cake mix
- 1 cup melted butter
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray.
- In a large bowl, combine the beaten eggs, brown sugar, caramel topping, salted caramel topping, and ¼ cup melted butter. Mix until well combined.
- Fold in the pecan halves, ensuring they're evenly coated.
- Pour the pecan mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- In another bowl, mix the butter pecan cake mix with the remaining 1 cup of melted butter until the mixture is crumbly.
- Sprinkle the cake mix mixture evenly over the pecan layer in the baking dish.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
- Allow the cake to cool for about 15–20 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.
Servings and Timing
This recipe yields approximately 12 servings. The preparation time is about 10 minutes, and the baking time is 25–30 minutes, making the total time around 40 minutes.
Variations
- Nutty Twist: I sometimes add chopped walnuts or almonds along with the pecans for a different nutty flavor.
- Chocolate Lover's Version: Sprinkling chocolate chips over the pecan layer before adding the cake mix adds a delightful chocolatey touch.
- Spiced Up: Adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the pecan mixture gives the dessert a warm, spiced flavor that's perfect for fall.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: I store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, I warm individual servings in the microwave for about 20–30 seconds. For larger portions, I cover the baking dish with foil and warm it in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10–15 minutes.
FAQs
What is a dump cake?
A dump cake is a simple dessert where ingredients are "dumped" into a baking dish without mixing, typically involving a fruit or sweet filling topped with a boxed cake mix and butter, then baked until golden.
Can I use a different type of cake mix?
Yes, if I can't find butter pecan cake mix, I use yellow or white cake mix and sometimes add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon for extra flavor.
Is it necessary to use both caramel and salted caramel toppings?
Using both adds depth to the flavor, but if I only have one type, I use it exclusively. The dessert will still be delicious.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely. I often prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. I reheat it before serving to bring back the gooey texture.
Can I freeze Pecan Pie Dump Cake?
Yes, I let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. I thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
Conclusion
Pecan Pie Dump Cake is a delightful and easy-to-make dessert that brings together the rich flavors of pecan pie with the simplicity of a dump cake. It's perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to casual get-togethers. I love how it requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor, making it a favorite in my recipe collection.
Pecan Pie Dump Cake
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Pecan Pie Dump Cake is a luscious dessert that blends the rich, nutty taste of pecan pie with the effortless preparation of a dump cake, featuring gooey caramel layers and a buttery cake topping.
Ingredients
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 cup caramel topping
- ½ cup salted caramel topping
- ¼ cup melted butter
- 3 cups pecan halves
- 1 box butter pecan cake mix
- 1 cup melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray.
- In a large bowl, combine the beaten eggs, brown sugar, caramel topping, salted caramel topping, and ¼ cup melted butter. Mix until well combined.
- Fold in the pecan halves, ensuring they're evenly coated.
- Pour the pecan mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- In another bowl, mix the butter pecan cake mix with the remaining 1 cup of melted butter until the mixture is crumbly.
- Sprinkle the cake mix mixture evenly over the pecan layer in the baking dish.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
- Allow the cake to cool for about 15–20 minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can use only one type of caramel topping if needed.
- To enhance flavor, consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container; refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Can be made ahead and reheated for serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
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