Pecan Dump Cake Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the rich, buttery flavor of a Pecan Dump Cake to satisfy that craving for something sweet and indulgent. This easy-to-make dessert is a dream come true for busy bakers, bringing together layers of tender cake, crunchy pecans, and a caramel-like filling—all with minimal prep time.

The first time I made this, it was a spur-of-the-moment decision for a family gathering, and it was an instant hit. Now, it’s my go-to dessert when I need something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive into what makes this Pecan Dump Cake so special.

Why You'll Love This Pecan Dump Cake

If you’re looking for a simple yet impressive dessert, this Pecan Dump Cake has it all. Here are a few reasons why it’s bound to become a staple in your recipe collection.

First off, it's incredibly easy to make. There’s no need for a mixer, and with just a few ingredients, you can have it ready to bake in minutes. The term "dump cake" really says it all—you just dump everything into the baking dish, and the magic happens in the oven.

The flavor is absolutely irresistible. The combination of pecans, butter, and cake mix creates a rich, almost caramelized taste that’s perfectly balanced by the crunchy topping. It's like a cross between a pecan pie and a cake, which makes every bite a treat.

This recipe is also perfect for feeding a crowd. It makes a generous portion that can easily be shared with friends and family, making it ideal for potlucks, holiday dinners, or just a cozy weekend treat.

Finally, it’s incredibly versatile. You can add in chocolate chips, coconut flakes, or even switch up the cake mix flavor for a unique twist. With so many ways to make it your own, you’ll never get tired of this dessert.

Ingredients Notes

One of the best things about this Pecan Dump Cake is that it uses simple pantry ingredients you may already have on hand. Let’s take a closer look at each component and how it contributes to the deliciousness of this dessert.

• Pecans: The star of this recipe, pecans add a wonderful crunch and nutty flavor. Be sure to use chopped pecans for even distribution, so every bite has a bit of that toasty, crunchy goodness.
• Yellow Cake Mix: This is the base that brings everything together. You’ll want to use a standard box of yellow cake mix. If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping it for a spice or butter pecan mix for a flavor boost.
• Butter: Melted butter is key here, creating a golden, crispy topping. When poured over the dry ingredients, it combines with the cake mix to form a slightly chewy, caramelized crust. Use unsalted butter for the best flavor balance.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk: This rich, creamy ingredient adds sweetness and moisture. As it bakes, it creates a luscious layer that gives the cake its “dump cake” texture—somewhere between a pie filling and a cake.
• Brown Sugar: Optional but recommended, a sprinkle of brown sugar enhances the caramel notes and complements the pecans. It’s a small touch that makes a big difference.

While you won’t need any special equipment for this recipe, a 9x13-inch baking dish is essential to allow even baking and easy slicing.

How To Make This Pecan Dump Cake

Making this Pecan Dump Cake couldn’t be easier. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious dessert ready to serve in no time.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the cake bakes evenly, with a perfect golden crust by the end. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Layer the ingredients by first spreading the chopped pecans evenly across the bottom of the baking dish. This way, the pecans create a base layer that gets nice and toasty as the cake bakes.

Next, sprinkle the cake mix over the pecans. It may look unusual to leave the mix dry, but don’t worry—it will absorb moisture and bake beautifully.

Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the cake mix. Use a spatula or spoon to gently spread it if needed, ensuring the milk reaches all the edges for even sweetness throughout.

Finally, pour the melted butter evenly across the entire dish. You’ll notice it soaking into the cake mix, creating little pockets of caramelized goodness. Add a sprinkle of brown sugar on top if you’d like a little extra caramel flavor.

Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Allow it to cool slightly before serving, as the filling will thicken up as it rests.

Storage Options

Leftovers? Not a problem! Here’s how to store your Pecan Dump Cake to keep it fresh and delicious.

• Refrigerator: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or transfer the cake to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: If you have leftovers or want to make it ahead, freeze individual slices in airtight containers for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven for a few minutes.
• Reheating: This cake is best served warm. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 20 seconds or warm the entire dish in a 300°F oven until heated through.

Variations and Substitutions

This Pecan Dump Cake is delicious as is, but there are plenty of ways to customize it for even more fun flavors.

• Chocolate Lover’s Twist: Add ½ cup of chocolate chips with the pecans for a gooey chocolatey surprise in each bite.
• Coconut Pecan Delight: Sprinkle shredded coconut with the pecans for a tropical touch that pairs beautifully with the caramel notes of the cake.
• Butterscotch Swap: Substitute butterscotch chips for a richer, deeper sweetness that pairs perfectly with pecans.
• Fruit-Forward Version: Add a layer of chopped apples or a can of drained crushed pineapple on top of the pecans for a fruity addition. The fruit will soften as it bakes, creating a delicious, juicy base.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap the regular cake mix for a gluten-free version to make this dessert gluten-friendly without compromising on flavor.

No matter how you make it, this Pecan Dump Cake is a dessert you can count on to impress. Get creative, and you might just discover a new family favorite!

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