Pie Cake Recipe By MASTER COOK RECIPES

Pecan Pie Dump Cake

 

Easy Pecan Pie Dump Cake Recipe

By CookingMaster by Carmine – 

Total Time: About 1 hour 10 minutes (10 min prep + 60 min bake)

If you're searching for the ultimate easy pecan pie dump cake recipe, look no further! This pecan pie dump cake combines all the rich, nutty, caramel-like flavors of a classic pecan pie with the effortless "dump and bake" method that makes dump cakes so incredibly popular. No pie crust to roll, no complicated custard to cook on the stovetop – just layer, pour, and let your oven do the magic. This gooey pecan pie dump cake is perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, potlucks, or anytime you crave that irresistible southern pecan pie taste in a fraction of the time.

This easy dump cake recipe delivers a crunchy buttery topping, a luscious sticky filling loaded with chopped pecans, and that signature sweetness from corn syrup and sweetened condensed milk. It's a crowd-pleasing holiday dessert that's beginner-friendly yet tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. With just a handful of pantry staples, you'll have a decadent pecan dessert that's simple to make, budget-friendly, and absolutely addictive.

Why This Pecan Pie Dump Cake is a Game-Changer

Dump cakes have been a beloved easy dessert idea for decades because they require minimal effort – literally "dumping" ingredients into a pan! This version takes inspiration from traditional pecan pie recipes but swaps the fussy pie dough for a box of yellow cake mix, creating a hybrid that's part cobbler, part cake, and all delicious.

People love this pecan pie dump cake with cake mix because:

• Super simple preparation: Under 10 minutes of hands-on time.
• Rich pecan pie flavor: Sweetened condensed milk and corn syrup create that iconic gooey, caramelized filling.
• Crunchy pecans everywhere: Chopped pecans toast beautifully as they bake, releasing their nutty aroma.
• Versatile for any occasion: Serve warm with ice cream for a cozy fall treat or at room temperature for parties.
• Make-ahead friendly: Tastes even better the next day as flavors meld.

Whether you're a seasoned baker or new to easy baking recipes, this best pecan pie dump cake will become your go-to. It's forgiving, customizable, and always gets rave reviews!

Ingredients for the Best Pecan Pie Dump Cake

This recipe serves 12-15 people and uses a standard 9x13-inch baking dish. Here's everything you'll need for this delicious pecan pie dump cake:

• 1 cup chopped pecans – The star of the show! Use fresh pecans for the best flavor and crunch. Toasting them lightly beforehand (optional) enhances their nuttiness.
• 1 can (15 oz) sweetened condensed milk – Adds creamy richness and helps create that custard-like pecan pie filling.
• 1 cup light or dark corn syrup – Light for milder sweetness, dark for deeper molasses notes – both work wonderfully in this traditional pecan pie-inspired dump cake.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted – Incorporated into the filling for extra buttery goodness.
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – Elevates the flavor profile with warm, aromatic notes.
• 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix – The easy shortcut that forms a golden, cake-like topping. Butter pecan or vanilla cake mix are great alternatives!
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, sliced into thin pats – Placed on top for that signature dump cake crispiness.
• 1 cup water – Helps the cake mix hydrate and turn into a soft, cakey layer without stirring.

Optional add-ins for extra flair:

• A pinch of salt or cinnamon in the filling for warmth.
• Chocolate chips sprinkled on top for a turtle-inspired twist.
• Bourbon (1-2 tablespoons) in the filling for a boozy adult version.

These simple ingredients come together to mimic homemade pecan pie but with way less work. Stock up on pecans during holiday sales – this recipe is worth making again and again!

Step-by-Step Directions for Perfect Pecan Pie Dump Cake

Follow these easy steps for foolproof results every time. The key to dump cakes is not stirring the layers – the magic happens in the oven!

1. Preheat and prep: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray. This prevents sticking and adds extra flavor.
2. Layer the pecans: Spread the 1 cup chopped pecans evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This creates a nutty base that will bubble up through the filling as it bakes, infusing every bite with pecan goodness.
3. Mix the gooey filling: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, corn syrup, 1/2 cup melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and fully combined. This luscious mixture is what gives your dump cake that authentic pecan pie filling taste – sweet, sticky, and irresistible.
4. Pour the filling: Gently pour the condensed milk mixture over the chopped pecans in the baking dish. Spread it out evenly if needed, but don't worry about perfection.
5. Add the cake mix: Sprinkle the entire box of dry yellow cake mix evenly over the wet filling layer. Use a fork to lightly spread it if there are any clumps – cover the surface completely for an even topping.
6. Top with butter pats: Slice the remaining 1/2 cup butter into thin pats and place them evenly across the top of the dry cake mix. This is crucial for creating those golden, buttery crispy edges that make dump cakes so addictive.
7. Pour the water: Carefully and slowly pour the 1 cup water over the entire surface. Pour from a height to distribute evenly, or use a spoon to drizzle. The water will seep down, hydrating the cake mix without needing to stir.
8. Bake to perfection: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown, the edges are bubbly, and the center is set (it may jiggle slightly but will firm up as it cools). Rotate the dish halfway through for even baking if your oven has hot spots.
9. Cool and serve: Remove from the oven and let the pecan pie dump cake cool for at least 20-30 minutes. This allows the filling to thicken into that perfect gooey consistency. Serve warm for the ultimate experience!

Pro Tip: If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil for the last 10-15 minutes.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This gooey pecan pie dump cake is heavenly on its own, but elevate it with:

• A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream melting into the warm cake.
• Whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce.
• Fresh berries for a pop of tartness.
• Coffee or hot cocoa – perfect for holiday mornings or dessert tables.

It serves beautifully straight from the pan – no need for fancy plating!

Tips, Tricks, and Variations for the Ultimate Pecan Pie Dump Cake

• Make it ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Add 5-10 extra minutes to baking time if baking cold.
• Storage: Cover leftovers and store at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for 5-7 days. Reheat slices in the microwave for that fresh-baked warmth.
• Freezer-friendly: Bake, cool completely, then freeze slices wrapped in plastic and foil for up to 3 months.
• Variations:
  • Chocolate Pecan Pie Dump Cake: Add 1/2 cup chocolate chips on top of the cake mix.
  • Spiced Version: Mix cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice into the dry cake mix.
  • Nut-Free? Not recommended – pecans are essential for authentic flavor!
  • Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free yellow cake mix.

Common questions answered:

• Why add water? It transforms the dry cake mix into a soft, cakey layer without mixing.
• Can I use eggs? No need – the sweetened condensed milk provides structure.
• Too sweet? Opt for light corn syrup and reduce by 1/4 cup if preferred.

This easy pecan pie dump cake recipe has been a staple in Southern kitchens for years, and once you try it, you'll understand why. From Cooking Master Recipes, we guarantee this will be your new favorite holiday baking recipe!

Total Time: About 1 hour 10 minutes (10 min prep + 60 min bake) Servings: 12-15 Calories per serving: Approximately 450 (indulgent but worth it!)

Enjoy baking this incredible pecan pie dump cake – your family and friends will be begging for the recipe! If you make it, share your photos and tag Cooking Master Recipes. Happy baking!