Pecan Pie Dump Cake Recipe: A Delicious Twist on the Classic Dessert
Looking for an irresistible, easy-to-make dessert for your next gathering or holiday celebration? Look no further than this Pecan Pie Dump Cake, which is an absolute crowd-pleaser! This dessert takes the rich, nutty flavors of a classic pecan pie and combines it with the simplicity of a dump cake. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, with minimal effort and ingredients!
What is Pecan Pie Dump Cake?
Pecan Pie Dump Cake is the perfect fusion of a pie and a cake. The cake mix forms a golden, buttery crust while the pecan pie filling creates a rich, gooey, and sweet center that’s packed with crunchy pecans. The beauty of this dessert is how quick and easy it is to make compared to traditional pecan pie. No need to worry about pie crusts or long baking times—just dump everything together and bake.
This recipe has become a favorite among those who want a decadent dessert with little effort, especially during the busy holiday season when time is tight but the craving for something sweet never goes away.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: No complicated steps or specialized ingredients needed. Simply layer the ingredients in a pan, and let the oven do the work.
- Sweet and Nutty: The combination of gooey pecan filling and the slightly crunchy cake layer is pure dessert perfection.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner, holiday celebration, or casual get-together, this dessert fits right in.
Ingredients for Pecan Pie Dump Cake
To make this delightful treat, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 box of yellow cake mix: The base of your dump cake, giving it the soft and fluffy texture.
- 1 cup of melted butter: Adds richness and helps the cake to crisp up.
- 1 ½ cups of pecan halves: The key ingredient for that signature nutty flavor.
- 1 can of sweetened condensed milk: Provides that sweet, gooey, and creamy filling.
- 1 cup of brown sugar: Enhances the sweetness and deep flavor.
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract: For a hint of warmth and flavor.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Layer the Ingredients: First, pour the sweetened condensed milk into the bottom of the dish. Spread it evenly. Then, sprinkle the cake mix on top, covering it completely. No need to mix! Pour the melted butter over the cake mix, ensuring it’s fully covered. Finally, sprinkle the pecans on top.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. You’ll know it’s done when it’s firm to the touch but slightly gooey in the center.
- Serve: Let the cake cool for a few minutes before serving. You can enjoy it as is or top it with whipped cream, ice cream, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra sweetness.
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overmix: Unlike traditional cake recipes, you don’t need to mix everything together. Simply layer the ingredients and let the magic happen in the oven.
- Use a Good Quality Cake Mix: Since this is a simple dessert, the cake mix is one of the main components. Go for a high-quality, name-brand mix to ensure the best flavor.
- Experiment with Nuts: If you’re not a fan of pecans, you can swap them out for walnuts or even almonds to change up the flavor profile.
Why Pecan Pie Dump Cake is Perfect for Holidays
Pecan Pie Dump Cake is perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any cozy fall or winter gathering. It’s a dessert that can easily be made in advance, leaving you more time to focus on other parts of the meal or to relax. Plus, it pairs perfectly with a cup of hot cocoa or a nice cup of coffee, making it an ideal sweet ending to a festive meal.
