Introduction
If you love the rich, buttery sweetness of classic pecan pie but don’t want to fuss with making pie crust, this Pecan Pie Dump Cake is your new favorite dessert! It combines the gooey filling of pecan pie with the simplicity of a dump cake — no mixing bowls or fancy techniques required. Perfect for Thanksgiving, potlucks, or any time you crave a quick yet decadent treat.
Ingredients
1 can (21 oz) pecan pie filling (or homemade equivalent)
1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
1 cup chopped pecans (optional, for extra crunch)
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
½ cup brown sugar (optional, for extra caramel flavor)
1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
Pinch of salt
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the pan: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Dump the filling: Spread the pecan pie filling evenly in the bottom of the pan.
Add extras: Sprinkle chopped pecans and brown sugar (if using) over the filling.
Add cake mix: Evenly sprinkle the dry cake mix over the top — do not stir.
Pour butter: Slowly drizzle melted butter evenly over the cake mix. Try to cover as much of the dry mix as possible.
Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 40–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
Cool slightly: Let the cake rest for at least 10–15 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set.
Description
The result is a heavenly dessert that’s crispy and buttery on top with a gooey, nutty, caramel-like layer underneath. Every bite captures the taste of pecan pie with the cozy texture of a cobbler. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Tips
Use butter, not margarine: It gives a richer flavor and crispier topping.
Cover the mix evenly: Any dry cake mix spots can lead to uneven baking — pour butter slowly and evenly.
Make it ahead: You can bake this a day before and warm it up before serving.
Add bourbon: A splash (1 tbsp) of bourbon in the filling gives a Southern twist.
Variations
Chocolate Pecan Pie Dump Cake: Add ½ cup chocolate chips before baking.
Pumpkin Pecan Dump Cake: Mix 1 cup pumpkin puree with the pecan pie filling for a fall flavor.
Maple Twist: Substitute half the brown sugar with pure maple syrup.
Mini Versions: Make in ramekins for individual servings.
Correction
If your cake turns out too dry, you likely didn’t use enough butter or the filling layer was too thin. Next time, make sure the butter completely covers the cake mix and don’t overbake — the filling should be bubbly but not burnt.
Enjoy!
Serve warm, take a bite, and enjoy that buttery, nutty goodness! Perfect for cozy gatherings or when you want a quick dessert that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. 🥰🍰