Pecan Dump Cake Recipe

There’s something magical about the simplicity of a Pecan Dump Cake. With just a handful of ingredients, this cake fills your kitchen with a warm, nutty aroma as it bakes, drawing everyone in for a slice. Perfect for last-minute gatherings, this dessert comes together quickly and brings out the comforting flavors of butter, pecans, and warm spices.

this Recipe

I discovered this recipe years ago, looking for an easy fall dessert that could feed a crowd without the hassle of mixing bowls and complicated steps. Ever since, it’s been a go-to for cozy family dinners and potlucks, where it’s always a hit. Let's dive into why this dessert is so loved!

Why You’ll Love This Pecan Dump Cake

Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite quick dessert! This Pecan Dump Cake combines rich flavors with an effortless preparation that makes it ideal for any occasion.

First, there’s no need for fancy equipment or multiple steps. True to its name, you simply “dump” the ingredients into a baking dish and let the oven do the work. It's one of the easiest desserts you’ll ever make – perfect for bakers of all skill levels!

The pecans add a delightful crunch, balancing out the sweetness of the cake mix and the buttery filling. Each bite offers a satisfying texture and a burst of nutty flavor that’s perfect for fall.

This cake also feeds a crowd, making it perfect for gatherings or potlucks. With minimal prep, it’s a stress-free way to impress your guests with a warm, delicious dessert that feels like it took hours to make.

Finally, the recipe is incredibly versatile. You can add spices, swap out ingredients, or adjust sweetness levels to suit your family’s taste preferences. It’s a forgiving dessert that’s hard to get wrong, so you can focus on enjoying the process.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Pecan Dump Cake lies in its simplicity. With just a few key ingredients, it transforms into a decadent treat that everyone will love.

Canned Pie Filling: Most traditional pecan dump cakes use canned apple pie or pumpkin pie filling as the base. This makes it easy to create a rich, flavorful layer without extra effort. Apple filling gives a tangy sweetness, while pumpkin adds a cozy, spiced note.

Yellow Cake Mix: This provides the classic cake flavor that’s both sweet and mild. It absorbs the buttery topping, creating a moist and delicious base. You could also use spice cake mix for extra warmth.

Pecans: The star of this dessert! They toast beautifully on top, giving each bite a satisfying crunch. Whole or chopped pecans work well, depending on how much texture you want.

Butter: Melted butter brings everything together, adding richness to each layer. Pouring the butter evenly ensures that every corner of the cake bakes to a perfect, golden brown.

Optional Spices and Extras: A sprinkle of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves can add extra warmth, making it even more seasonal. And if you like a little more crunch, try adding crushed graham crackers or oats on top.

No special equipment is required for this recipe – just a 9x13 baking dish and a reliable oven.

How To Make This Pecan Dump Cake

Creating this mouthwatering Pecan Dump Cake is as simple as layering ingredients and letting your oven do the hard work.

Prepare the Oven and Dish: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 baking dish to prevent any sticking.

Add the Pie Filling: Open your canned pie filling and spread it evenly along the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This layer acts as the base and infuses the cake with a delicious fruit or spiced flavor.

Sprinkle the Cake Mix: Take your yellow cake mix and evenly sprinkle it over the layer of pie filling. Make sure to cover the entire surface so that each slice has a bit of cake.

Add the Pecans: Scatter the pecans generously across the cake mix layer. This way, the pecans toast as the cake bakes, adding both flavor and crunch.

Pour the Melted Butter: Melt your butter and slowly drizzle it over the top of the entire dish. Try to pour it as evenly as possible so every section gets buttery goodness, ensuring a golden, crispy topping.

Bake to Perfection: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Let it cool slightly before serving, but it’s best enjoyed warm!

This entire process takes less than an hour, from prep to finish. The result? A warm, gooey dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Storage Options

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, this Pecan Dump Cake stores beautifully! Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Refrigeration: After the cake has cooled, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days, and the flavors deepen over time.

Freezing: You can freeze dump cake for longer storage. Cut it into individual portions, wrap each in plastic, then foil, and place in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To reheat, warm individual servings in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, or place the entire dish (covered with foil) in a 325°F oven for 15-20 minutes.

Variations and Substitutions

This Pecan Dump Cake is incredibly versatile, and there are endless ways to make it your own! Here are a few ideas to inspire you:

Change the Filling: Try different canned fillings, like cherry, blueberry, or peach, for a fresh twist. Each fruit brings a unique flavor profile, so have fun experimenting!

Add Spices: If you’re using a plain yellow cake mix, add a teaspoon of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice to the mix for a warm, spiced flavor.

Switch Up the Nuts: While pecans are traditional, you could use walnuts or almonds for a different crunch and flavor.

Make It a Chocolate Treat: Use a chocolate cake mix for a richer, dessert-like cake. The chocolate pairs wonderfully with pecans and adds an unexpected twist.

Add a Drizzle: Serve warm slices with a drizzle of caramel or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra-special treat.

This Pecan Dump Cake encourages creativity, so feel free to try new ingredients and make it your own!

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