Are you looking for an incredibly simple yet utterly delicious dessert that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen? Look no further than this Easy Pecan Pie Dump Cake! It’s the perfect solution for busy holidays, potlucks, or simply when a craving for something sweet and comforting strikes.
Imagine the rich, buttery, nutty goodness of a classic pecan pie combined with the ease of a cake mix – that’s exactly what this dump cake delivers. With minimal effort and just a few ingredients, you can whip up a dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds.
What Makes This Pecan Pie Dump Cake So Special?
This recipe truly lives up to its 'dump cake' name. There's no fancy mixing, no multiple bowls, and certainly no complex techniques. You simply 'dump' the ingredients into a baking dish, and let your oven do all the hard work. The result? A warm, gooey bottom layer reminiscent of pecan pie, topped with a golden, buttery cake crust that's delightfully crisp in places and tender in others.
It’s a fantastic option for:
- Holiday gatherings (Thanksgiving, Christmas) when oven space and time are precious.
- Potlucks and parties, as it feeds a crowd and travels well.
- Beginner bakers looking for a foolproof dessert.
- Anyone who loves the flavor of pecan pie but wants an easier alternative!
Key Ingredients for Success
You'll only need a handful of items to bring this decadent dessert to life:
- Pecan Pie Filling: Canned pecan pie filling is your secret weapon here, providing all the classic flavor without the fuss.
- Yellow or Butter Pecan Cake Mix: A dry cake mix forms the delicious topping. Don't add any other ingredients to the mix!
- Melted Butter: This magical ingredient seeps through the cake mix, creating that irresistible crust.
- Optional Toppings: A sprinkle of extra chopped pecans and brown sugar before baking adds texture and a touch more sweetness.
Tips for the Perfect Pecan Pie Dump Cake
While this recipe is incredibly forgiving, a few pointers will ensure your dump cake is absolutely divine:
- Do NOT Stir! This is the golden rule of dump cakes. Resist the urge to mix the layers. The distinct layers are what make this dessert so unique and delicious.
- Evenly Pour the Butter: Try to distribute the melted butter as evenly as possible over the dry cake mix. This ensures the cake mix bakes properly and forms a consistent crust.
- Serve Warm: While it's good at room temperature, this dump cake truly shines when served warm, allowing the gooey filling to be at its best.
- Toppings Galore: Don't be shy with serving suggestions! A scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce takes this dessert to the next level.
The fascinating history of pecans shows they've been enjoyed for centuries, and this recipe is a modern, easy way to celebrate their deliciousness!
Ready to make your new favorite easy dessert? Let's get baking!
FAQs
What exactly is a dump cake?
A dump cake is an incredibly easy dessert where most of the ingredients are literally 'dumped' into a baking dish without much mixing. It typically involves a fruit or pie filling base, topped with dry cake mix, and then butter, creating a delicious, gooey, and often crunchy-topped dessert.
Can I use a different flavor of cake mix for this recipe?
While yellow or butter pecan cake mix is traditionally recommended to complement the pecan pie filling, you can certainly experiment! A spice cake mix could add a wonderful warmth, or even a vanilla cake mix would work for a slightly milder flavor profile.
How should I store leftover Pecan Pie Dump Cake?
Store any leftover Pecan Pie Dump Cake tightly covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It can be enjoyed cold, or gently reheated in the microwave or oven until warm.
Is it important not to stir the ingredients when making a dump cake?
Yes, it is crucial not to stir the layers when making a dump cake! The magic of this dessert comes from the layers baking undisturbed, allowing the melted butter to seep through the dry cake mix and create a unique, streusel-like topping and a gooey, delicious bottom layer.
Easy Pecan Pie Dump Cake
- Total Time: 55-60 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This incredibly easy Pecan Pie Dump Cake combines the rich, buttery flavor of pecan pie with the simplicity of a dump cake, creating a fuss-free, delicious dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
1 (15 ounce) box yellow cake mix (or butter pecan cake mix)
1 (21 ounce) can pecan pie filling
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional, for topping)
1/4 cup brown sugar (optional, for topping)
Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, for serving (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Step 2: Pour the can of pecan pie filling evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spread it out with a spatula if needed.
Step 3: Evenly sprinkle the dry cake mix over the pecan pie filling. Do not stir.
Step 4: Pour the melted butter over the dry cake mix, trying to cover as much of the surface as possible. Do not stir.
Step 5: If desired, sprinkle the additional chopped pecans and brown sugar over the top.
Step 6: Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. A toothpick inserted into the cake topping should come out clean.
Step 7: Remove from oven and let cool for at least 15-20 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set properly.
Step 8: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, if desired.
Notes
For an extra special touch, toast the optional chopped pecans lightly in a dry skillet before sprinkling them on top for enhanced flavor. You can also add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry cake mix for more warmth.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
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