Pecan Dump Cake Recipe

There's something wonderfully comforting about a warm Pecan Dump Cake fresh from the oven. This dessert combines gooey caramel-like layers, soft cake, and crunchy pecans into a treat that’s impossible to resist.

this Recipe

I first discovered this cake when looking for a quick dessert that didn't require too much hands-on time. It’s been a family favorite ever since, especially around the holidays when we crave something simple yet indulgent. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip this up in minutes and let the oven work its magic.

Why You’ll Love This Pecan Dump Cake

Get ready to fall in love with one of the easiest desserts you'll ever make. This Pecan Dump Cake is not only delicious but also checks all the boxes for a perfect weeknight or holiday treat.

First off, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. There's no need for a mixer or multiple bowls. Just "dump" the ingredients into the baking dish, layer by layer, and you're good to go. It’s perfect for those moments when you want something homemade but don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen.

The combination of flavors and textures is a standout here. The cake mix forms a soft, pillowy layer that pairs beautifully with the crunchy pecans, while the butter and brown sugar give the whole dessert a caramel-like richness that’s simply irresistible.

This recipe is also very versatile. You can adjust the nuts, add chocolate chips, or even add a layer of sweetened cream cheese to make it your own. And it’s a total crowd-pleaser – this is one dessert where you won’t have to worry about leftovers!

Whether you're making it for a holiday gathering or a quiet night at home, this Pecan Dump Cake is sure to become one of your go-to desserts.

Ingredients Notes

Each ingredient in this Pecan Dump Cake brings its own special touch, creating a dessert that’s rich, flavorful, and oh-so-easy to make.

• Yellow Cake Mix: The base of this dessert is a simple boxed yellow cake mix, which saves you time and adds just the right amount of sweetness. Feel free to use a white or spice cake mix if you prefer a different flavor profile.
• Pecans: The star ingredient, pecans add that perfect crunch and a hint of nuttiness that balances the sweetness. You can roughly chop them or keep some whole for extra texture.
• Butter: Sliced butter melts as the cake bakes, creating a rich, buttery flavor that seeps into the other ingredients. Use unsalted butter for the best results, and make sure it's cold to help it evenly distribute over the cake mix.
• Brown Sugar: A generous sprinkle of brown sugar enhances the caramel flavor and gives the cake a lovely gooey texture in the middle. Dark brown sugar will give a deeper molasses flavor, but light brown sugar works beautifully, too.
• Evaporated Milk: Adding a bit of evaporated milk gives this dump cake a smooth, creamy consistency without being too heavy. It blends with the butter and brown sugar, forming a delectable caramel-like layer as it bakes.

You'll only need a 9x13 baking dish and a spatula to spread the ingredients. With minimal cleanup and no special tools, it’s the kind of recipe that makes dessert effortless.

How to Make This Pecan Dump Cake

Creating this Pecan Dump Cake is as simple as layering ingredients and letting the oven do the rest. Here’s a step-by-step guide to make sure it comes out perfect every time.

1. Preheat your oven and prepare the baking dish: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish lightly with nonstick spray or a bit of butter.
2. Layer the ingredients: Pour the yellow cake mix into the baking dish, spreading it evenly. Scatter the pecans over the cake mix, followed by a layer of brown sugar. Don’t worry about mixing – the ingredients will bake together into layers.
3. Add the butter: Place slices of cold butter over the brown sugar layer, covering as much of the surface as possible. The butter will melt during baking and seep through the layers, creating that rich, caramelized texture.
4. Pour the evaporated milk: Drizzle evaporated milk over the entire surface, ensuring it’s distributed evenly. This will keep the cake moist and add a creamy consistency to the finished dessert.
5. Bake until golden: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling slightly at the edges. The pecans should be toasted, and the center should be set with a gooey layer underneath.

Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving, about 10 minutes. This gives the layers a chance to settle, making it easier to slice.

Storage Options

Once baked, this Pecan Dump Cake can be stored in the fridge to enjoy later. Here are a few tips for keeping it fresh.

• Refrigerate: Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the cake to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually get even better as they sit!
• Freeze: If you want to save leftovers for a longer period, slice the cake and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container, and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat a slice in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds. This will bring back some of that warm, gooey texture. If reheating a larger portion, you can warm it in a 300°F oven for 10-15 minutes.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this Pecan Dump Cake is its flexibility. Here are a few ways to make this recipe your own.

• Try Different Nuts: Substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if you prefer. Each nut adds a unique flavor, and you can even mix them for a medley of textures.
• Add Chocolate Chips: Sprinkle a handful of chocolate chips between layers for a touch of decadence. Dark chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate chips work best to balance the sweetness.
• Swap the Cake Mix: Instead of yellow cake mix, try a chocolate or spice cake mix to change up the flavors. Spice cake is especially delicious during the fall, adding a warm hint of cinnamon and nutmeg.
• Incorporate Coconut: Add a sprinkle of shredded coconut to the top before baking for a tropical twist. It toasts up beautifully and adds a little extra sweetness.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cake mix if you’re accommodating dietary needs. Most gluten-free mixes work well in this recipe with no other adjustments needed.

Experiment with your favorite ingredients and make this dessert your own. This Pecan Dump Cake is all about easy customization, so feel free to get creative!

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