Name: Pecan Pie Dump Cake: Easy 10-Min Dessert
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 large eggs, lightly beaten; ½ cup brown sugar, packed; 1 cup caramel topping; ½ cup salted caramel topping; ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted; 3 cups pecan halves; 1 box Butter Pecan Cake Mix (or White Cake Mix if unavailable); 1 cup unsalted butter, melted; ½ cup crushed or halved pecans; Salted caramel topping for drizzling

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Pecan pie dump cake has a way of bringing pure joy to my kitchen, and I bet it will do the same for yours! This dessert is a game-changer for anyone who loves the rich, gooey, nutty goodness of pecan pie but wants a shortcut. If you’ve ever wondered, “What is a pecan pie dump cake?”, it’s essentially a deconstructed pecan pie baked with the magic of cake mix, making it an incredibly easy pecan pie dump cake. I remember the first time I made it for a family gathering; the aroma of toasted pecans and warm caramel filled the house, and everyone was asking for seconds before they even finished their first slice. It’s so simple, yet so decadent. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Easy Pecan Pie Dump Cake

Get ready to fall in love with this dessert! Here’s why this pecan pie dump cake recipe easy is a winner:

Unbeatable Flavor: It captures all the warm, gooey, nutty goodness of traditional pecan pie.
Incredibly Quick Prep: You can have it ready for the oven in about 10 minutes – perfect for last-minute guests!
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple pantry staples and a cake mix, making it an affordable indulgence.
Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike adore this comforting, sweet treat.
Minimal Effort: The “dump and bake” method means less fuss and more enjoyment.
Versatile Dessert: This pecan pie dump cake recipe easy is fantastic for holidays, potlucks, or just a weeknight treat.
Satisfying Texture: The combination of gooey pecans, caramel, and buttery cake topping is pure bliss.

Pecan Pie Dump Cake Ingredients

Gathering your Pecan Pie Dump Cake ingredients is the first step to this incredibly easy dessert. You’ll need a few key components that come together beautifully.

2 large eggs, lightly beaten – these help bind everything together.
½ cup brown sugar, packed – adds that classic caramel sweetness.
1 cup caramel topping – this is crucial for the gooey filling.
½ cup salted caramel topping – for that perfect sweet and salty contrast.
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted – adds richness to the pecan mixture.
3 cups pecan halves – the star of the show, providing texture and nutty flavor.
1 box Butter Pecan Cake Mix (or White Cake Mix if unavailable) – this makes it a true dump cake!
1 cup unsalted butter, melted – this is mixed with the cake mix for that buttery crust.
½ cup crushed or halved pecans – for an extra pecan punch on top.
Salted caramel topping for drizzling – an optional but highly recommended garnish.

How to Make Pecan Pie Dump Cake

Follow these simple dump cake pecan pie instructions to create this delicious dessert. It’s so straightforward, you’ll wonder why you didn’t try it sooner!

Step 1: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 13×9-inch baking pan and give it a good spray with baking spray to prevent sticking. This ensures your cake comes out beautifully.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 2 large eggs until they’re lightly beaten. Then, stir in the ½ cup brown sugar, 1 cup caramel topping, ½ cup salted caramel topping, and ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted. Mix until everything is well combined and smells wonderfully sweet.
Step 3: Gently fold in the 3 cups pecan halves into the caramel mixture. Give it a good stir to ensure those lovely pecans are coated.
Step 4: Pour this gooey pecan mixture into your prepared baking pan. Spread it out evenly across the bottom, creating a luscious layer that’s the heart of this dessert.
Step 5: Now for the cake part! In a separate bowl, combine the 1 box Butter Pecan Cake Mix with the 1 cup unsalted butter, melted. Mix until it forms a crumbly texture. This is what will create that golden, buttery topping.
Step 6: Sprinkle this crumbly cake mix evenly over the pecan layer in the baking pan. Don’t press it down; just let it fall like a blanket of deliciousness.
Step 7: Bake your masterpiece for 25 to 30 minutes. You’re looking for that topping to turn a beautiful golden brown and see the edges bubbling with caramel goodness. The aroma filling your kitchen is your cue that it’s almost ready! Learning how to make pecan pie dump cake is truly this easy.

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Step 8: Once it’s out of the oven, let the Pecan Pie Dump Cake cool for about 15 to 20 minutes. This resting time is important for the gooey filling to set just right.
Step 9: Finish it off with a sprinkle of ½ cup crushed or halved pecans and a final drizzle of salted caramel topping. Enjoy your homemade treat!

Pro Tips for the Best Pecan Pie Dump Cake

Want to elevate your dump cake game? These little tricks will ensure your Pecan Pie Dump Cake is absolutely perfect every time.

For an extra layer of flavor, lightly toast your pecan halves in a dry skillet or in the oven for a few minutes before adding them to the filling. This really brings out their nutty aroma.
If you can’t find Butter Pecan cake mix, a white cake mix works beautifully, but consider adding a teaspoon of butter flavoring or a bit more melted butter to the dry mix for a similar taste profile.
Don’t overmix the cake mix and butter combination; you want a crumbly topping, not a paste. This ensures a nice, crisp texture once baked.
Allowing the dump cake to cool for at least 15 minutes after baking is crucial. This lets the gooey caramel filling set up, preventing a messy slice.

What’s the secret to perfect Pecan Pie Dump Cake?

The secret to a truly delicious pecan pie dump cake lies in using both regular and salted caramel toppings. This combination creates a wonderful balance of sweet and salty, mimicking the depth of flavor found in a traditional pecan pie. For more dessert inspiration, check out our dessert recipes.

Can I make Pecan Pie Dump Cake ahead of time?

You can assemble the Pecan Pie Dump Cake up to 24 hours in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator before baking. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s chilled.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Pecan Pie Dump Cake?

A common pitfall is over-baking, which can make the topping dry. Keep an eye on it and pull it out when it’s golden and bubbling. Also, don’t skip the cooling time; the gooey center needs to set. For tips on baking basics, you might find our article on the beauty of food helpful.

Best Ways to Serve Pecan Pie Dump Cake

This Pecan Pie Dump Cake is incredibly versatile, making it a fantastic choice for any gathering. It’s pure comfort in a pan! For a truly decadent experience, serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. The contrast of the warm, gooey cake and the cold, creamy ice cream is divine.

Another wonderful way to enjoy this dessert is with a dollop of freshly whipped cream. For holiday gatherings or special occasions, consider pairing it with a side of coffee or a warm spiced cider. This delightful pecan pie dump cake dessert is also fantastic on its own, showcasing its rich caramel and nutty flavors. If you’re looking for other simple dessert ideas, consider our easy cinnamon rolls.

Nutrition Facts for Pecan Pie Dump Cake

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information for each serving of this delightful dessert. It’s a rich treat, so a little goes a long way!

Calories: 380
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Protein: 5g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 28g
Sodium: 210mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more information on healthy eating, you can explore resources on sustainable farming practices.

How to Store and Reheat Pecan Pie Dump Cake

Properly storing your delicious Pecan Pie Dump Cake is key to keeping it tasting fresh and wonderful. After baking, allow the cake to cool completely on a wire rack. This usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes, and it’s important for the gooey filling to set so it doesn’t spill out everywhere. Once cooled, you can store it in an airtight container or cover the baking pan tightly with plastic wrap and then foil.

In the refrigerator, your leftover Pecan Pie Dump Cake will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be kept frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, you can gently warm individual slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds, or bake slices in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through. This helps maintain that delightful pecan pie dump cake moist texture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pecan Pie Dump Cake

What makes a Pecan Pie Dump Cake so easy?

The “dump” in the name says it all! This pecan pie dump cake recipe simplifies traditional pecan pie by layering ingredients directly into the pan without much mixing. You literally dump the ingredients, spread them out, and bake. It’s a foolproof way to get that classic pecan pie flavor with minimal effort, making it a truly simple pecan pie dump cake.

Can I use different nuts in my Pecan Pie Dump Cake?

Absolutely! While pecans are traditional, feel free to experiment. Walnuts are a fantastic substitute and pair wonderfully with caramel. You could also try a mix of pecans and walnuts for a more complex flavor and texture in your dump cake. For other nut-based recipes, consider our pistachio pavlova.

What kind of baking pan is best for a Pecan Pie Dump Cake?

A standard 9×13 inch baking pan is ideal for this recipe. It provides enough surface area for even baking and allows for those beautiful bubbling edges of caramel and golden cake mix. Just be sure to grease it well to prevent sticking.

How do I ensure my Pecan Pie Dump Cake is moist?

To guarantee a moist result, make sure to use the specified amount of butter with the cake mix and don’t overbake. The caramel topping and eggs also contribute significantly to the moisture of this dessert. If you find it browning too quickly, you can loosely tent it with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.

Variations of Pecan Pie Dump Cake You Can Try

This amazing dessert is so versatile, and exploring different Pecan Pie Dump Cake variations can be a lot of fun! If you’re looking to switch things up, here are a few ideas to get you started. For those who love extra crunch, consider adding even more pecan pie dump cake with pecans by mixing in some chopped pecans with the cake mix topping, or even layering some chopped nuts between the caramel and cake mix layers.

If you’re watching your sugar intake or have dietary restrictions, you can explore sugar-free cake mixes and sugar-free caramel toppings. Another fun variation is to add a teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg to the dry cake mix for a warmer, spicier flavor profile. If you’re short on time or want a different texture, you could even try this as a “slow cooker dump cake” by layering ingredients in a greased slow cooker and cooking on low for 2-3 hours, though the topping might be softer. For a different kind of sweet treat, try our berry crumble.

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