There’s something magical about a dessert that has both the comforting richness of pecan pie and the effortless charm of a dump cake. Imagine a velvety caramel filling bubbling under a crisp, buttery topping that tempts you to dive in with a spoon. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have your family flocking like moths to a flame, eagerly awaiting that first slice.
In my house, Pecan Pie Dump Cake is more than just dessert; it’s an event. It makes appearances at family gatherings, holiday feasts, or even on those days when you just need a pick-me-up. I remember one Thanksgiving when I whipped this up last minute—what started as a simple craving turned into an afternoon filled with laughter as everyone fought over who got the bigger slice. Trust me; your taste buds are in for quite the treat!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The simplicity of this Pecan Pie Dump Cake makes it perfect for busy weeknights or festive occasions.
- With its rich flavor profile and beautiful presentation, it’s sure to impress guests.
- You can easily adapt this recipe by swapping nuts or adding chocolate for extra indulgence.
- Plus, it only requires minimal effort—just dump and bake!
Ingredients for Pecan Pie Dump Cake
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Yellow Cake Mix: A classic base that provides structure and sweetness; opt for a quality brand for best results.
- Pecans: Chopped pecans add crunch and flavor; toast them slightly for an enhanced nutty aroma.
- Unsalted Butter: Use melted butter to give richness and help bind the cake together without overpowering flavors.
- Granulated Sugar: This brings sweetness that balances out the nuttiness of the pecans perfectly.
- Light Corn Syrup: A key ingredient for achieving that gooey consistency reminiscent of traditional pecan pie.
- Eggs: Two large eggs will help create a rich custard-like filling that holds everything together beautifully.
- Vanilla Extract: Choose pure vanilla extract for the best flavor—trust me, it’s worth it!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Pecan Pie Dump Cake
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, butter up a 9×13 inch baking dish—this will help prevent any sticky situations later.
Step 2: Prepare the Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix and granulated sugar. Stir them together until well blended—it’s like giving them a little dance party before they meet their destiny!
Step 3: Melt That Butter
Melt your unsalted butter in the microwave or on the stovetop until it’s nice and liquidy. Pour this golden goodness into your dry mix and stir until just combined.
Step 4: Add Pecans and Egg Mixture
In another bowl, whisk together light corn syrup, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. Fold in chopped pecans—this is where things get nutty! Then pour this luscious mixture over the cake batter in your baking dish.
Step 5: Bake Away
Pop your creation into the preheated oven and let it bake for about 40-45 minutes or until the top turns golden brown and bubbly. The anticipation will be almost unbearable!
Step 6: Serve with Style
Once baked, let it cool slightly before serving. Cut into squares and serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if you’re feeling extra indulgent—because why not?
Now you’ve transformed simple ingredients into an unforgettable dessert that’ll have everyone asking for seconds! Enjoy every bite of your delightful Pecan Pie Dump Cake—it’s sure to become one of your go-to recipes!
You Must Know
- This pecan pie dump cake offers the delightful flavors of a classic pecan pie without all the fuss.
- It’s perfect for a cozy gathering or just a sweet treat at home.
- The blend of buttery cake and crunchy pecans makes each bite irresistible.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix the filling ingredients in one bowl while preparing the cake mix in another. Layer everything in a baking dish, then bake until golden brown for that perfect texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this recipe by adding chocolate chips or dried fruits for extra sweetness. Swap out pecans for walnuts if you prefer, or use a spice blend to elevate the flavor profile.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover pecan pie dump cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always measure your ingredients precisely for consistent results.
- Let the cake cool slightly before cutting to ensure clean slices.
- Don’t skip on adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream; it takes this dessert to another level!
I remember making this pecan pie dump cake for my family reunion last summer. My cousin, who usually prefers savory dishes, went back for seconds and declared it his new favorite dessert! It was heartwarming to see everyone enjoying it together.
FAQs:
What is Pecan Pie Dump Cake?
Pecan Pie Dump Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of pecan pie with the simplicity of a dump cake. This easy-to-make dessert requires minimal preparation, allowing you to layer ingredients in a baking dish without extensive mixing. The result is a sweet, gooey cake topped with crunchy pecans and a caramel-like sauce, reminiscent of traditional pecan pie. It’s perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners, providing that classic flavor everyone loves.
Can I use different nuts in my Pecan Pie Dump Cake?
Absolutely! While pecans are traditional in this recipe, you can experiment with other nuts such as walnuts or almonds. Each nut brings its unique flavor and texture to the cake, offering variety to your dessert. Just ensure that any alternative nuts you choose complement the sweetness of the cake. Feel free to mix and match for a delicious twist on the classic Pecan Pie Dump Cake.
How should I store leftovers of Pecan Pie Dump Cake?
To store leftovers of your Pecan Pie Dump Cake, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions in airtight containers. When you’re ready to enjoy more, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it gently in the microwave or oven for the best taste.
Can I make Pecan Pie Dump Cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare your Pecan Pie Dump Cake ahead of time for convenience. Assemble all ingredients and store them separately until you are ready to bake. Alternatively, bake the cake a day in advance and refrigerate it after cooling. When serving, warm individual portions in the microwave for a comforting treat that tastes freshly made.
Conclusion for Pecan Pie Dump Cake:
In summary, Pecan Pie Dump Cake is an incredibly simple yet indulgent dessert that captures the essence of traditional pecan pie without the fuss. With just a few ingredients layered in a baking dish, you can create an unforgettable treat that delights everyone at your table. Whether you’re serving it at parties or enjoying a slice after dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Don’t forget to experiment with different nuts and toppings for personalized variations!
Pecan Pie Dump Cake
Indulge in the irresistible charm of Pecan Pie Dump Cake—a delightful fusion of gooey pecan filling and a buttery cake topping! This effortless dessert combines rich flavors and textures, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights at home. With minimal prep and maximum taste, each slice promises a comforting experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 (15.25 oz) box yellow cake mix
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 cup chopped pecans (toasted)
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix the yellow cake mix and granulated sugar until well combined.
- Melt the unsalted butter and stir it into the dry mixture until just combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the light corn syrup, eggs, and vanilla extract. Fold in the chopped pecans.
- Pour the pecan mixture over the cake batter in the baking dish.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Allow to cool briefly before cutting into squares. Serve warm with whipped cream or ice cream if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square (100g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg