Pecan Pie Dump Cake: A No-Fuss Dessert Masterpiece
This irresistible dessert combines the rich flavors of pecan pie with the simplicity of a dump cake—just layer, bake, and enjoy!
Ingredients
- 1 can (21 oz) pecan pie filling (or see our homemade alternative below)
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow or butter cake mix (use it dry—no prep required!)
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup chopped pecans (for extra texture)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional but recommended)
- ½ tsp cinnamon (for a warm, spiced note)
Bonus Enhancements
- Caramel sauce drizzle (before or after baking)
- Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream (for serving)
Instructions
1. Prep Your Baking Space
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Use butter or nonstick cooking spray to lightly coat a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
2. Create the Flavor Base
- Spread the pecan pie filling evenly across the dish.
- For extra depth, stir in vanilla extract and cinnamon at this stage.
3. Layer the Dry Mix
- Evenly distribute the dry cake mix on top of the filling.
- Resist the urge to stir—this creates the perfect layered texture.
4. Add Butter & Pecans
- Slowly drizzle melted butter over the cake mix, covering as much as possible.
- Top with chopped pecans for added crunch.
5. Bake to Golden Bliss
- Bake for 40-50 minutes until the top is golden and the edges bubble.
- Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving (it thickens as it cools).
6. Serve with Flair
- Scoop warm servings into bowls and top with ice cream or whipped cream.
- A final drizzle of caramel sauce takes it over the top!
Video
Notes
Essential Tips
-
Pan Size Matters
- For thicker results: Use 9x9" or 11x7" pan (add 5 mins baking)
- For crispier edges: Metal pans > glass
-
Butter Distribution Secret
- Melt butter first, then refrigerate 5 mins to thicken slightly - helps prevent dry spots
-
Altitude Adjustments
- Above 3,000 ft? Add 2 tbsp extra butter and reduce temp to 325°F
Troubleshooting
⚠ Too Wet?- Bake uncovered additional 5-8 mins
- Next time: Reduce filling by ¼ cup
- Drizzle ¼ cup warm cream over top before serving
- Next time: Add extra 2 tbsp butter
Make-Ahead Magic
• Unbaked- Refrigerate layered dish (covered) 24 hours
- Freeze (unbaked) 1 month - bake frozen (+10 mins)
- Freeze slices between parchment for 3 months
- Reheat: 300°F for 15 mins (from frozen)
Serving Pro Tips
• Cut Clean Slices- Dip knife in hot water between cuts
- Wipe blade with oil to prevent sticking
- Top with candied pecans right before serving
- Dust with cinnamon-sugar mix
Special Diet Notes
🌱 Vegan Version- Use plant butter + flax eggs in filling
- Choose dairy-free ice cream
- 1:1 GF flour blend works in homemade filling
- Certified GF cake mixes vary by brand