Pecan Pie Dump Cake

Pecan Pie Dump Cake is the culinary shortcut you didn’t know your holiday dessert table needed. This gem combines the sticky-sweet joy of a Southern pecan pie with the laid-back ease of a dump cake—and yes, it’s as indulgent and fuss-free as it sounds. If the words “dump cake” make you hesitate, let me assure you: this isn’t some mystery casserole. It’s a sweet, buttery, pecan-studded miracle that comes together in minutes and bakes into a gooey-bottomed, golden-topped dream. Perfect for when you want all the wow with none of the work.

This is the kind of dessert that has people scraping the dish and asking for the recipe before the plates are even cleared. And don’t be surprised if you find yourself making it well outside of the holiday season. (Guilty.)

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Why You’ll Love This Pecan Pie Dump Cake

• Minimal prep, max flavor: Stir, sprinkle, bake. That’s it.
• One-pan wonder: Less cleanup = more couch time.
• Crowd-pleaser: Whether it’s a potluck, Friendsgiving, or just Tuesday night, this cake delivers.
• Comfort food vibes: Like your favorite aunt’s pecan pie, but without the pastry stress.

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Ingredients

• 1 box yellow cake mix
• 3 large eggs
• 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup light corn syrup
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1½ cups chopped pecans
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Whole pecans for garnish (optional)
• Caramel sauce for drizzling (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Mix the filling: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, evaporated milk, corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
3. Add pecans: Stir in chopped pecans. Pour the mixture into your baking dish.
4. Top with cake mix: Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the pecan mixture. Don’t stir.
5. Drizzle with butter: Pour the rest of the melted butter over the top.
6. Bake for 50–60 minutes until golden brown and bubbling.
7. Cool slightly and serve warm. Optional: top with whole pecans and a caramel drizzle.

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Melania’s Tips for Perfect Pecan Pie Dump Cake

• Don’t skimp on the butter—it’s what crisps up that golden top!
• Use a cake mix with pudding for a richer flavor.
• Want a bit of crunch? Toast your pecans before mixing them in.
• Serve with vanilla bean ice cream or cinnamon whipped cream for an extra festive flourish.

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Bake It With the Littles

This is one of those recipes that’s practically made for kiddo hands. Let them:

• Sprinkle the cake mix (think edible confetti!)
• Arrange pecans on top in little patterns
• Lick the caramel spoon (under supervision, of course)

Dump cakes are perfect for little attention spans and big appetites.

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Meal-Prep Magic

Pecan Pie Dump Cake can be made a day ahead—just bake, cool, and cover tightly. Reheat in a 300°F oven until warm (about 15 minutes) or zap individual slices in the microwave for a cozy treat on demand.

Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to 4 days, but honestly, it rarely lasts that long.

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Healthier Swaps Without Losing the Magic

• Cake mix: Try an organic or gluten-free option.
• Butter: Sub with coconut oil or a plant-based butter.
• Corn syrup: Use maple syrup or agave nectar (though the texture may be a bit softer).
• Brown sugar: Coconut sugar gives a deeper, molasses-y vibe.

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Leftover Remix

Leftover Pecan Pie Dump Cake? First of all—congrats. Second, try these:

• Breakfast parfait: Layer chunks with Greek yogurt and a drizzle of maple syrup.
• Waffle topping: Heat and spoon over waffles with whipped cream.
• Milkshake mix-in: Blend a scoop with vanilla ice cream and milk. Thank me later.

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Gift It Like a Pro

Bake in disposable foil pans and wrap with parchment, twine, and a handwritten tag. Add a mini bottle of caramel sauce and a holiday napkin—instant hostess hero. Trust me, no one returns a pan of this cake uneaten.

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FAQs

Can I use a different cake mix flavor?
Yes! Butter pecan or spice cake mix work beautifully.

What if I don’t have corn syrup?
Substitute with maple syrup or honey in a pinch, though the texture may be a bit looser.

Can I freeze it?
Yes—freeze baked and cooled cake for up to 2 months. Thaw and warm in the oven.

Do I have to use whole pecans for garnish?
Not at all! They’re pretty but optional.

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Final Thought

Pecan Pie Dump Cake is a little slice of Southern comfort that’s as easy to make as it is to devour. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or just craving something sweet, this cake is your go-to for fast, fuss-free deliciousness. And remember—dump cake doesn’t mean dumb cake. It means genius with a golden crust.

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