This Pecan Pie Dump Cake is the ultimate easy dessert—rich, gooey, and packed with all the flavors of a classic pecan pie, but with minimal effort. Just “dump” your ingredients into a baking dish, pop it in the oven, and let the magic happen! With its buttery cake layer, caramel-like filling, and crunchy pecan topping, this dessert is perfect for holidays, potlucks, or anytime you’re craving something sweet and indulgent. Let’s get baking!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dump Cake:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix (or your favorite flavor)
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter , melted
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans (plus extra for garnish, optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for added warmth)
Optional Toppings:
- Whipped cream
- Vanilla ice cream
- Caramel sauce drizzle
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) . Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or spray it with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Layer the Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
- Pour the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the top of the milk mixture. Do not stir.
- Sprinkle the chopped pecans over the cake mix layer, pressing them down lightly to help them adhere.
- If desired, sprinkle ground cinnamon over the top for an extra hint of spice.
Step 3: Bake Until Golden
- Bake the dump cake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes , or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
- If you’d like a crispier topping, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end—watch closely to avoid burning.
Step 4: Cool and Serve
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for 10–15 minutes before serving.
- Slice into squares and serve warm, optionally topped with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Super Easy: No mixer, no rolling dough—just layer, bake, and enjoy!
- Rich and Decadent: The combination of sweetened condensed milk and pecans creates a caramel-like filling that’s irresistible.
- Perfect for Sharing: Great for feeding a crowd at holidays or gatherings.
Tips for Success:
- Use Fresh Pecans: Toast the pecans lightly in a skillet before using to enhance their nutty flavor.
- Don’t Overmix: Simply layer the ingredients as instructed—no stirring required.
- Customize the Toppings: Add chocolate chips, coconut flakes, or a sprinkle of sea salt for extra flair.
Ways to Enjoy Your Pecan Pie Dump Cake:
- For Holidays: A must-have dessert for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion.
- Potluck Favorite: Bring it to gatherings—it’s always a hit and feeds a crowd.
- Weeknight Treat: Whip it up quickly for an indulgent dessert any night of the week.
- With Ice Cream: Serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an over-the-top treat.
This Pecan Pie Dump Cake is proof that delicious desserts don’t have to be complicated. With its gooey, caramel-like filling, crunchy pecan topping, and buttery cake layer, it’s a dessert that will satisfy every sweet tooth. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast, bringing a dish to a potluck, or just craving something decadent, this dump cake is sure to become a go-to recipe. So grab your ingredients, dump them in the pan, and get ready to enjoy a plateful of pecan pie perfection! 🥧
