Pecan Dump Cake dances into your kitchen like a joyous Southern melody, transforming simple staples into a golden, gooey wonder. Imagine juicy canned pears and spiced peaches mingling under a snowy blanket of sweet cake mix, generously studded with buttery pecans that toast to crunchy perfection. A swirl of vanilla bean and a hint of maple syrup step in for spirits, adding warm depth without the buzz. Just dump, sprinkle, and bake—then let the aroma wrap you in cozy nostalgia. Each forkful delivers a symphony of soft fruit, tender crumbs, and nutty crunch that feels like a hug from Grandma herself.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Pecan Dump Cake
- It’s incredibly easy to make—just dump and bake!
- Rich, buttery flavor with a delightful crunch from pecans.
- Perfect for gatherings, impressing guests with minimal effort.
- Versatile dessert that pairs well with ice cream or whipped cream.
- Great for any occasion, from casual dinners to festive celebrations.
Pecan Dump Cake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cake bakes evenly and comes out perfectly fluffy.
- Step 2: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with butter or cooking spray. This will help your cake come out easily after baking.
- Step 3: Spread the pie filling (or caramel sauce) evenly across the bottom of the dish. This will be the delicious base of your cake.
- Step 4: Sprinkle the pecan halves over the pie filling in an even layer. This adds a lovely crunch and flavor to your cake.
- Step 5: Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the pecans without shaking the box. This helps keep the layers distinct and delicious.
- Step 6: Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the cake mix, ensuring all areas are moistened. This is what makes the top golden and crispy!
- Step 7: Add a pinch of salt and vanilla extract over the top. This enhances the flavors and makes your cake irresistible.
- Step 8: Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling around the edges. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
- Step 9: Allow to cool for 10–15 minutes before serving. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream if desired for an extra treat!
Notes
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Fat | 20g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Carbs | 40g |
Ingredients
Get ready to whip up a delicious Pecan Dump Cake with these simple ingredients!
- 1 box yellow cake mix – this serves as the base for our cake.
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted – adds richness and moisture.
- 1 can (15 oz) pecan halves – for that delicious nutty flavor and crunch.
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling or caramel sauce – provides sweetness and a fruity touch.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances all the flavors beautifully.
- Pinch of salt – balances the sweetness of the dish.
How to Make Pecan Dump Cake
Get ready for a delightful treat! This Pecan Dump Cake is super easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With a preparation time of just 10 minutes and a cooking time of 45–50 minutes, you’ll have a delicious dessert ready in no time. Allow it to cool for 10–15 minutes before serving for the best experience!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cake bakes evenly and comes out perfectly fluffy.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with butter or cooking spray. This will help your cake come out easily after baking.
Step 3: Add the Pie Filling
Spread the pie filling (or caramel sauce) evenly across the bottom of the dish. This will be the delicious base of your cake.
Step 4: Sprinkle the Pecans
Sprinkle the pecan halves over the pie filling in an even layer. This adds a lovely crunch and flavor to your cake.
Step 5: Add the Cake Mix
Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the pecans without shaking the box. This helps keep the layers distinct and delicious.
Step 6: Drizzle the Butter
Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the cake mix, ensuring all areas are moistened. This is what makes the top golden and crispy!
Step 7: Add Salt and Vanilla
Add a pinch of salt and vanilla extract over the top. This enhances the flavors and makes your cake irresistible.
Step 8: Bake the Cake
Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling around the edges. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Allow to cool for 10–15 minutes before serving. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream if desired for an extra treat!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Dessert |
| Cuisine | American |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 50 minutes |
| Extra Time | 15 minutes (resting) |
| Total Time | 75 minutes |
| Dietary | Vegetarian |
| Serves | 12 |
| Best Served | Warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream! |
Pro Tips for Making Pecan Dump Cake
- Opt for fresh pecans for a richer flavor.
- Layer the ingredients evenly for a beautiful bake.
- Use a mix of butter and a non-dairy substitute for a lighter texture.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat.
How to Serve this Pecan Dump Cake
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra sweet touch.
- Pair with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
- Enjoy with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
You can make this cake ahead and store it easily:
Storing Pecan Dump Cake Leftovers
- Allow the cake to cool completely.
- Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing Pecan Dump Cake
- Cool the cake completely before freezing.
- Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil.
- Label and date the package.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Pecan Dump Cake
- Thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
- Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave individual portions for 30-60 seconds.
- Serve warm for the best texture and taste.
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FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. What is the biggest mistake to avoid when making a dump cake?
One of the biggest mistakes to avoid when making a dump cake is not layering the ingredients properly. Make sure to follow the order of ingredients as specified in the recipe. If you mix everything together instead of layering, you may end up with a dense texture rather than the light and fluffy cake you desire. Also, be cautious not to overbake it, as this can lead to a dry cake. Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time!
2. What are the most popular dump cake flavors?
Some of the most popular dump cake flavors include peach, cherry, and chocolate. However, Pecan Dump Cake has gained a lot of love for its rich, nutty flavor and delightful texture. You can also experiment with other fruits or even add spices like cinnamon to create your own unique flavor combinations. The beauty of dump cakes is their versatility!
3. Does a dump cake need to be refrigerated overnight?
Generally, a dump cake does not need to be refrigerated overnight if you plan to consume it within a couple of days. However, if you have leftovers or want to keep it fresh for longer, it’s a good idea to cover it and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture!
4. Are cobbler and dump cake the same thing?
While cobbler and dump cake may seem similar, they are not the same. A cobbler typically has a biscuit or pie crust topping, while a dump cake is made by dumping ingredients into a pan without mixing them. The result is a cake-like texture with a crispy topping. Both are delicious desserts, but they offer different flavors and textures!
Final Thoughts
There you have it—your new favorite dessert, the Pecan Dump Cake! It’s so easy to whip up, and the delightful aroma will fill your kitchen with warmth and nostalgia. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share it with friends and family. Trust me, they’ll be asking for seconds!