This Pecan Pie Dump Cake: Gooey, Buttery, and Outrageously Easy is the perfect dessert for anyone who loves the rich, nutty flavor of pecan pie without the hassle of making a crust. It’s an effortless treat that will wow your friends and family at any gathering—from holiday celebrations to casual weekend dinners. With layers of sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, and crunchy pecans beneath a buttery cake topping, this dessert delivers comfort and satisfaction in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super Easy Preparation: This recipe requires minimal effort with just a few simple steps, making it perfect for novice bakers.
- Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of gooey sweetness and crunchy pecans creates a delightful taste that everyone will enjoy.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it warm with ice cream or enjoy it on its own—it’s delicious either way!
- Quick Cook Time: With just 45 minutes in the oven, you can whip up this dessert in no time.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a festive holiday or a cozy family dinner, this cake fits right in.
Tools and Preparation
To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the necessary tools before you start. Having everything ready will save time and ensure you don’t miss a step.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl is essential for combining all the wet ingredients thoroughly.
- Whisk: This tool helps mix ingredients quickly and evenly for a smooth batter.
- 9×13-inch baking dish: The ideal size for even baking and easy serving of your Pecan Pie Dump Cake.

Ingredients
To create this delectable Pecan Pie Dump Cake: Gooey, Buttery, and Outrageously Easy, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 can (15 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups pecan halves
- 1 box (about 15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
How to Make Pecan Pie Dump Cake: Gooey, Buttery, and Outrageously Easy
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until fully combined. This mixture forms the delicious base of your dump cake.
Step 3: Add Pecans
Stir in the pecan halves gently. Once mixed well, pour the pecan mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish.
Step 4: Add Cake Mix
Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the top of the pecan mixture. It’s important not to stir at this point; just let it sit atop the filling for now.
Step 5: Drizzle Butter
Drizzle melted butter evenly across the entire surface of the dry cake mix. Aim to cover as much area as possible to ensure even baking.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in your preheated oven for about 45–50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Keep an eye on it towards the end to avoid overbaking.
Step 7: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, let your Pecan Pie Dump Cake cool for about 15–20 minutes before serving. It’s best enjoyed warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top!
How to Serve Pecan Pie Dump Cake: Gooey, Buttery, and Outrageously Easy
Serving your Pecan Pie Dump Cake is just as important as making it. This dessert is versatile and can be enjoyed in various delightful ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.
With Whipped Topping
- Light and fluffy whipped topping adds a creamy contrast to the rich cake. You can use store-bought or make your own with heavy cream and sugar.
A La Mode
- Serve warm slices topped with vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. The melting ice cream will blend beautifully with the gooey cake.
Fresh Berries
- Add a handful of fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries on the side for a burst of freshness that balances the sweetness.
Drizzled Caramel Sauce
- A drizzle of caramel sauce over each slice enhances the flavor profile, making it even more decadent.
Chopped Nuts
- Sprinkle additional chopped pecans on top for extra crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the cake perfectly.
How to Perfect Pecan Pie Dump Cake: Gooey, Buttery, and Outrageously Easy
To ensure your Pecan Pie Dump Cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use room temperature eggs – This helps create a smoother batter, ensuring even baking.
- Don’t skip the greasing – Greasing the baking dish prevents sticking and makes serving easier.
- Layer carefully – Pour your ingredients in layers without mixing for that characteristic dump cake texture.
- Check for doneness – Bake until golden and bubbly; an inserted toothpick should come out clean from the center.
- Store leftovers properly – Keep any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Pecan Pie Dump Cake: Gooey, Buttery, and Outrageously Easy
Pairing side dishes with your Pecan Pie Dump Cake can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some delicious options to consider:
- Simple Salad
A light green salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing counterbalance to the sweetness of the cake. - Roasted Vegetables
Seasoned roasted vegetables offer savory flavors that complement the gooey dessert well. - Cheese Platter
A selection of cheeses can create a delightful contrast in flavors, perfect for nibbling alongside dessert. - Fruit Salad
A vibrant fruit salad adds a fresh touch that pairs nicely with the richness of the dump cake. - Chocolate Mousse
For chocolate lovers, creamy chocolate mousse makes an excellent side treat that enhances indulgence. - Ice Cream Sundae Bar
Set up a sundae bar with toppings like sprinkles and chocolate syrup, allowing guests to customize their desserts! - Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips
These sweet chips provide a crunchy element that’s fun to snack on alongside your cake. - Coffee or Tea
A warm cup of coffee or tea can round out your meal beautifully, offering comfort after dessert.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your Pecan Pie Dump Cake turns out perfectly, be aware of these common mistakes.
- Skipping the Greasing Step: Not greasing the baking dish can lead to sticking. Always grease your dish to make serving easier.
- Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can change the cake’s texture. Combine ingredients just until they are blended for best results.
- Not Measuring Ingredients: Inaccurate measurements can affect the taste and texture. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
- Ignoring Baking Time: Every oven is different. Keep an eye on your cake during the last few minutes of baking to prevent overcooking.
- Serving Too Soon: Cutting into the cake too early can ruin its structure. Allow it to cool for at least 15 minutes before serving.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- item Store leftover Pecan Pie Dump Cake in an airtight container.
- item It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- item Make sure it is completely cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezing Pecan Pie Dump Cake: Gooey, Buttery, and Outrageously Easy
- item You can freeze slices of Pecan Pie Dump Cake for up to 3 months.
- item Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- item Label the bag with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating Pecan Pie Dump Cake: Gooey, Buttery, and Outrageously Easy
- item Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- item Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 20-30 seconds or until warm, being careful not to overheat.
- item Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid. Heat until warmed through, usually about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this Pecan Pie Dump Cake so easy?
This Pecan Pie Dump Cake is easy because it requires minimal preparation. You layer ingredients without needing to prepare a crust!
Can I customize my Pecan Pie Dump Cake?
Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips or swap pecans for walnuts if you prefer.
How do I serve Pecan Pie Dump Cake?
Serve warm as is or with whipped cream or ice cream on top for extra indulgence!
How long does it take to make this dessert?
The total time from prep to bake is just about 55 minutes, making it perfect for quick gatherings.
Final Thoughts
This Pecan Pie Dump Cake is not only gooey and buttery but also outrageously simple to make. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a delicious blend of flavors that everyone will love. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or mix-ins!
Pecan Pie Dump Cake: Gooey, Buttery, and Outrageously Easy
Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of Pecan Pie Dump Cake: Gooey, Buttery, and Outrageously Easy. This delightful dessert captures the essence of traditional pecan pie without the hassle of crust-making. Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home, this cake features layers of sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, and crunchy pecans topped with a buttery cake mix that bakes into a gooey delight. With just a few simple steps and minimal prep time, it’s a surefire way to impress friends and family alike.
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 1x
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups pecan halves
- 1 box (about 15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gently stir in pecan halves and pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle dry cake mix evenly over the top without stirring.
- Drizzle melted butter over the cake mix to cover as much as possible.
- Bake for 45–50 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
- Allow to cool for 15–20 minutes before serving warm.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 100g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg





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