Pecan Pie Dump Cake – Easy, Gooey & Delicious Recipe

If you’re searching for a treat that practically makes itself while wowing every palate at the table, look no further than this Pecan Pie Dump Cake – Easy, Gooey & Delicious. Imagine all the nostalgic flavors of classic pecan pie—rich caramel, toasty nuts, buttery goodness—effortlessly transformed into a heavenly, scoopable cake. You don’t need pie crust skills or fancy ingredients, just a handful of staples and a baking dish. Every bite is pure magic and comfort, perfect for holidays or spontaneous potluck nights alike!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for a short and sweet lineup of pantry favorites, each one working its magic to create a gooey, golden dessert everyone craves. Don’t overlook the details—each ingredient brings unique flavor and texture, adding up to the ultimate Pecan Pie Dump Cake – Easy, Gooey & Delicious!

• Chopped Pecans: For that signature toasty crunch that makes pecan desserts irresistible
• Brown Sugar: Lends a deep caramel richness and a soft, sweet finish
• Melted Butter: Essential for the gooey, buttery texture and lush flavor infusion
• Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and complexity to balance all the sweet notes
• Large Eggs: Bind the filling, giving you that perfect, custardy consistency
• Evaporated Milk (12 oz can): Delivers creamy depth and a rich base, just like traditional pie filling
• Yellow Cake Mix: The unsung hero, creating a tender, cake-like crown that pairs so well with the gooey base
• Additional Melted Butter: Ensures the topping bakes up golden and extra sumptuous
• Cinnamon (optional): For those who love a cozy hint of spice—totally delightful but not required!

How to Make Pecan Pie Dump Cake – Easy, Gooey & Delicious

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This helps prevent any sticky bits from clinging to the pan and guarantees easy serving when your dump cake is done. Grab your favorite pan and set yourself up for no-fuss cleanup later.

Step 2: Create the Gooey Pie Layer

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, brown sugar, ½ cup of the melted butter, vanilla extract, and the entire can of evaporated milk. This combination forms the luscious, almost custard-like base that mimics the very best pecan pie filling—sweet, buttery, and just the right amount of creamy.

Step 3: Pour and Even Out the Base

Pour your whisked filling mixture into the prepared baking dish, making sure to spread it into an even layer. This will set the stage for the cake mix to “float” on top and bake into its classic golden layer. The aroma at this stage is already a promising sign!

Step 4: Sprinkle on the Magic

Now, grab your box of yellow cake mix and sprinkle it evenly over the wet base. No need to mix—just let the cake mix gently rest on top. This step is where the delightful “dump” magic happens, giving you distinct layers and a delicious range of textures.

Step 5: Make It Extra Gooey

Drizzle the remaining ½ cup melted butter over the cake mix, focusing on areas where the powdery mix is thickest. This butter not only promotes an irresistibly golden crust, it also melts down and creates those fudgy, caramel-esque pockets that make this Pecan Pie Dump Cake – Easy, Gooey & Delicious so legendary.

Step 6: Top with Pecans and Spice

Scatter the chopped pecans all across the top, and if you like, add a sprinkle of cinnamon for a whisper of warmth. The pecans toast as they bake, releasing their nutty fragrance and crunch—don’t skimp on this part!

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Slide your dish into the hot oven and bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the top is set with a little jiggle in the middle. Let it cool slightly before serving so the gooey center thickens up just enough to hold together by the spoonful.

How to Serve Pecan Pie Dump Cake – Easy, Gooey & Delicious

Garnishes

For a show-stopping finish, crown each warm slice with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or a swirl of freshly whipped cream. A sprinkle of extra chopped pecans or a drizzle of caramel sauce makes it over-the-top beautiful and doubly delicious. These touches balance the cake’s richness and add a creamy contrast.

Side Dishes

If you’re bringing out this dessert after a meal, pair your Pecan Pie Dump Cake – Easy, Gooey & Delicious with coffee, spiced chai, or even a cool glass of milk. For a festive dessert spread, surround it with fresh apple slices, a fruit salad, or other light, seasonal treats to balance its decadent personality.

Creative Ways to Present

Dollop warm servings into small mason jars for an eye-catching twist at potlucks or picnics—the gooey, layered look is downright irresistible in glass! Or try mini ramekins for individual portions. You can even cut slightly chilled pieces into bars and drizzle with chocolate for a handheld treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool your Pecan Pie Dump Cake – Easy, Gooey & Delicious completely, then cover the baking dish tightly with foil or scoop leftovers into an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days. (If you can make it last that long!)

Freezing

For long-term storage, slice cooled dump cake into portions and wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then foil, before freezing in a zip-top bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator when a pecan pie craving strikes, and you’ll be ready to enjoy gooey goodness any time.

Reheating

Gently reheat single servings in the microwave for about 30 seconds, or warm larger portions in a 300°F oven until hot and bubbling. If you want to bring back that fresh-baked aroma and a touch of crunch, a quick oven reheat is the way to go.

FAQs

Can I use a different cake mix flavor?

Absolutely! White or butter pecan cake mix can work beautifully and add their own subtle spin. But yellow cake mix keeps things closest to the classic Pecan Pie Dump Cake – Easy, Gooey & Delicious flavor profile.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, just substitute a quality gluten-free yellow cake mix. The gooey filling and nutty topping will still shine—the ultimate comfort treat, minus the gluten!

Should I toast the pecans beforehand?

While toasting is not essential since they’ll get toasty during baking, you can always toast them for a deeper, nuttier flavor. Just let them cool completely before sprinkling on the cake.

How do I know when the dump cake is done?

The edges should look golden brown, and the top should be cooked through with a slight wobble in the center. That signature gooeyness means you don’t want to overbake—it’ll firm up as it cools.

Can I make Pecan Pie Dump Cake – Easy, Gooey & Delicious in advance for a party?

Definitely! This dessert is ideal for make-ahead prep. Bake a day ahead and warm before serving for that just-baked meltiness. Perfect for stress-free entertaining!

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend Pecan Pie Dump Cake – Easy, Gooey & Delicious enough. It’s one of those desserts I make for friends, family, and honestly, myself when I need a little comfort and delight. With ridiculously easy steps and unbeatable flavor, it’s destined to become a regular in your sweet treat rotation. Give it a try—you’ll be hooked from the very first bite!

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