Description
This Pecan Pie Dump Cake is a deliciously easy dessert that combines the gooey richness of pecan pie filling with a buttery, golden cake topping. Using pantry staples like sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, eggs, pecans, yellow cake mix, and melted butter, this recipe requires minimal prep and bakes everything together in one dish. Ideal for gatherings, holidays, or cozy nights, it’s a comforting treat offering rich caramel and nutty flavors without any pie crust fuss.
Ingredients
Scale
Filling
- 1 can (15 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups pecan halves
Topping
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) yellow cake mix
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter to prevent sticking and ensure a golden crust.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is uniform and glossy, scraping down the sides as needed for smoothness.
- Add Pecans: Gently fold the pecan halves into the wet mixture, making sure each nut is coated evenly to distribute flavor throughout.
- Pour into Baking Dish: Pour the pecan mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula to create an even layer that bakes uniformly.
- Layer the Cake Mix: Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the pecan layer. Do not stir or press down; leaving it loose creates a tender, crisp topping.
- Drizzle Butter: Slowly drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix, covering as much surface as possible. This helps the topping brown to a flaky golden finish.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes or until the top is golden and the filling bubbles around the edges. If edges brown too fast, tent with foil. Allow to cool slightly before serving for best texture.
Notes
- Use fresh, plump pecans for the best crunchy texture and rich flavor.
- Butter can be substituted with vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
- You can use chopped pecans instead of halves for more even distribution.
- For a gluten-free option, replace the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free variety.
- Serve warm with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
- Leftovers store well refrigerated for up to three days and reheat nicely.
- Do not stir the cake mix into the pecan mixture; leaving it dry on top creates the perfect texture contrast.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: pecan pie dump cake, easy pecan dessert, one dish dessert, American dessert, holiday dessert, pecan pie alternative
