Pecan Pie Dump Cake: The Easiest Way to Enjoy a Southern Classic
If you’ve ever craved the warm, caramel-sweet flavor of traditional pecan pie but wished the process were just a bit simpler, this Pecan Pie Dump Cake is about to become your new favorite dessert. This irresistible treat combines the gooey richness of pecan pie filling with the buttery crumble of a classic dump cake, creating a dessert that’s decadent, foolproof, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply want a cozy homemade dessert without hours in the kitchen, this recipe delivers bakery-level flavor with nearly zero effort.
⭐ Why This Recipe Works
This cake is loved for its minimal prep, flaky-crunchy pecan topping, and deeply sweet, caramel-like center. With simple pantry staples and a “dump and bake” method, it’s perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike. Each bite offers the perfect balance of crunch, sweetness, and buttery richness—no pie crust required.
🥘 Ingredients & Why Each One Matters
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
These provide the signature nutty crunch that defines pecan pie. Layering them on the bottom ensures every scoop gets a pleasant texture contrast. - 1 can (15 oz) sweetened condensed milk
Acts as the base of the filling, giving the dessert its silky, caramel-sweet richness. - 1 cup corn syrup (light or dark)
This ingredient deepens the classic pecan pie flavor.
Light corn syrup = mild sweetness
Dark corn syrup = richer, molasses-like depth - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Adds smoothness to the filling and enhances the caramelization. - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Rounds out the flavors with warm, aromatic sweetness. - 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
Creates the signature crumbly, golden topping that makes dump cakes so irresistible. - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, sliced into thin pats
These melt over the cake mix to produce a buttery, crisp top layer. - 1 cup water
Helps hydrate the cake mix and ensures the topping cooks evenly.
👩🍳 How to Make Pecan Pie Dump Cake (Step-by-Step)
- Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. - Create the Nut Layer
Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly across the bottom of the dish. - Mix the Gooey Filling
In a bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, corn syrup, melted butter, and vanilla until smooth and fully combined. - Pour the Filling
Carefully pour the mixture over the pecans. - Add the Cake Mix
Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the filling—do not stir. This creates the perfect layered texture. - Add Butter for Crispness
Place the sliced butter pats across the top of the cake mix. This step ensures the ideal golden topping. - Pour Water
Gently drizzle the water over everything. This helps the cake mix hydrate and bake evenly. - Bake to Perfection
Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly around the edges. - Cool Slightly & Serve
Let the dessert rest for at least 10 minutes so the filling thickens and sets.
💡 Pro Tips for the BEST Pecan Pie Dump Cake
- Use dark corn syrup for a deeper, more authentic pecan pie flavor.
- Toast your pecans first (5 minutes at 350°F) for extra richness.
- Don’t skip the butter pats—they’re essential for a crisp, crunchy topping.
- For an extra indulgent twist, sprinkle cinnamon or brown sugar over the cake mix before baking.
- Want a thicker filling? Reduce water to 3/4 cup.
🍽️ How to Serve Your Pecan Pie Dump Cake
This dessert is heavenly on its own, but even better when paired with:
- Vanilla ice cream – melts into the warm cake like a dreamy caramel sauce
- Whipped cream – adds a light, airy contrast
- A drizzle of caramel sauce – the ultimate finishing touch
- Fresh berries – to balance the sweetness
Serve warm for maximum gooey deliciousness.
🎉 Final Thoughts: Simple, Sweet, and Unforgettable
This Pecan Pie Dump Cake proves that incredible desserts don’t have to be complicated. With minimal prep, pantry-friendly ingredients, and a flavor profile that mirrors classic Southern pecan pie, this recipe is guaranteed to impress every single time. Its simplicity, richness, and unbeatable texture make it a standout dessert that deserves a spot in your permanent recipe collection.
Whip it up once, and it’ll become your go-to for holidays, potlucks, and comfort-filled weekends. Few desserts deliver this much flavor with so little effort—and that’s exactly why it outranks the rest. 🍰✨
