Pecan Pie Dump Cake: A Rich, Easy Dessert with Southern Charm

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pecan Pie Dump Cake is the perfect solution when you want all the flavor of classic pecan pie with a fraction of the effort. This dessert combines a gooey, caramel-like pecan filling with a buttery cake topping that bakes into irresistible layers. I appreciate this recipe because it feels indulgent and comforting while being remarkably simple to prepare. There is no need for mixing bowls or complicated steps, which makes it ideal for busy holidays or last-minute guests. I first made this dump cake when I needed a dependable dessert that could feed a crowd, and it quickly became a staple. The contrast between the soft, rich base and the lightly crisp topping creates a satisfying texture that appeals to nearly everyone. It is a warm, nostalgic dessert that delivers big flavor with minimal work.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Pecan halves
Pecans are the star of this dessert. They provide crunch, nuttiness, and that unmistakable pecan pie flavor that defines the dish.

Eggs
Eggs help create the custard-like texture in the base, similar to traditional pecan pie filling.

Brown sugar
Brown sugar adds deep sweetness and a caramel undertone that pairs beautifully with the pecans.

Corn syrup
Corn syrup gives the filling its classic gooey consistency and glossy finish.

Butter
Butter adds richness and helps create a moist, flavorful cake topping as it melts during baking.

Vanilla extract
Vanilla enhances the sweetness and rounds out the overall flavor profile.

Yellow cake mix
Cake mix forms the top layer of the dessert. It bakes into a buttery, slightly crisp topping that contrasts with the soft filling.

Salt
A small amount of salt balances the sweetness and enhances the nutty flavors.

Directions

Preheat the oven to 175°C and grease a baking dish generously. Spread the pecans evenly across the bottom of the dish. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth. Pour this mixture over the pecans, ensuring they are well coated. Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the top without stirring. Slice the remaining butter thinly and place it evenly across the cake mix. Bake until the top is golden and the center is set but still slightly gooey. Allow the dessert to cool briefly before serving so the layers can set.

Equipment needed

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.

knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves eight to ten people. Preparation takes approximately 10 minutes, with a baking time of about 45 to 50 minutes.

Storage/reheating

Store leftover pecan pie dump cake covered in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in the oven before serving.

Variations and Customizations

Chocolate Pecan Dump Cake
Add chocolate chips for a richer, dessert-style variation.

Bourbon Pecan Version
Incorporate a small amount of bourbon for deeper flavor.

Spiced Pecan Cake
Add cinnamon or nutmeg for warm spice notes.

Butter Pecan Twist
Use butter pecan cake mix for extra nuttiness.

Mini Servings
Bake in ramekins for individual portions.

FAQs

Is this the same as pecan pie?

It has similar flavors but a cake-like topping instead of pastry.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats well and can be made a day in advance.

Do I need to stir the layers?

No, layering is essential for the dump cake texture.

Can I use chopped pecans?

Yes, though halves provide better texture.

Is this dessert very sweet?

It is rich and sweet, similar to pecan pie.

Can I freeze pecan pie dump cake?

Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes.

What cake mix works best?

Yellow or butter cake mix works best.

How do I know it is done?

The top should be golden and the center set.

Can I reduce the sugar?

You can slightly reduce it, but the texture may change.

What should I serve with it?

Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream pairs well.

Conclusion

Pecan Pie Dump Cake is a warm, comforting dessert that delivers classic pecan pie flavor with unbeatable ease. Its gooey base, buttery topping, and crowd-pleasing appeal make it a reliable choice for holidays, potlucks, and everyday indulgence.

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