Indulge your sweet tooth with a delightful Pecan Pie dump cake, a delectable dessert that’s as easy to prepare as it is to enjoy. This scrumptious cake brings together the rich, buttery flavor of classic pecan pie with the moist, light texture of a dump cake—creating a unique treat that’ll impress any crowd. Whether it’s a cozy family gathering, a holiday party, or a simple weeknight treat, this pecan pie dump cake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.
Growing up in the South, our family gatherings always featured lavish dessert spreads, but one treat reigned supreme above all—the pecan pie. I remember my grandmother in her floral apron, pulling the warm, gooey pies out of the oven. Years later, in a quest for simplicity, I stumbled upon a dump cake version that sweetly captures those same nutty, caramel notes in a fraction of the time. Now, it’s a staple at both Thanksgiving and impromptu family get-togethers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is loved not only for its mouth-watering taste but also for its simplicity. You won’t need to stress over intricate preparations or lengthy cooking times. With only a handful of ingredients, you’ll achieve a depth of flavor typically reserved for more complex desserts. Its versatility shines too—serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla Ice Cream for a comforting end to a meal, or enjoy it chilled for a sweet, refreshing treat.
Ingredients Notes
For this delightful recipe, you’ll need a yellow cake mix, canned pecan pie filling, chopped pecans, eggs, and butter. Look for high-quality pecans—they’ll make a world of difference in taste and texture. If you’re unable to find pecan pie filling, combine corn syrup, brown sugar, and chopped pecans as a substitute. Marrying these basic components creates a harmony of sweet, buttery, and nutty flavors.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2
Spread the pecan pie filling evenly across the bottom of the greased baking dish. This creates a sweet, gooey layer at the base of the cake.
Step 3
In a separate bowl, mix the yellow cake mix with the eggs. Pour the batter over the pecan filling layer, smoothing out with a spatula.
Step 4
Sprinkle chopped pecans generously over the cake batter. This adds a delightful crunch to each bite!
Step 5
Slice butter into thin pats and distribute evenly over the top. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden and bubbly. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Storage Options
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you plan to freeze, wrap individual servings in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Reheat in the microwave or an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Variations & Substitutions
To accommodate dietary needs, try using a gluten-free cake mix. For a nuttier flavor, incorporate a mix of pecans and walnuts. Add chocolate chips on top for a rich twist, or swirl in cream cheese before baking for added creaminess.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy this cake warm with a scoop of your favorite ice cream, or drizzle a bit of caramel sauce on top for a luxurious finish. Perfect as a finale to a holiday meal or a spontaneous afternoon indulgence with coffee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh pecans? Absolutely! Fresh pecans will enhance the nutty taste of the cake. Just ensure they are shelled and chopped before incorporating them into the recipe.
What if I can’t find pecan pie filling? No worries. You can create a simple homemade filling by mixing corn syrup, brown sugar, a dash of vanilla, and chopped pecans.
Can I make this cake ahead of time? Of course. Bake the cake a day in advance and store it in the fridge. It can be served cold or gently warmed in the oven before serving.
No matter the occasion, this pecan pie dump cake brings together the beloved flavors of a classic dessert with minimal effort. From family memories to innovative preparations, it’s a dessert that speaks to both tradition and modern-day convenience. Don’t be surprised if it quickly becomes your go-to treat for celebrations and quiet nights at home alike.

Pecan Pie Dump Cake
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 cups pecans chopped
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1.5 cups caramel sauce bottled or homemade
- 1 stick butter melted
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Spread the chopped pecans evenly across the bottom of the baking dish.1.5 cups pecans
- Evenly pour the caramel sauce over the pecans.1.5 cups pecans
- Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the caramel and pecans.1.5 cups pecans
- Pour the melted butter evenly over the cake mix.1.5 cups pecans
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until golden brown.