Oh my goodness, let me just tell you about this Pecan Pie Dump Cake! It’s a delightful marriage of two classic desserts that’s not just delicious but also super simple to make. Seriously, it’s like the universe decided to give us a break by combining pecan pie and cake into one heavenly dish! I remember the first time I made it; my friends couldn’t believe how easy it was. One bite, and they were hooked! The rich, buttery flavor of the pecans paired with the sweetness of the brown sugar and corn syrup—it’s downright irresistible. Plus, you don’t need to fuss with layers or fancy techniques. Just mix, dump, and bake! So, if you’re looking for a dessert that’s sure to impress without all the stress, this is it!
Ingredients List
- 1 box yellow cake mix: This is the base of our dump cake, giving it that lovely fluffy texture and sweetness.
- 1 cup chopped pecans: You’ll want these for that nutty crunch and rich flavor that ties everything together.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted: This adds moisture and a buttery richness to the cake. Make sure it’s melted for easy mixing!
- 1 cup brown sugar: Use packed brown sugar for that deep caramel flavor that complements the pecans beautifully.
- 1 cup corn syrup: This is what really gives the dessert that signature gooey texture, much like traditional pecan pie.
- 4 large eggs: These are essential for binding everything together and giving the cake its structure.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Just a splash to elevate the flavors and add that warm, comforting aroma.
How to Prepare Pecan Pie Dump Cake
Preheat and Prepare
First things first, let’s get that oven fired up! Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). While that’s happening, grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and give it a good greasing—trust me, you want to make sure your cake slides right out when it’s done!
Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and corn syrup. Mix it up until it’s all blended beautifully. Then, crack in the eggs and add that splash of vanilla extract. Stir until everything is well combined; you want a lovely, smooth mixture that smells heavenly!
Layering the Cake
Now comes the fun part! Pour that luscious mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Next, take the box of yellow cake mix and sprinkle it evenly over the top—don’t mix it in, just let it sit there like a cozy blanket. Finally, sprinkle the chopped pecans over the cake mix. This is where the magic happens, as the pecans will toast up and create that wonderful crunch!
Baking Instructions
Pop your baking dish into the oven and let it bake for about 50-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling just a little bit. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be absolutely divine!
Cooling and Serving
Once it’s out of the oven, let your Pecan Pie Dump Cake cool for a bit—about 15-20 minutes is perfect. This allows it to set up nicely. Serve it warm, and don’t forget to add a scoop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream on top for that extra indulgence. Trust me, this is the finishing touch that will take it over the top! Enjoy every gooey, nutty bite!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s talk numbers! Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for a generous slice of this delightful Pecan Pie Dump Cake. Keep in mind, these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used:
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 25g
- Protein: 4g
This dessert is definitely a treat, so enjoy it in moderation! Each slice is packed with flavor and a little bit of indulgence, but it’s always nice to know what you’re enjoying. Happy baking!
FAQ Section
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day. Just make sure to let it come back to room temperature before pouring it into the baking dish and adding the cake mix. This way, you can have a fresh, warm dessert ready in no time without all the fuss!
Can I use a different type of cake mix?
You bet! If you’re feeling adventurous, you can swap out the yellow cake mix for a chocolate or spice cake mix. Just think about how delicious a chocolate pecan dump cake would be! The flavors can really change the vibe of the dessert, so feel free to get creative and use what you have on hand.
How should I store leftovers?
To keep your Pecan Pie Dump Cake fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for about 3-4 days, but let’s be real—it’s so good, it might not last that long! When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just pop it in the microwave for a few seconds to warm it up, and you’re good to go!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This Pecan Pie Dump Cake comes together in no time—perfect for when you need a dessert in a hurry!
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of buttery pecans, sweet brown sugar, and rich corn syrup creates a mouthwatering flavor that’s hard to resist.
- Minimal Cleanup: With just one dish to prepare and bake in, you can spend more time enjoying your dessert and less time doing dishes!
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream for a delightful treat, or enjoy it on its own—either way, it’s heavenly!
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family gathering or a potluck, this dessert is sure to impress and satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth.
- Comforting and Cozy: There’s something so comforting about a warm dessert that brings back memories of family gatherings and holiday celebrations.
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your Pecan Pie Dump Cake turns out perfectly every time! Here are some of my go-to tips that will elevate your baking game:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always check your eggs and baking supplies for freshness. Using fresh eggs and quality butter can make a noticeable difference in taste!
- Don’t Overmix: When you combine your ingredients, mix just until everything is blended. Overmixing can result in a denser cake, and we want that fluffy texture!
- Keep an Eye on Baking Time: Ovens can vary, so start checking your cake at the 50-minute mark. It should be golden brown and bubbly at the edges. If it’s browning too quickly, you can cover it with foil to prevent burning.
- Let It Cool: Allowing the cake to cool for about 15-20 minutes helps it set up, making it easier to cut and serve. Plus, it’s easier to resist the urge to dive in immediately!
- Experiment with Toppings: While whipped cream and ice cream are classics, don’t hesitate to try drizzling caramel sauce or chocolate sauce over the top for an extra special touch!
- Be Mindful of Storage: If you have leftovers, make sure to store them properly. An airtight container in the fridge is key to keeping it fresh and delicious for days!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to creating a Pecan Pie Dump Cake that will have everyone asking for seconds. Happy baking!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to switch things up with your Pecan Pie Dump Cake, I’ve got some fun ideas for you! This dessert is super versatile, so don’t hesitate to get creative. Here are some variations that I absolutely love:
- Nutty Delight: While pecans are the star here, you can mix in other nuts like walnuts or almonds for added texture and flavor. Just make sure to chop them so they blend beautifully with the cake!
- Chocolate Twist: Add a cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a rich, chocolatey version. The gooey chocolate combined with the caramel-like sweetness is a match made in dessert heaven!
- Fruit Fusion: Toss in some fresh or dried fruits like blueberries, cranberries, or even chopped apples for a fruity twist. The tartness will balance out the sweetness perfectly!
- Spiced Up: Want to add a little warmth? Mix in some cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter. It’ll give your cake that cozy, spiced flavor that’s perfect for fall gatherings.
- Maple Syrup Swap: Replace the corn syrup with maple syrup for a unique flavor profile. It adds a lovely depth and pairs wonderfully with the pecans.
- Caramel Drizzle: Before serving, drizzle some caramel sauce over the top for an extra layer of decadence. It’s an indulgent touch that’ll wow your guests!
These variations can take your Pecan Pie Dump Cake to a whole new level, so feel free to mix and match based on your preferences. Happy experimenting!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now, let’s talk about how to keep that delicious Pecan Pie Dump Cake fresh for as long as possible! If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare, trust me!), you’ll want to store them properly to maintain that tasty goodness.
First off, let it cool completely before storing. Once it’s cooled, transfer the cake to an airtight container. If you don’t have one that fits, you can cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This will help keep it moist and prevent any fridge odors from sneaking in. It’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days.
When you’re ready to indulge again, reheating is super simple. Just pop a slice in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds—just enough to warm it up without making it too hot! If you prefer it a bit crispier, you can also reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will help revive that crispy top while warming the gooey filling underneath.
And don’t forget, this dessert is best enjoyed warm, so definitely take the time to reheat it before serving. You can even add another scoop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce on top. Yum! Enjoy every last bite!
Print
Pecan Pie Dump Cake: 7 Irresistible Bites of Bliss
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple dessert that combines pecan pie and cake in one dish.
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup corn syrup
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, and corn syrup.
- Add eggs and vanilla, then stir until combined.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle the cake mix evenly over the top.
- Sprinkle chopped pecans on top of the cake mix.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool before serving.
Notes
- Serve with whipped cream or ice cream.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
- This dish is best enjoyed warm.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Pecan Pie Dump Cake