There’s something special about a pecan dump cake—the way it combines buttery, crunchy pecans with a gooey, cake-like texture that makes every bite irresistible. This easy-to-make dessert holds a special place in my heart. Growing up in St. Francisville, Louisiana, I learned early that simple recipes often bring the most joy. My grandmother was the queen of making something magical out of just a few ingredients, and this pecan dump cake recipe is no different. It’s a straightforward dessert that always gets rave reviews.
The beauty of pecan pie dump cake is its simplicity. Just a box of cake mix, butter, pecans, and some sweetened condensed milk, all “dumped” into a pan, and voilà! What you get is a golden, crispy topping with a deliciously gooey, caramel-like base. It’s the kind of dessert that’s perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or just when you’re craving something sweet and comforting. If you love this kind of effortless indulgence, you’ll definitely want to try this butter pecan dump cake variation that adds a rich, nutty depth to the classic.
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Pecan Dump Cake – A Simple, Sweet, and Irresistible Dessert
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This pecan dump cake is sweet, buttery, and irresistibly delicious. With a crunchy topping and gooey pecan filling, it’s a simple dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
1 box of yellow cake mix 1 cup of melted butter 2 cups of chopped pecans 1 can of pecan dump cake with condensed milk
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. 2. Spread the cake mix evenly over the bottom of the pan. 3. Drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix evenly. 4. Sprinkle the chopped pecans over the buttered cake mix. 5. Add condensed milk evenly on top of the pecans and cake mix. 6. Bake for 45 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly. Let cool before serving.
Notes
You can add slices of apple for a variation of pecan pie dump cake with apple. Use butter pecan cake mix for an extra rich flavor. For a more indulgent version, try using chocolate chips on top of the cake mix.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
What makes this dessert even more special is the versatility. I first encountered pecan pie dump cake at a family gathering, and it quickly became a staple. But over the years, I’ve tried my own variations, including pecan dump cake with condensed milk and even a butter pecan pie dump cake that became an instant hit.
The basic concept of this recipe makes it easy to add your own twist, whether you want to try a pecan pie dump cake with apple for a fall version or keep it classic and simple. If you’re a fan of gooey layered desserts, you might also enjoy these pecan pie bars—a handheld take on the classic that’s just as rich and satisfying. No matter how you make it, the flavors always work together perfectly.
In 2025, the pecan dump cake trend is everywhere—social media, food blogs, and even TikTok are buzzing with variations of this cake. People are exploring different ways to make it their own, but at its heart, it’s still that same easy-to-make, delicious dessert I fell in love with all those years ago. This dessert is a true reflection of how simple ingredients can come together to create something unforgettable.
How to Make Pecan Dump Cake (Step-by-Step)
If you’ve ever made a dump cake pecan , you know just how simple it is. This dessert doesn’t require any complicated steps or hours in the kitchen—just a few ingredients and some patience as it bakes to perfection. The best part? You can easily make this pecan pie dump cake recipe your own by adding in different twists or using variations like pecan pie dump cake with apple.
If you’re looking for a quicker alternative with the same Southern charm, these lazy girl pecan pie bars are just as gooey and satisfying—no cake mix required.And if you enjoy creamy citrus flavors, don’t miss these lazy day lemon cream pie bars—they offer a lighter, zesty contrast that pairs beautifully with richer desserts like this one.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Pecan Dump Cake
Making a dump cake pecan pie is as easy as it gets, so don’t worry about pulling out any fancy tools. You can create this dessert in just three simple steps.
Ingredients:
- 1 box of yellow cake mix
- 1 cup of melted butter
- 2 cups of chopped pecans
- 1 can of pecan dump cake with condensed milk (adds extra richness)
Instructions:
- Prep the pan: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Then, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure the cake doesn’t stick.
- Mix it up: Spread the yellow cake mix evenly over the bottom of the pan. No need to mix it with any liquids—just pour it straight in. Drizzle the melted butter on top of the cake mix, covering it evenly.
- Top it off: Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly over the cake mix, pressing them gently into the surface. For an extra indulgent twist, you can also add in pecan pie dump cake with apple at this stage by layering sliced apples beneath the pecans.
- Bake it: Place the pan in the oven and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Let it cool slightly before serving.
This dump cake pecan pie recipe is so simple but packs a flavor punch. Whether you follow the classic version or add your own personal twist with ingredients like butter pecan dump cake, it’s sure to become a family favorite. The crispy, buttery top combined with the sweet, gooey bottom creates the perfect balance. It’s definitely one of those desserts that will impress everyone without requiring much effort!
The Best Tips for Making Perfect Pecan pie Dump Cake
Making the perfect pecan dump cake is all about balance—getting the right combination of texture, flavor, and sweetness. It’s so easy to make, but a few small tweaks can take this simple dessert to the next level. Whether you’re making the classic dump cake pecan pie recipe or adding a fun twist, these tips will help ensure your cake turns out perfectly every time.
Expert Tips for a Perfect Pecan Dump Cake
Here are a few of my best tips for making sure your dump cake pecan comes out just right:
1. Use Cold Butter:
Using cold, melted butter is key to achieving that signature crispy topping. If the butter is too hot, it might make the cake too greasy. Just melt it enough so that it can be easily poured over the cake mix.
2. Don’t Overmix:
For a light, crumbly texture, don’t overmix the cake mix. Just spread it evenly in the pan, and let the ingredients do the work. No need for whisking or blending!
3. Add Condensed Milk:
If you’re making a pecan dump cake with condensed milk, don’t skimp on it. Condensed milk adds a rich, creamy texture that makes the bottom of the cake gooey and flavorful. It’s the secret to making your cake extra indulgent.
4. Try Pecan Pie Dump Cake with Apple:
Want to take your pecan pie dump cake up a notch? Add a little extra twist with some sliced apples for a warm, fruity flavor. Pecan pie dump cake with apple combines the richness of pecan pie with the freshness of apples, making it a perfect dessert for fall.
By following these simple tips, you can elevate your pecan dump cake recipe from just a dessert to a showstopper. It’s a great treat for every occasion—whether you’re making it for a family gathering, a holiday, or just a cozy weekend dessert. The best part? You can customize it to suit your taste with just a few simple ingredients.
Pecan Dump Cake Variations to Try
The beauty of dump cake pecan pie is in its versatility. While the classic version is already a crowd-pleaser, there are so many ways to tweak the recipe and create new flavor combinations. Whether you want to keep it simple or try something more adventurous, these variations are sure to inspire your next baking adventure.
Delicious Dump Cake Pecan Variations
1. Pecan Pie Dump Cake with Apple
One of my favorite variations is the pecan pie dump cake with apple. The sweetness and tartness of fresh apples perfectly complement the richness of the pecan pie filling, creating a combination that’s ideal for fall or Thanksgiving. Simply add thinly sliced apples on top of the cake mix before adding the melted butter and pecans. The result is a warm, comforting dessert with the perfect balance of flavors.
2. Butter Pecan Dump Cake
If you’re a fan of the rich, nutty flavor of butter pecan ice cream, you’ll love this variation. For a butter dump cake pecan pie , swap out the yellow cake mix for a butter pecan cake mix. This subtle change gives the cake a deeper, buttery flavor that pairs wonderfully with the crunch of the pecans. It’s a simple but indulgent twist on the classic pecan dump cake recipe that adds a little extra richness.
3. Pecan pie Dump Cake with Condensed Milk
For an extra creamy and gooey version, make a pecan dump cake with condensed milk. The condensed milk adds a silky, smooth texture that seeps into the cake, creating a decadent and irresistible treat. The sweet, sticky layer at the bottom is the perfect complement to the crispy top. You’ll want to make sure you don’t skimp on the condensed milk, as it’s the secret to a moist and flavorful cake.
4. Pecan Dump Cake with Chocolate Chips
Want to turn your pecan cake dump into a chocolate lover’s dream? Add a handful of chocolate chips on top of the cake mix before baking. The melted chocolate pairs perfectly with the nuts, creating a rich, indulgent dessert that’s a hit with kids and adults alike. It’s a fun variation that combines two classic dessert elements—pecans and chocolate—into one delicious treat.
These pecan pie dump cake variations are just the beginning. You can experiment with different nuts, fruits, or even flavored cake mixes to make the recipe your own. The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes pecan dump cake such a great base for creating your perfect dessert. No matter how you customize it, one thing is certain—it will be delicious.
FAQs About Pecan Dump Cake
What is the biggest mistake to avoid when making a dump cake?
The biggest mistake to avoid when making a pecan pie dump cake is overmixing the cake mix. Unlike traditional cakes, dump cakes don’t require much stirring. Simply spread the dry cake mix evenly and pour the butter over it without mixing. Overmixing can lead to a dense, soggy cake instead of the light, buttery texture you want.
What’s the difference between a dump cake and a cobbler?
The main difference between a dump cake and a cobbler lies in the texture and preparation. A cobbler is often made with a biscuit or pie crust topping, while a dump cake uses a cake mix that forms a crumbly, crispy topping as it bakes. Dump cakes are much easier and quicker to prepare, making them a popular choice for last-minute dessert cravings.
Should you toast pecans before baking in a cake?
Toasting pecans before adding them to your pecan dump cake is optional but highly recommended. Toasting brings out the natural oils in the nuts, enhancing their flavor and adding a deeper, richer taste to the cake. If you’re short on time, however, you can add them directly, but toasted pecans will always add an extra level of flavor.
Can you use brownie mix for dump cake?
Yes, you can use brownie mix as a substitute for the standard cake mix in your pecan dump cake recipe. This creates a chocolatey, rich base that complements the pecans beautifully. You can add chocolate chips for an even richer flavor or adjust the sweetness depending on your preference. It’s a fun variation for those who enjoy chocolatey desserts!
Conclusion
The pecan dump cake trend shows no signs of slowing down in 2025, and it’s easy to see why. This dessert strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and indulgence, offering rich, buttery flavors with minimal effort. Whether you stick to the classic dump cake pecan pie recipe, try a twist with pecan pie dump cake with apple, or experiment with butter pecan dump cake, you can’t go wrong.
From family gatherings to casual weeknight desserts, pecan pie dump cake is the kind of recipe that always impresses. It’s quick, easy, and delicious, making it a go-to treat that anyone can enjoy. Plus, with so many variations to try, there’s a version for every taste.
So, whether you’re craving something simple or looking to try new flavors, don’t hesitate to dive into the dump cake pecan trend. It’s sweet, salty, and guaranteed to be a hit every time. And if you’re curious about how it all started, check out this classic dump cake recipe that inspired generations of easy desserts.
