Pecan Pie Dump Cake (Easy & Irresistible)

Last updated on August 23rd, 2025 at 11:20 am

Pecan Pie Dump Cake

If you love the sweet, nutty richness of pecan pie but crave something easier and even more indulgent, this Pecan Pie Dump Cake will be your new favorite dessert. Dump cakes are famous for their no-fuss layering method — no mixing, no rolling out dough — just a few pantry staples “dumped” into a pan that bake into gooey, caramelized perfection. This version takes inspiration from the classic pecan pie and transforms it into a soft, buttery cake with a golden top and a luscious center. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a family potluck, or a cozy weekend treat, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Serve it warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, and you’ll have a crowd-pleaser that feels homemade and comforting, without hours in the kitchen.

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Ingredients

• 1 box yellow cake mix
• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup packed brown sugar

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Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• 9×13-inch baking pan (metal works best for even baking)
• Mixing bowl (medium-sized for the condensed milk mixture)
• Whisk (for blending condensed milk, vanilla, and sugar)
• Measuring cups and spoons (for butter, sugar, and vanilla)
• Spatula or butter knife (to gently swirl ingredients)
• Aluminum foil (optional, for tenting if the cake browns too quickly)
• Oven mitts (safety first!)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven
   Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter.
2. Layer the Dry Base
   Pour the yellow cake mix evenly into the prepared baking dish—no mixing needed!
3. Add the Crunch
   Sprinkle the chopped pecans right over the cake mix. This gives that signature pecan pie crunch.
4. Drizzle the Butter 🧈
   Slowly drizzle melted butter across the cake mix and pecans, covering as much of the surface as possible.
5. Mix the Gooey Filling
   In a bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, brown sugar, and salt until smooth.
6. Pour It On
   Carefully pour the condensed milk mixture over the cake, making sure it spreads evenly.
7. Bake Until Golden ⏲️
   Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling, and the center is mostly set.
8. Cool Slightly & Serve
   Let cool for 10–15 minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for that ultimate holiday treat. 🎄

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Pro Baking Tools to Make Your Dump Cake Shine

Pro Tips

Flavor Boosters

• Browned Butter Magic: For a richer, nutty flavor, brown the butter before pouring it over the cake mix.
• Nut-Free Swap: Skip the pecans and use granola clusters or crushed graham crackers for crunch without nuts.
• Serving Suggestion: This cake shines when served warm! Reheat leftovers in the microwave for 15–20 seconds.

Baking Success Secrets

• Pick the Right Pan: A metal 9×13 pan bakes more evenly than glass or ceramic. If using glass, reduce bake time slightly.
• Butter Balance: Want it extra gooey? Stick with the full cup of butter. Prefer a firmer cake? Use about ¾ cup.
• Swirl for Evenness: After pouring in the condensed milk and butter, lightly swirl them into the dry mix. This prevents dry spots and overly wet pockets.
• Check Early & Adjust: Start checking around 35 minutes. If edges brown too fast, cover loosely with foil until the center is set.
• Cool Before Serving: Let the cake rest 15–20 minutes before slicing. This helps the gooey center firm up without overbaking.

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Nutrition Info (Per Serving)

Serving Size	Calories	Protein	Carbs	Fat	Fiber	Sugar
1 square	420	4g	52g	22g	1g	38g

Disclaimer:
Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.