Easy Pecan Pie Dump Cake

There’s something irresistibly nostalgic about the sweet, buttery aroma of a pecan dessert baking in the oven. This Easy Pecan Pie Dump Cake takes me straight back to family gatherings at Grandma’s house, where dessert was always the highlight of the meal. Whether it was Thanksgiving or just a casual Sunday, she always had something bubbling in the oven — and this dump cake was one of her magical quick fixes.

She'd hum a little tune while moving around her cozy kitchen, the scent of toasted pecans and vanilla wafting through the air, drawing us in like bees to honey. The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its delightful flavor but also in its simplicity. With just a few pantry staples and less than 10 minutes of prep, you can have an indulgent dessert baking away while you relax with a cup of coffee or tend to other dishes. Perfect for the holidays or whenever you're craving a simple, cozy dessert, this recipe blends the rich flavor of pecan pie with the no-fuss ease of a dump cake. With minimal prep and maximum payoff, it’s a go-to treat you’ll want to make again and again.

Why You’ll Love Easy Pecan Pie Dump Cake

Quick to assemble: Just layer and bake — no mixing bowls required, making cleanup a breeze.
Crowd-pleaser: Sweet, gooey, and crunchy in every bite, it never fails to impress.
Minimal ingredients: Mostly pantry staples and one cake mix keep things easy and budget-friendly.
Make-ahead friendly: Can be made a day in advance and simply warmed before serving.
Perfect for holidays or potlucks: Travels well and feeds a crowd without much fuss.
Freezer-friendly: Stores beautifully for later indulgence, with no compromise in flavor.
Customizable: You can easily tweak it to suit different dietary needs or flavor profiles.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 cup pecans, chopped – Toast for extra flavor, or use pre-chopped pecans to save time.
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk – Adds rich sweetness and binds the filling.
1 cup corn syrup (light or dark) – Light for a milder flavor; dark for a more robust, molasses-like taste.
½ cup (1 stick) butter, melted – Adds richness and moisture to the pecan layer.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the classic pecan pie flavor; real vanilla extract is best.
1 box yellow cake mix (15 oz) – Choose a moist or butter golden variety for extra richness.
½ cup (1 stick) cold butter, sliced thin – For dotting the top and creating a golden, buttery crust.
1 cup water – Helps the cake mix bake evenly and stay moist without overmixing.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
Layer chopped pecans evenly across the bottom of the dish, ensuring they cover the entire base.
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, corn syrup, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Pour the pecan mixture over the chopped nuts, spreading gently with a spatula if needed.
Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the entire surface. Resist the urge to stir.
Top with thin slices of cold butter, spacing them out evenly to ensure full coverage.
Carefully pour 1 cup of water over the top, letting it settle without disturbing the layers.
Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. The center should look set but still soft.
Let cool for at least 15–20 minutes before serving. It will thicken and set further as it rests.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serve warm from the oven with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, cinnamon whipped cream, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Add a crunchy topping like toasted pecans or crushed graham crackers just before serving for added texture.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavor deepens as it sits.
To reheat, microwave individual servings for 20–30 seconds, or warm in a 300°F oven for 10–15 minutes.
Freeze portions by wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Store for up to 3 months. Let thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Helpful Notes

Add-ins: A sprinkle of chocolate chips or butterscotch chips before baking adds a fun twist.
Nut-free version: Swap the pecans with a mix of oats, coconut, and pumpkin seeds.
Gluten-free option: Use a certified gluten-free cake mix. Double-check other ingredient labels.
For extra crunch: Lightly toast the pecans in a dry skillet or 350°F oven for 8 minutes before layering.
Lining the dish: Consider lining the dish with parchment paper for easier cleanup and serving.
Flavor boost: Add a teaspoon of bourbon or a pinch of sea salt to the filling for depth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze this dump cake?
Yes! Wrap individual portions or the entire dish tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Let thaw overnight and reheat before serving.
What if I don’t have corn syrup?
You can substitute maple syrup, golden syrup, or honey. The texture and sweetness will vary slightly but still be delicious.
Can I use a different cake mix?
Absolutely! Butter pecan, spice cake, or even chocolate cake mix work beautifully depending on your taste preferences.
Does the butter have to be cold?
Yes, using cold butter helps it melt gradually during baking, forming a crispy, golden crust on top.
Can I make this ahead?
Definitely. You can assemble it a few hours in advance and refrigerate, then bake just before serving. Or bake it a day ahead and reheat when ready.
Is this dessert overly sweet?
It is rich and sweet like a pecan pie, but balancing it with unsweetened whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream tones it down beautifully.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Pecan Pie Dump Cake is pure comfort in a pan — gooey, buttery, and packed with pecan flavor that warms the soul. It’s the kind of dessert that makes any gathering feel special, even if it’s just a quiet night in. With how simple and adaptable it is, there’s really no reason not to give it a try. Whether you're feeding a crowd or indulging solo, you'll be amazed at how something so easy can taste so decadent. If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out — leave a comment, share your photos, or tag your sweet creation on social media. Happy baking!