Easy Pecan Pie Dump Cake

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When you want the cozy warmth of pecan pie without the fuss of making crust, this Easy Pecan Pie Dump Cake is your shortcut to sweet success. With gooey, buttery layers of brown sugar, pecans, and tender cake, it brings all the flavors of a holiday classic with a fraction of the effort. One bite of this comforting dessert, and you’ll wonder why you ever rolled out pie dough in the first place.

Perfect for fall gatherings, Thanksgiving potlucks, or just a weeknight treat when you need something indulgent, this dump cake is as easy as mixing and layering. No electric mixer, no fancy tools—just a baking dish, a handful of pantry staples, and magic in the oven. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s low-effort and high-reward.

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What Kind of Cake Mix Should I Use?

For this recipe, a simple yellow cake mix works beautifully. It adds a rich, buttery backdrop that lets the pecans and caramel-like filling shine. You can also try a butter pecan or spice cake mix for a twist, but yellow cake gives the most classic pecan pie flavor.

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Ingredients for the Easy Pecan Pie Dump Cake

Pecans – The star of the show. Whole or chopped pecans provide crunch and that unmistakable nutty warmth.

Brown Sugar – Deepens the flavor with molasses notes and helps create a gooey layer underneath the cake.

Corn Syrup – This gives the filling that sticky-sweet pecan pie texture. Light corn syrup is ideal.

Eggs – They help set the filling so the cake holds together with just the right custard-like bite.

Butter – Melted and drizzled over the top, butter binds the dry cake mix and forms a golden, crisp top layer.

Yellow Cake Mix – The dry mix acts as a topping and blends into the gooey filling beneath. No mixing required.

Vanilla Extract – A touch of vanilla rounds out the flavors and adds warmth.

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How To Make the Easy Pecan Pie Dump Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.

Step 2: Make the Pecan Pie Layer

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, brown sugar, corn syrup, and vanilla extract until fully combined. Stir in the chopped pecans. Pour this mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Add the Cake Mix

Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the pecan mixture. Do not stir—it’s important the layers remain separate.

Step 4: Pour the Butter

Slowly drizzle the melted butter evenly over the entire top of the cake mix, covering as much of the surface as possible to help it brown and bake evenly.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Place the dish in the oven and bake for 45–50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. Let it cool for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set.

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How to Serve and Store Easy Pecan Pie Dump Cake

Serve this dump cake warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The contrast of hot, gooey cake with cold, creamy topping is irresistible!

To store, let the cake cool completely, then cover and refrigerate for up to 5 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 20–30 seconds. It also freezes well—just wrap tightly and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of nut?

Yes! Walnuts or chopped almonds can be used in place of pecans, though the flavor will change slightly.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can bake it a day in advance and store it covered in the fridge. Reheat before serving.

What if I don’t have corn syrup?

You can substitute with maple syrup or honey, but the texture may be slightly less gooey.

Do I stir the layers together?

No. Resist the urge to stir—keeping the layers separate gives this dessert its signature texture.

Can I use a gluten-free cake mix?

Yes, a gluten-free yellow cake mix works well in this recipe.

How do I know when it’s done baking?

The top should be golden brown and the edges should be bubbling. A toothpick inserted in the center may come out sticky, but not wet.

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Want More Cake Ideas with a Twist?

If you love this Easy Pecan Pie Dump Cake, you’ll definitely want to try these other crave-worthy desserts:

• Condensed Milk Snow Cookies for a melt-in-your-mouth winter treat.
• Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake bursting with creamy, fruity goodness.
• Caramel Cheesecake Cookies that combine everything you love in a bite-sized treat.
• Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake for even more gooey caramel flavor.
• Amish Applesauce Cake with cozy spice and incredible moisture.

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you swap in walnuts or drizzle caramel on top? Maybe even add a splash of bourbon?

I love seeing your twists and tips—drop them below! And if you’re looking for even more sweet inspiration, be sure to follow me over on Pinterest – Life with Jam where I post new ideas daily.

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