Imagine a warm, gooey dessert that fills your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of toasted pecans and buttery goodness. This Pecan Dump Cake is a delightful mix of sweet, crunchy, and creamy textures that come together effortlessly. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll create a luscious cake that’s perfect for any occasion. Each bite offers a heavenly combination of rich flavors, making it hard to resist going back for seconds. Trust me, once you try this easy recipe, it’ll become your go-to dessert for gatherings and cozy nights in!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a breeze to make—just dump and bake!
- Trust me, you’re going to love the gooey, rich flavors.
- This one’s a game-changer for last-minute gatherings.
- Perfectly combines sweet and nutty for a delightful treat.
- Minimal cleanup means more time to enjoy your dessert!
Recipe Snapshot
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Category | Side Dish |
Cuisine | American-inspired comfort food |
Prep Time | 10 minutes |
Cook Time | 15 minutes |
Total Time | 25 minutes |
Dietary | Vegetarian |
Serves | 4 |
Best Served | Hot and cheesy right off the cob! |
Ingredients
- Pecan halves – Adds a delightful crunch and rich flavor.
- Yellow cake mix – The base of the cake, providing sweetness and texture.
- Butter – Ensures moisture and richness in the cake.
- Eggs – Helps bind the ingredients together for a cohesive texture.
- Brown sugar – Adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness.
- Vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Milk – Contributes to the cake’s moistness and softness.

Ingredients with measurements will be right under the article in the recipe card.
How to Make the Recipe
Get ready to whip up a delicious Pecan Dump Cake with these easy steps!
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Collect all your ingredients: pecans, cake mix, butter, and any extras you love!
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and let it warm up while you prepare.
Step 3: Prepare the Baking Dish
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray for easy cleanup.
Step 4: Layer the Ingredients
Start by spreading the pecans evenly at the bottom of the dish.
Step 5: Add the Cake Mix
Sprinkle the dry cake mix over the pecans, covering them completely.
Step 6: Pour the Butter
Melt the butter and drizzle it over the cake mix, ensuring even coverage.
Step 7: Add Water
Pour water over the entire mixture, but don’t stir! Let the magic happen.
Step 8: Bake the Cake
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Let it cool for a few minutes, then scoop and serve warm. Enjoy!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Use fresh pecans for the best flavor and crunch.
- Experiment with different cake mixes for unique twists.
- Don’t skip the butter; it adds richness and moisture.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat.
- Let it cool slightly before serving to enhance the texture.
How to Serve
- Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a creamy contrast.
- Drizzle warm caramel sauce over each slice for extra sweetness.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for a light touch.
- Pair with fresh berries for a burst of freshness.
- Enjoy it warm with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat.
- Sprinkle with extra chopped pecans for added crunch.
- Try it with a scoop of chocolate ice cream for a decadent twist.
- Serve alongside a slice of apple pie for a dessert duo.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Pecan Dump Cake fresh:
- Allow it to cool completely.
- Cover with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing
To freeze your Pecan Dump Cake:
- Cool the cake completely before freezing.
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating
For the best texture and taste when reheating:
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
- Serve warm for the best flavor experience.
FAQs
What is Pecan Dump Cake?
Pecan Dump Cake is a simple and delicious dessert made by layering ingredients like pecans, cake mix, and butter. It’s a no-fuss recipe that results in a rich, gooey treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Absolutely! While pecans are traditional, you can substitute with walnuts or almonds for a different flavor. Just keep in mind that the texture and taste will vary slightly.
How do I store leftover Pecan Dump Cake?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage; just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.
Can I make Pecan Dump Cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and assemble them just before baking. This makes it a great option for parties or gatherings, allowing you to enjoy more time with your guests!
Final Thoughts
There you have it—Pecan Dump Cake, a delightful dessert that’s as easy as it is delicious! With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a treat that’s sure to bring smiles and warm memories. So go ahead, gather your loved ones, and indulge in this sweet, nutty goodness. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked! Enjoy every bite!

Pecan Dump Cake
Equipment
- 1 9×13 inch baking dish Greased with butter or cooking spray for easy cleanup.
Ingredients
Pecan halves
- 1 box Yellow cake mix The base of the cake, providing sweetness and texture.
- 1/2 cup Butter Ensures moisture and richness in the cake.
- 2 large Eggs Helps bind the ingredients together for a cohesive texture.
- 1/2 cup Brown sugar Adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1 cup Milk Contributes to the cake’s moistness and softness.
Instructions
- Collect all your ingredients: pecans, cake mix, butter, and any extras you love!
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and let it warm up while you prepare.
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray for easy cleanup.
- Start by spreading the pecans evenly at the bottom of the dish.
- Sprinkle the dry cake mix over the pecans, covering them completely.
- Melt the butter and drizzle it over the cake mix, ensuring even coverage.
- Pour water over the entire mixture, but don’t stir! Let the magic happen.
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Let it cool for a few minutes, then scoop and serve warm. Enjoy!