What you’ll need
Gather these essential ingredients for a delightful Pecan Pie Dump Cake:
- 1 cup pecan halves
- 2 cups yellow cake mix
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
Substitutions: If you don’t have yellow cake mix, you can try using a butter cake mix for a similar flavor profile. For those who prefer a nuttier taste, consider adding chopped walnuts alongside the pecans!
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Pour the melted butter evenly into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Scatter the pecan halves over the melted butter.
- In a separate bowl, mix together brown sugar, water, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until the mixture is smooth.
- Pour this sweet mixture over the pecans.
- Top everything with the yellow cake mix; do not stir!
- Bake for about 35-40 minutes until the top is golden-brown and the edges are bubbling.
- Allow it to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. For an indulgent touch, consider adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.
Best ways to enjoy it
Serving Pecan Pie Dump Cake is all about creativity! While it’s delicious on its own, you can elevate the experience by serving it warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. For a gourmet twist, drizzle it with caramel sauce or spoon over some warm chocolate sauce. Pairing it with coffee or a glass of sweet tea will also enhance its deliciousness.
Keeping leftovers fresh
Storing your Pecan Pie Dump Cake is easy! If you have leftovers, allow them to cool completely and then cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you’re looking to save some for later, this dump cake can also be frozen. Just slice it into portions, wrap them individually, and store in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
Helpful cooking tips
- Be sure to use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the dessert.
- Mixing the wet ingredients well ensures that the sugar dissolves properly, resulting in a smoother taste.
- If you want to cut down on sugar, consider reducing the brown sugar slightly, though it may change the overall texture a bit.
Recipe variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Add a touch of orange zest for citrus freshness or swap out the pecans for crushed almonds or hazelnuts. You can even experiment by mixing in chocolate chips or dried fruit for a chewy texture. And for a seasonal twist, try adding pumpkin pie spice instead of cinnamon during the fall months—it’ll pack a cozy flavor punch!
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare?
The prep time for this recipe is only about 10 minutes! Baking time is around 35-40 minutes, making it a quick option for any occasion.
Can I use a different cake mix?
Yes! While yellow cake mix works best for traditional flavor, any flavor of cake mix can be used to create your own unique dessert.
How should I reheat leftovers?
To reheat, simply place the portion in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds, or until warmed through. You can also warm it in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
Now you’re ready to create this delightful Pecan Pie Dump Cake that’s sure to steal the show at your next gathering. Happy baking!
