There’s something incredibly comforting about the combination of sweet, gooey cake and crunchy pecans baked together into a warm, decadent dessert. This Pecan Dump Cake is a crowd-pleasing, no-fuss dessert that’s perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or even a cozy evening at home. With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, this dump cake is as easy to make as it is delicious. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating a dessert that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make. Here’s why it’s a favorite
Warm and Cozy: The combination of cake mix, canned fruit, and melted butter creates a warm, comforting dessert that’s perfect for chilly evenings.
Decadent Yet Simple: With minimal effort, you can enjoy a rich, gooey cake topped with crunchy pecans. Perfect for those who love dessert but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
Customizable: Swap out the fruit or nuts for your favorite variations—peaches, pineapple, or walnuts. The possibilities are endless!
Perfect for Sharing: This dessert is ideal for gatherings or potlucks. The large pan ensures there’s plenty to go around.
Indulgent Yet Approachable: The combination of cake mix, fruit, and nuts makes this dessert accessible for everyone, from novice bakers to seasoned chefs
Ingredients
Yellow Cake Mix: Provides the base for the cake. Choose a box mix for convenience.
Pineapple or Apple Slices: Canned fruit adds sweetness and moisture to the cake. Drain the liquid before using.
Mini Marshmallows: Adds a gooey, marshmallowy texture to the top layer.
Pecans: Crushed pecans provide a crunchy, nutty topping that contrasts beautifully with the soft cake.
Butter: Melted butter is drizzled over the top to create a rich, caramelized crust.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile of the cake. Use pure vanilla extract for the best results.
Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this delightful dessert
Prepare the Pan: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
Layer the Ingredients: In the prepared pan, layer the yellow cake mix, drained pineapple or apple slices, and mini marshmallows.
Top with Pecans: Sprinkle crushed pecans evenly over the top of the marshmallows.
Drizzle with Butter: Drizzle melted butter over the entire surface.
Bake to Perfection: Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the marshmallows are melted.
Serve and Enjoy: Let the cake cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 12
Calories per serving: 350
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
How to Serve Pecan Dump Cake
This dessert pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your experience
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Whipped Cream: Top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream for a light, airy contrast.
Fresh Berries: Serve with a side of fresh strawberries or raspberries for a burst of freshness.
As a Standalone: Sometimes, this cake is rich enough to enjoy on its own. Simply savor each gooey, nutty bite
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe
Use Fresh Fruit: If you prefer, use fresh pineapple or apples instead of canned. Adjust the cooking time slightly to account for the moisture content.
Adjust the Sweetness: Taste the cake mix before adding the fruit and adjust the sweetness to your liking. Some cake mixes can be very sweet on their own.
Double the Batch: This recipe scales easily, so feel free to double it for larger gatherings or meal prep.
Freeze for Later: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven before serving.
Experiment with Variations: Try different fruits like peaches, pears, or cherries for a seasonal twist. Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds for added variety
FAQ Section
1. Can I use a different type of cake mix? Yes! Any flavor of cake mix yellow, white, or even spice cake works well in this recipe. Choose based on your preference.
2. What type of fruit should I use? Pineapple or apple slices are classic choices, but you can use peaches, pears, or berries for variety.
3. Can I make this cake ahead of time? You can prepare the cake up to a day in advance and refrigerate it. Simply bake when ready for optimal freshness.
4. How do I store leftover cake? Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven before serving.
5. Can I freeze this cake? While freezing is possible, the texture of the cake may suffer upon thawing. Best enjoyed fresh.
6. Can I double the recipe? Definitely. Doubling the recipe is simple and ensures you have plenty for leftovers or feeding a crowd.
7. Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet? Not as written, but you can replace the cake mix with almond flour or coconut flour for a lower-carb option.
8. Can I skip the pecans? You can, though pecans add crunch and flavor. Substitute with chopped nuts or omit entirely for a nut-free version.
9. Do I need to use canned fruit? Canned fruit works well for convenience, but fresh fruit can be used if preferred. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
10. Can I add chocolate chips? Absolutely! Stir in chocolate chips with the cake mix for an extra indulgent twist
Conclusion
There you have it a delicious and comforting Pecan Dump Cake that’s sure to become a go-to dessert in your kitchen. With its gooey, fruity layers and crunchy pecan topping, it’s a dessert that satisfies both your cravings and nostalgia. So gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and let’s bake something amazing together! Your taste buds will thank you
Print
Pecan Dump Cake
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: For a crunchier texture, toast the pecans before using. If you prefer a richer flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon to the pecan mixture. Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for the best experience!
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern, American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Pecan Dump Cake is a rich and gooey dessert with layers of buttery pecans, brown sugar, and a moist cake topping. Perfect for holidays or a cozy treat!
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 2 cups dark brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup dark corn syrup (such as Karo syrup)
- 1/2 cup salted butter, melted and cooled
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 3 cups pecan halves
For the Topping:
- 15.25 ounces white cake mix (Duncan Hines Classic White recommended)
- 3/4 cup salted butter, melted and cooled
- 3/4 cup dark brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup hot water
- 1 cup pecan halves
- Caramel topping (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Oven & Dish
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Generously spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
Make the Filling
- In a medium mixing bowl (2-3 quarts), whisk together 2 cups brown sugar, dark corn syrup, ½ cup melted butter, eggs, and vanilla until well combined.
- Stir in 3 cups pecan halves.
- Evenly spread the pecan mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Add the Topping
- Sprinkle the dry white cake mix evenly over the pecan filling.
- Drizzle the remaining ¾ cup melted butter over the dry cake mix.
- Sprinkle the ¾ cup dark brown sugar over the butter layer.
- Pour the hot water over the top of the cake mix. Do not stir—tilt the pan gently to help distribute the water.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup pecan halves on top.
Bake the Cake
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Check at 30 minutes, as baking times may vary.
- The center will be slightly jiggly but will firm up as it cools.
Cool & Serve
- Allow the cake to cool completely before serving.
- Drizzle with caramel topping if desired. Enjoy warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!
Notes
- For a crunchier texture, toast the pecans before using.
- If you prefer a richer flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon to the pecan mixture.
- Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for the best experience!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ¾ cup
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 42g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 55mg