Description: This Pecan Pie Dump Cake is a decadent and incredibly easy dessert that combines the classic flavors of pecan pie with the simplicity of a dump cake. A rich, gooey pecan filling is topped with a buttery, crumbly cake layer, creating a dessert that’s both comforting and impressive. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or any occasion where you need a quick and satisfying treat.
Ingredients:
Pecan Mixture:
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 cup caramel topping (such as Smucker’s)
- ½ cup salted caramel topping (such as Ghirardelli)
- ¼ cup (2 ounces) unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cups pecan halves or pieces
Cake Topping:
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) Butter Pecan Cake Mix (or White Cake Mix)
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
Garnish (Optional):
- ½ cup crushed or halved pecans
- Additional salted caramel topping for drizzling
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 13×9-inch baking pan generously with baking spray. Make sure to coat the bottom and sides well to prevent sticking. A glass or metal pan will work fine.
Step 2: Prepare the Pecan Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the lightly beaten eggs, packed brown sugar, caramel topping, salted caramel topping, and melted butter. Use a whisk to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly combined and the mixture is smooth. The brown sugar should be fully incorporated, leaving no lumps. The mixture should have a rich, caramel color.
Step 3: Incorporate the Pecans
Gently fold in the pecan halves or pieces to the wet mixture. Stir until the pecans are evenly distributed throughout the caramel mixture. Ensure that all pecans are coated with the caramel and egg mixture. The pecan mixture should be thick and substantial.
Step 4: Pour Pecan Mixture Into the Pan
Pour the pecan mixture into the prepared 13×9-inch baking pan. Spread the mixture evenly across the bottom of the pan using a spatula or the back of a spoon. This ensures that the pecan layer bakes uniformly.
Step 5: Prepare the Cake Topping
In another bowl, combine the Butter Pecan Cake Mix (or White Cake Mix) with the melted butter. Use a fork or your hands to mix the cake mix and butter together until it forms a crumbly mixture. The mixture should resemble coarse crumbs. The butter should be evenly distributed throughout the cake mix.
Step 6: Sprinkle the Cake Topping
Sprinkle the crumbly cake mix evenly over the pecan filling. Make sure to cover the entire surface of the pecan mixture. If you have larger clumps of the cake mix, break them up with your fingers to ensure even distribution.
Step 7: Bake the Cake
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the pecan filling is bubbling around the edges. The cake topping should be set and lightly browned. A toothpick inserted into the cake topping should come out with moist crumbs, but not wet batter.
Step 8: Cool and Garnish (Optional)
Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for at least 15-20 minutes before cutting and serving. This allows the pecan filling to set slightly and prevents it from being too runny. If desired, garnish the cake with crushed or halved pecans and drizzle with additional salted caramel topping.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
This Pecan Pie Dump Cake is a delightful combination of convenience and deliciousness. It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort and ingredients, yet it delivers a dessert that tastes like it took hours to prepare. The gooey pecan filling provides a rich, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the buttery, crumbly cake topping. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. Plus, the versatility of using either Butter Pecan or White Cake Mix allows you to customize the flavor profile to your preference.
Cooking Rating: Easy
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The coldness of the ice cream provides a nice contrast to the warm cake.
- Drizzle with extra salted caramel sauce for added richness and flavor.
- Serve with a cup of coffee or tea to complement the sweetness of the cake.
- For a more elegant presentation, dust the cake with powdered sugar before serving.
- Pairs well with other fall flavors such as apple cider or pumpkin spice lattes.
Tips:
- Use Quality Ingredients: The flavor of the cake depends heavily on the quality of the ingredients. Use a good quality caramel topping and salted caramel topping for the best results.
- Don’t Overbake: Overbaking can result in a dry cake topping. Bake until the top is golden brown and the pecan filling is bubbling around the edges.
- Cooling Time: Allowing the cake to cool for at least 15-20 minutes before serving is crucial. This allows the pecan filling to set and prevents it from being too runny.
- Customize the Nuts: Feel free to use a mix of different nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, in addition to or instead of pecans.
- Cake Mix Alternatives: If you don’t have Butter Pecan Cake Mix, a yellow cake mix or spice cake mix can be substituted.
- Storing Leftovers: Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 25-30 minutes Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 350-400 (depending on serving size and toppings)
- Protein: 4-5g
- Sodium: 200-250mg
Conclusion:
The Pecan Pie Dump Cake is a simple yet satisfying dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Its ease of preparation and delicious flavor make it a go-to recipe for those looking for a quick and impressive treat. Whether you’re serving it warm with ice cream or enjoying it with a cup of coffee, this dump cake is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the delightful combination of gooey pecans and buttery cake in every bite!
Questions and Answers about Pecan Pie Dump Cake:
Q1: Can I use a sugar-free cake mix to make this recipe healthier?
A1: Yes, you can substitute a regular cake mix with a sugar-free version. Keep in mind that the taste and texture might be slightly different, as sugar contributes to both sweetness and moisture. If using a sugar-free mix, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor and compensate for any potential lack of sweetness. Also, check the ingredients of the sugar-free mix, as some may contain artificial sweeteners that can affect the overall taste.
Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! This Pecan Pie Dump Cake can be made a day or two in advance. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it at room temperature or in the refrigerator. Before serving, you can warm it up slightly in the oven or microwave. Keep in mind that storing it in the refrigerator might make the cake a bit denser, so warming it up before serving is recommended to restore some of its original texture.
Q3: What if I don’t have salted caramel topping? Can I use regular caramel topping instead?
A3: Yes, you can definitely use regular caramel topping if you don’t have salted caramel topping on hand. However, the salted caramel adds a nice depth of flavor that complements the sweetness of the caramel and brown sugar. If you’re using regular caramel topping, consider adding a pinch of sea salt to the pecan mixture to replicate the salted caramel flavor. Start with about ¼ teaspoon and adjust to your taste.
Q4: Can I add other spices to enhance the flavor of this dump cake?
A4: Absolutely! Adding spices can elevate the flavor profile of this dump cake. Cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of cloves can all complement the pecan and caramel flavors. You can add about ½ teaspoon of cinnamon and ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg to the pecan mixture or to the cake mix before combining it with the melted butter. This will add a warm, comforting spice note that is particularly enjoyable during the fall and winter months.
Q5: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
**A5: To make this recipe gluten-free, you would need to substitute the regular cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix. Ensure the gluten-free cake mix is a 1-to-1 replacement for traditional cake mix to maintain the correct texture and consistency. Be sure to check all other ingredients to confirm they are gluten-free as well, especially caramel toppings and any added nuts. Different gluten-free cake mixes will vary in taste and texture, so read reviews and choose one that is well-regarded for baking similar desserts.
