Pecan Pie Dump Cake offers the delightful flavors of classic pecan pie in a quick and easy dessert. This simple recipe combines the nuttiness of pecans with the sweetness of a creamy filling and a buttery cake topping, creating a luscious dessert that everyone will love.

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Why You’ll Love This Pecan Pie Dump Cake

This Pecan Pie Dump Cake is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. You can whip it up for family gatherings, holiday dinners, or just a cozy night in. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—layered ingredients that need no mixing! Plus, it brings the rich caramel and nutty flavors of pecan pie without all the fuss.

How to Make Pecan Pie Dump Cake

Ingredients:

1 cup chopped pecans
1 (15-ounce) can of sweetened condensed milk
1/2 cup maple syrup
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 (16-ounce) package of yellow cake mix
1 1/2 cups water
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
In a medium bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, maple syrup, melted butter, water, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
Spread the chopped pecans evenly along the bottom of the greased baking dish.
Pour the sweetened condensed milk mixture over the pecans, making sure it covers them evenly.
Open the package of yellow cake mix and sprinkle it evenly over the top of the liquid mixture in the baking dish. Do not stir; just let it rest on top.
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the cake mixture is set.
Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for about 15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes it easier to cut into squares.
Serve warm, optionally topped with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if desired.

How to Serve Pecan Pie Dump Cake

Pecan Pie Dump Cake is a versatile dessert. You can serve it warm or chilled, making it perfect for any occasion. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a delightful creaminess. Fresh fruit or a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce can enhance its flavors, making each serving a delightful experience.

How to Store Pecan Pie Dump Cake

If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store your Pecan Pie Dump Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave. You can enjoy it warm or cold, and it still tastes amazing!

Tips to Make Pecan Pie Dump Cake Perfect

Don’t Skip the Pecans: They add essential flavor and texture. For an extra treat, toast them slightly before using.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bring your ingredients to room temperature for better mixing and even baking.
Avoid Overbaking: Watch the cake carefully toward the end of the baking time. Overbaking can lead to a dry dessert.
Experiment with Toppings: Mix and match your favorite toppings to personalize this dessert. Fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar make lovely additions.

Flavor Variations

Get creative! You can experiment with different flavors and mix-ins:

Chocolate Chips: Add semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
Different Nuts: Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds if you prefer a different nutty taste.
Spices: Try adding nutmeg or ginger for extra warmth and flavor complexity.
Coconut: A sprinkle of shredded coconut can provide a unique tropical twist.

Pro Tips for Success

Use Quality Ingredients: The flavors of each ingredient matter. Use high-quality maple syrup and fresh pecans for the best results.
Check Your Oven: Oven temperatures can vary, so check your cake a few minutes before the end of the baking time to ensure perfect doneness.
Mix Carefully: For the best texture, avoid stirring the dry cake mix into the wet mixture; letting it sit on top creates a lovely crumb.
Serve with Care: Use a sharp knife to cut and serve nice squares for an attractive presentation.

FAQs About Pecan Pie Dump Cake

Can I make Pecan Pie Dump Cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dump cake in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just be sure to wrap it tightly. When you are ready to serve, bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes as needed.

Can I freeze Pecan Pie Dump Cake?
Absolutely! You can freeze the baked cake for up to three months. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat as desired.

What can I use instead of sweetened condensed milk?
You can use evaporated milk mixed with a bit of sugar as a substitute for sweetened condensed milk. It may alter the richness slightly but will still work well in the recipe.

Final Thoughts

Pecan Pie Dump Cake combines the beloved flavors of pecan pie with the ease of a dump cake. Its delightful textures and rich taste make it a hit at any gathering. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, you can treat your friends and family to a dessert that’s sure to impress. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful treat!

Pecan Pie Dump Cake