Print

Gooey Pecan Pie Dump Cake

Gooey Pecan Pie Dump Cake - featured image

This easy homemade dessert combines the gooey richness of pecan pie with the simplicity of a dump cake, featuring crisp caramelized edges and a buttery, nutty flavor. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or cozy nights in, it’s a crowd-pleaser that comes together quickly with pantry staples.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • 1 cup light corn syrup
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups pecan halves, roughly chopped
  • 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
  • 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, sliced thin and chilled
  • Optional: 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • Optional: 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
  • Optional: 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place rack in the middle position.
  2. Lightly butter or spray a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  3. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together brown sugar, corn syrup, eggs, melted butter, vanilla, and salt until smooth and glossy. If using cinnamon or heavy cream, whisk them in now.
  4. Fold in chopped pecans until evenly distributed.
  5. Pour pecan mixture into prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
  6. Evenly sprinkle yellow cake mix over the pecan filling. Do not stir.
  7. Thinly slice cold butter and lay pieces evenly over the cake mix, covering as much surface as possible.
  8. Bake for 40-50 minutes, until edges are bubbling and deep golden brown and the center is slightly jiggly.
  9. Remove from oven and cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes to set.
  10. Cut into squares and serve warm or at room temperature. For clean slices, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water.

Notes

For extra gooeyness, add heavy cream to the filling. Use fresh pecans for best flavor. Cover cake mix evenly with thin butter slices to avoid dry spots. Gluten-free and dairy-free adaptations are easy with substitutions. Cake can be made ahead, stored in the fridge, or frozen for up to 2 months. Serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream for a decadent treat.

Nutrition

Keywords: pecan pie dump cake, easy dessert, holiday baking, potluck dessert, caramelized edges, gooey cake, southern dessert, fall baking, Thanksgiving dessert