The aroma of warm pecan pie is synonymous with comfort and Southern hospitality. But the classic recipe can be surprisingly time-consuming. This easy pecan pie dump cake offers all the deliciousness of a traditional pecan pie with a fraction of the effort. Get ready to impress your guests with this incredibly simple yet decadent dessert!
What is a Dump Cake?
Before we dive into the recipe, let's clarify what a dump cake is. It's a wonderfully easy dessert that lives up to its name – you simply "dump" the ingredients into a baking dish and bake! No fussy mixing or intricate techniques required, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a delicious treat without the fuss. This pecan pie version takes that simplicity and elevates it to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Easy Pecan Pie Dump Cake Ingredients:
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) yellow cake mix
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan. This will prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
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Layer the Cake Mix: Pour the entire box of yellow cake mix evenly into the prepared baking pan. Distribute it as evenly as possible to create a consistent base.
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Scatter the Pecans: Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly over the cake mix layer. This adds a delightful crunch and enhances the pecan pie flavor.
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Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined. Make sure there are no lumps.
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Pour Over Pecans: Slowly pour the wet ingredient mixture over the layer of pecans and cake mix. Try to distribute it evenly, but don't worry about perfect coverage; it will bake beautifully.
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Drizzle with Melted Butter: Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the entire mixture. This adds richness and helps create a moist and tender crumb topping.
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Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Cool & Serve: Let the cake cool slightly before serving. It's best served warm, but it's equally delicious at room temperature.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a different type of cake mix?
Yes! While yellow cake mix provides a classic flavor profile, you can experiment with other flavors, such as spice cake or even chocolate cake mix, for a unique twist. The result will still be delicious, just with a different base flavor.
How can I make this cake even more decadent?
Consider adding a layer of caramel sauce to the bottom of the pan before adding the cake mix. You could also add a sprinkle of sea salt on top after baking for a delightful sweet and salty contrast. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream would also elevate the experience.
Can I make this ahead of time?
While this cake is best served fresh from the oven, you can bake it a day or two in advance. Store it, covered, at room temperature. Reheating a slice in the microwave for a few seconds will restore its warm, gooey texture.
What kind of pecans should I use?
Use whatever type of pecans you prefer! Halved pecans, chopped pecans, or even pecan pieces will work well. Just ensure they are relatively evenly sized for even distribution in the cake.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
No, this recipe uses a traditional yellow cake mix, which contains gluten. To make it gluten-free, you would need to substitute a gluten-free cake mix. Be sure to check the ingredients list on the cake mix box to confirm it's suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
This easy pecan pie dump cake recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its simplicity makes it perfect for beginner bakers, while its delicious results satisfy even the most discerning dessert lover. Enjoy!
