Nothing says comfort like a warm slice of pecan pie—except maybe a pecan pie dump cake. This dreamy dessert brings the rich, caramelized nuttiness of traditional pecan pie together with the ease and heartiness of a classic dump cake. It’s a cold-weather favorite in my family, and the first time I had it was at my grandma’s farmhouse during a snowy Tennessee winter.
Every year, she’d bake something to warm our hearts—and our bellies. One year, she surprised us with this genius twist: everything we loved about pecan pie, but with the golden, buttery topping of a dump cake. Let me tell you, it was love at first bite. Now, I make it for every holiday dinner and cozy winter weekend.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving something sweet and simple, this pecan pie dump cake is about to become your new favorite go-to.
Why You’ll Love This Pecan Pie Dump Cake
- Super easy No pie crust, no mixer, no fuss!
- Perfect for holidays A hit at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any winter gathering.
- Sweet and crunchy Gooey pecan filling meets buttery cake topping.
- Minimal ingredients Pantry-friendly and budget-conscious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this winter classic. You probably already have most of these in your kitchen!
For the Filling:
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 cups pecan halves
For the Cake Topping:
- 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter (cut into thin slices)
Pro Tip: Want an extra layer of flavor? Add a splash of bourbon or a pinch of cinnamon to the filling!
How to Make Pecan Pie Dump Cake
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
Total Time: ~1 hour
Servings: 8
1. Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Make the Pecan Pie Filling
In a large bowl, whisk together the corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla, salt, and melted butter. Stir in the pecan halves until well coated.
3. Pour and Layer
Pour the pecan mixture into your prepared dish. Then, evenly sprinkle the entire box of cake mix over the top. Don’t stir!
4. Add Butter
Place the thin butter slices evenly across the top of the cake mix. As the cake bakes, the butter melts and creates that signature dump cake topping.
5. Bake to Perfection
Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. The center should be set but still a little soft—like a pie.
6. Cool & Serve
Let the cake cool for about 15–20 minutes before serving. It firms up as it cools and becomes even more delicious.
Serve with: Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat!
Storage Tips
- Fridge: Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: You can freeze it for up to 3 months—just thaw in the fridge and reheat before serving.
Variations & Add-Ons
Looking to switch it up? Try these delicious tweaks:
- Chocolate Chip Pecan Dump Cake Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips over the pecan layer before the cake mix.
- Maple Pecan Version Substitute maple syrup for corn syrup for a deeper flavor.
- Mini Pecan Dump Cakes Use muffin tins for individual servings.
FAQs About Pecan Pie Dump Cake
Can I use a different cake mix flavor?
Yes! Butter pecan, spice, or even chocolate cake mix can give your dessert a fun twist.
Do I need to toast the pecans first?
Not required, but toasting them lightly in a dry skillet for 5 minutes brings out extra flavor.
Is this overly sweet?
It is sweet—like any pie—but the buttery cake balances it beautifully. A pinch of salt helps cut the sweetness, too.
Perfect Pairings for Your Pecan Pie Dump Cake
If you’re serving this dessert as part of a winter feast, here are some cozy combos to try:
- Main dish: Southern-style roast chicken or glazed ham
- Side: Sweet potato casserole or cornbread dressing
- Drink: Hot cider, coffee, or spiked eggnog
Wrapping Up: Your Go-To Winter Dessert
When the nights are long and chilly, there’s nothing more satisfying than a slice of this pecan pie dump cake. It’s rustic, rich, and ridiculously easy to make. Whether you’re keeping warm by the fire or hosting a festive gathering, this dessert will hit the sweet spot every time.
This recipe has been passed down, shared, and adored in my family for years—and I hope it becomes a staple in your home too.