Pecan Pie Dump Cake

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Sure! Here’s a full-length, rich and flavorful recipe for Pecan Pie Dump Cake with history, background, detailed steps, tips, and even a sweet nod to dessert lovers.

Pecan Pie Dump Cake

A soul-warming Southern dessert that blends the ooey-gooey goodness of pecan pie with the simplicity of a cake mix.

Introduction: A Dessert Worth Falling For

Pecan pie is a Southern staple, known for its rich, sticky-sweet filling and crunchy pecan topping. Dump cakes, on the other hand, are beloved for their ease—no mixing bowls, no stand mixers, just layer, bake, and enjoy. Combine the two, and you’ve got Pecan Pie Dump Cake: a dessert that’s buttery, crunchy, caramelly, and decadently simple. It’s the kind of dish that fills kitchens with the aroma of fall and hearts with comfort. Whether you’re serving a crowd during the holidays or simply indulging in a weeknight treat, this dessert is bound to become a go-to favorite for sweet lovers everywhere.

History & Formation: From Pie to Dump Cake

Pecan pie dates back to the late 19th century in the American South, with pecans native to the region and corn syrup becoming a popular sweetener in the 20th century. Dump cakes, often considered a lazy baker’s delight, became popular in the 1960s and ’70s, when boxed cake mixes were booming. This mashup—Pecan Pie Dump Cake—is a relatively recent innovation, one that pays homage to traditional baking while embracing the convenience modern cooks love.

Ingredients

Wet Mixture:

  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
  • 1 cup light corn syrup
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Dry & Topping:

  • 1 box yellow cake mix (about 15.25 oz)
  • 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
  • Whole pecans for garnish (optional)
  • Caramel sauce for drizzling (optional)

Tools You’ll Need

  • 9×13-inch baking dish
  • Whisk and mixing bowl
  • Spatula
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • Non-stick spray or butter for greasing
  • Oven preheated to 350°F (175°C)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.

Step 2: Make the Pecan Pie Base

  • In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, evaporated milk, corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Add the Pecans

  • Stir in the chopped pecans and pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread evenly.

Step 4: Layer the Cake Mix

  • Evenly sprinkle the entire dry yellow cake mix over the pecan mixture. Do not stir—this is part of the “dump” method.

Step 5: Add the Butter

  • Drizzle melted butter over the cake mix as evenly as possible to ensure even baking and golden brown topping.

Step 6: Bake

  • Bake in the preheated oven for 50–60 minutes, or until the top is golden and the edges are bubbling. The center should be set but slightly gooey—like a pecan pie.

Step 7: Cool & Serve

  • Let cool for 15–20 minutes before serving. The filling will firm up slightly but still be deliciously gooey.

Optional Garnishes

  • Top with whole pecans before baking for extra crunch and presentation.
  • Drizzle caramel sauce just before serving for added sweetness and flair.
  • Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a luxurious finish.

Serving Suggestions for Lovers of Sweet Things

This dessert is for those who adore buttery textures, caramel notes, and nutty crunch. Perfect for:

  • Holiday meals like Thanksgiving or Christmas
  • Potlucks and bake sales
  • Late-night cravings with a cozy blanket and a good movie
  • Anniversary desserts when you want something sweet, simple, and satisfying

Tips & Tricks

  • Want more texture? Add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut or toffee bits to the pecan layer.
  • For a richer flavor, substitute maple syrup or dark corn syrup in place of the light corn syrup.
  • Use a spice cake mix for a warm, seasonal twist.

Conclusion: A Cake for the Ages

The Pecan Pie Dump Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s an experience. It marries old-fashioned flavor with modern convenience. It celebrates the soulful flavors of the South and the joy of simple baking. It’s a cake for lovers—of pecans, pie, cake, and everything in between. Bake it once, and you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe every time your sweet tooth calls.

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