Description: A ridiculously easy and delicious dessert that combines the classic flavors of pecan pie with the simplicity of a dump cake. This Pecan Pie Dump Cake is perfect for potlucks, holidays, or any time you need a fuss-free dessert that’s guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients:
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup corn syrup (light or dark)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups chopped pecans
- ½ tsp salt
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the cake bakes evenly and achieves that perfect golden-brown color. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This prevents the cake from sticking to the dish and makes it easy to serve.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the corn syrup, eggs, brown sugar, vanilla extract, melted butter, and salt. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well combined and the mixture is smooth. This step is crucial for creating the gooey, sweet base of the dump cake.
Step 3: Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the greased baking dish. Do not stir or mix the cake mix with the wet ingredients at this stage. The cake mix should form a dry layer on top of the wet mixture.
Step 4: Evenly distribute the chopped pecans over the dry cake mix. The pecans will add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the cake.
Step 5: Pour the corn syrup mixture evenly over the top of the cake mix and pecans. Ensure that the dry cake mix is thoroughly covered with the syrup mixture. This will help the cake bake properly and create a moist and gooey texture.
Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes. The cake is done when the top is golden brown and the center is mostly set but still slightly gooey. The gooey center is what makes this dump cake so irresistible!
Step 7: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the cake to set up slightly and makes it easier to slice and serve.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Pecan Pie Dump Cake is a winner for so many reasons:
- Ease of Preparation: With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can whip up a truly decadent dessert. No fancy techniques or complicated steps required!
- Classic Flavors: The combination of pecans, brown sugar, and corn syrup creates that unmistakable pecan pie flavor that everyone loves.
- Gooey Texture: The center of this cake remains wonderfully gooey, providing a delightful contrast to the crunchy pecans on top.
- Versatility: This dump cake is perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight desserts to festive holiday gatherings.
- Crowd-Pleaser: It’s nearly impossible to resist a slice of this Pecan Pie Dump Cake, making it a guaranteed hit with family and friends.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra layer of indulgence.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce or chocolate syrup for added richness.
- Garnish with extra chopped pecans for a beautiful presentation.
- Enjoy it with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy and comforting treat.
Tips:
- For a richer flavor, use dark corn syrup instead of light corn syrup.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake mix for a warm and comforting spice twist.
- If you prefer a less gooey cake, bake it for a few extra minutes until the center is more set.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, microwave individual slices for a few seconds or warm them in a low oven.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Nutritional Information: (approximate, per serving)
- Calories: 300
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 200mg
Conclusion
The Pecan Pie Dump Cake is a simple yet indulgent dessert that captures the essence of pecan pie in an easy-to-make format. Its combination of convenience and delicious flavors makes it a perfect choice for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. So, gather your ingredients and prepare to be amazed by the ease and scrumptiousness of this delightful Pecan Pie Dump Cake!
5 Questions and Answers About This Recipe
- Can I use a different type of nut instead of pecans? Absolutely! While pecans are traditional for pecan pie, you can substitute them with other nuts like walnuts, almonds, or even a mix of different nuts. Just be sure to chop them to a similar size as the pecans for even distribution.
- Can I use a different type of cake mix? Yes, you can experiment with different cake mix flavors. Spice cake mix would add a warm, cozy flavor, while butter pecan cake mix would enhance the nutty notes. Chocolate cake mix could give it a brownie vibe.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the Pecan Pie Dump Cake a day ahead of time. Just store it covered at room temperature or in the refrigerator. Reheat slightly before serving for the best flavor and texture.
- How do I prevent the top from browning too quickly? If you notice the top of the cake browning too quickly, you can tent it with aluminum foil during the last 15-20 minutes of baking. This will help prevent it from burning while the center continues to bake.
- Is it normal for the center to be gooey? Yes, the gooey center is a characteristic of Pecan Pie Dump Cake! It’s what gives it that decadent, pecan pie-like texture. If you prefer a less gooey cake, you can bake it for a few extra minutes, but be careful not to overbake it, or it will become dry.
