There’s nothing quite like a warm, gooey dessert that has the power to make everything better, and trust me, the Pecan Pie Dump Cake is one of those magical creations. Imagine a rich, buttery cake topped with crunchy pecans and a sweet, caramel-like filling that oozes delight with each bite. This dish is not just food; it’s an experience filled with flavors that dance on your palate, leaving you craving more.
Now, picture this: It’s a chilly autumn evening, and the scent of toasted pecans wafts through your kitchen. You gather your loved ones around for a cozy family gathering. As you serve up slices of this delectable Pecan Pie Dump Cake, laughter fills the air while everyone eagerly digs in. The joy on their faces as they savor every bite makes all the effort worthwhile. This dessert isn’t just for special occasions; it’s perfect for any time you need a little sweetness in your life!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Pecan Pie Dump Cake is incredibly easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Its delightful blend of flavors will satisfy both sweet and nutty cravings in every bite.
- Visually appealing with its golden crust and glistening topping, it’s sure to impress at any dinner table.
- Enjoy it warm with ice cream or cold as a delicious snack—it’s versatile enough for any occasion!
Ingredients for Pecan Pie Dump Cake
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Yellow Cake Mix: A classic base that adds sweetness and lightness to the dump cake; no need to mix anything fancy.
- Pecans: Choose raw or toasted pecans for an added crunch; they give the cake its signature flavor.
- Unsalted Butter: Melted butter adds richness and moisture; it helps create that glorious texture we all love.
- Brown Sugar: Brown sugar provides depth and caramel notes; it’s what makes this cake taste like true pecan pie.
- Eggs: Large eggs bind everything together beautifully; without them, we’d have a crumbly mess instead of a delightful dessert.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla enhances all the other flavors; it brings harmony to our sweet creation.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Pecan Pie Dump Cake
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While you’re at it, grab a baking dish (a 9×13 inch works wonders) and lightly grease it with nonstick spray.
Step 2: Prepare Your Pecans
In a small bowl, chop about a cup of pecans into coarse pieces. If you’re feeling adventurous, toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant—this step adds an extra layer of flavor.
Step 3: Mix the Cake Base
In another large bowl, combine one box of yellow cake mix with half a cup of melted unsalted butter. Add two beaten eggs and one teaspoon of vanilla extract for extra flavor. Stir until everything comes together into a thick batter.
Step 4: Layering Time
Pour half of the cake batter into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle your chopped pecans over this layer like confetti—because who doesn’t love confetti?
Step 5: The Sweet Topping
In another bowl, mix one cup of brown sugar with one cup of water until combined. Slowly pour this mixture over the layered batter and pecans; don’t stir! Trust me—the magic happens in the oven.
Step 6: Bake It Up
Place your masterpiece in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top. The aroma will have everyone flocking to the kitchen like bees to honey!
Once done baking, let it cool slightly before serving. Transfer slices onto plates and serve warm—maybe even throw on some whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if you really want to impress!
You Must Know
- This Pecan Pie Dump Cake combines the rich flavors of pecan pie with the ease of a dump cake, making dessert a delightful breeze.
- With minimal effort, you create a decadent treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
- It’s sweet, nutty, and utterly satisfying!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve dessert perfection, start by preheating your oven while you gather your ingredients. Mix the cake mix and pour it over the pecans and filling in one smooth motion. Bake until golden, allowing those delicious aromas to fill your kitchen.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out pecans for walnuts or even add chocolate chips for an extra layer of flavor. A splash of vanilla extract or bourbon can elevate the taste. Get creative and make this recipe truly yours!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Enjoy that fresh-baked goodness again!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing and texture.
- Don’t overmix; just combine until moistened to avoid a dense cake.
- Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving for easier slicing and enhanced flavor.
Sometimes, I whip up this Pecan Pie Dump Cake for family gatherings and watch as everyone dives in with delight. The smiles on their faces make all the effort worthwhile!
FAQs :
What is Pecan Pie Dump Cake?
Pecan Pie Dump Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of pecan pie with the ease of a dump cake. This recipe typically includes ingredients like pecans, cake mix, and a sweet filling. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity; you literally “dump” the ingredients into a baking dish, mix them slightly, and let the oven do the work. It results in a deliciously gooey dessert with a crunchy topping that resembles traditional pecan pie.
How do you serve Pecan Pie Dump Cake?
Serving Pecan Pie Dump Cake is simple and versatile. You can enjoy it warm or at room temperature. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added richness. Drizzling caramel sauce over the top enhances the flavor even more. This dessert makes an excellent choice for gatherings, potlucks, or cozy family dinners, as it appeals to both kids and adults alike.
Can I make Pecan Pie Dump Cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Pecan Pie Dump Cake ahead of time. You can assemble the ingredients in advance and store them in the refrigerator for a day before baking. Alternatively, you can bake it, let it cool completely, and then refrigerate it. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it in the oven until warmed through. This makes it an ideal option when planning for parties or holiday gatherings.
What variations can I try with Pecan Pie Dump Cake?
There are many delicious variations to explore with Pecan Pie Dump Cake. You might consider adding chocolate chips for a decadent twist or substituting walnuts if you prefer them over pecans. Experimenting with flavored cake mixes or adding spices like cinnamon can also enhance the flavor profile. For those who enjoy fruit, incorporating dried cranberries or apples can create a unique combination that elevates this classic dessert.
Conclusion for Pecan Pie Dump Cake :
Pecan Pie Dump Cake offers an effortless way to indulge in the beloved flavors of pecan pie without extensive preparation time. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a warm dessert that delights everyone at your table. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with ice cream, this dish satisfies cravings while allowing for creative variations to suit your taste preference. Try making this easy dessert for your next gathering; it’s sure to impress!
Pecan Pie Dump Cake
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in this easy, gooey Pecan Pie Dump Cake that marries the rich flavors of pecan pie with a buttery cake—perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup pecans, chopped (raw or toasted)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup water
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
- In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix with melted butter, beaten eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
- Chop about a cup of pecans into coarse pieces. Optionally, toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant.
- Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle chopped pecans over this layer.
- In another bowl, mix brown sugar and water until combined. Slowly pour this mixture over the layered batter and pecans without stirring.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (approximately 100g)
- Calories: 323
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 62mg
Keywords: Substitute pecans with walnuts or add chocolate chips for extra flavor. Enhance taste by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.
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