Cozy Pecan Dump Cake Recipe: Rustic Sweetness in Every Bite

Sweet memories often swirl around this delightful pecan dump cake that brings comfort to any gathering.

Layers of simplicity make this dessert a true winner for busy home cooks.

Nobody needs complicated techniques when such magic happens with minimal effort.

Buttery crumbs mingle with nutty pecans, creating a dessert that feels like a warm hug.

Moist and rich, each bite promises pure indulgence without complicated steps.

Casual baking skills work perfectly here, so you can confidently create something deliciously impressive.

Grab a fork and prepare to savor every delectable crumb of this irresistible treat.

Best Ways to Store Pecan Dump Cake

• Store leftover pecan dump cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.
• Refrigeration helps maintain the cake's moisture and prevents spoilage.
• For longer storage, freeze the cake in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

FAQs

• What are the key ingredients in this Pecan Dump Cake?

The key ingredients are cake mix, pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, chopped pecans, and melted butter. These simple ingredients create a delicious, easy-to-make dessert.

• Is this recipe complicated to make?

No, it’s extremely simple! You just layer ingredients in order and bake. The “dump” in the name means you literally dump ingredients into the pan without complicated mixing or preparation.

• Can I make this recipe without pumpkin?

Yes, absolutely! If you don’t want to use pumpkin, you can skip that layer entirely or substitute with another fruit puree like apple sauce or even a thin layer of fruit preserves.

Why Pecan Dump Cake Is A Crowd-Pleaser

• Simplify Baking: This recipe eliminates complex steps, allowing even novice bakers to create a delicious dessert with minimal kitchen skills.
• Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for potlucks, holiday gatherings, and family dinners, the cake appeals to both kids and adults with its rich, comforting flavors.
• Quick Ingredient Assembly: Dump-style preparation means tossing ingredients directly into the baking dish without measuring or complicated mixing techniques.
• Seasonal Comfort Dessert: Featuring pecans and optional pumpkin, this cake captures cozy autumn vibes while delivering a warm, satisfying treat that feels like a homemade hug.

Ingredients That Build Pecan Dump Cake

• Pumpkin Puree: A smooth and creamy vegetable that adds moisture and autumn flavor to the dessert.
• Cake Mix: A convenient blend of dry ingredients that forms the cake's foundation.
• Evaporated Milk: A rich and concentrated milk that helps create a creamy texture.

• Pecans: A crunchy and buttery nut that provides a delightful textural contrast to the soft cake.

• Butter: A rich and flavorful ingredient that adds richness and helps the cake achieve a golden brown color.

Stepwise Guide to Pecan Dump Cake

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Turn your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) and let it preheat while you prepare the ingredients.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Generously coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Create the First Layer

Spread a smooth, even layer of pumpkin puree across the bottom of the baking dish if you’re using it for extra moisture and flavor.

Step 4: Sprinkle the Cake Base

Evenly scatter dry cake mix over the pumpkin layer, covering the entire surface completely.

Step 5: Add Creamy Moisture

Slowly pour evaporated milk across the cake mix, ensuring it covers the entire surface and starts to soak into the dry mix.

Step 6: Scatter Nutty Goodness

Distribute chopped pecans uniformly over the top of the milk-soaked cake mix, creating a delicious crunchy layer.

Step 7: Drench with Butter

Pour melted butter over the entire dish, allowing it to seep into all the layers and create a rich, indulgent texture.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes until the top turns a beautiful golden brown and the edges become bubbly.

Step 9: Rest and Serve

Remove from the oven and let the dump cake cool slightly for 10-15 minutes, then serve warm for maximum enjoyment.

Tips to Maximize Pecan Dump Cake Flavor

• Swap pumpkin puree with other seasonal fruits like apple or cherry pie filling for variety in flavors and textures.
• Use gluten-free cake mix to make this dessert suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Enhance the nutty taste by toasting pecans before adding them to the recipe, which intensifies their rich, warm flavor.
• Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream to elevate the dessert's richness and create a delightful contrast.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for extended freshness.

Flavorful Twists to Enjoy with Pecan Dump Cake

• Gluten-Free Pecan Cake: Replace regular cake mix with gluten-free cake mix to accommodate wheat sensitivities.
• Apple Spice Version: Swap pumpkin puree with apple butter and add cinnamon for a warm, autumnal flavor profile.
• Vegan Nutty Cake: Use coconut milk instead of evaporated milk, plant-based butter, and dairy-free cake mix to create a compassionate dessert.
• Low-Sugar Alternative: Select a sugar-free cake mix and substitute pecans with walnuts for reduced sugar content and different nutritional benefits.

Side Dishes That Pair Well with Pecan Dump Cake

• Cozy Thanksgiving Centerpiece: Serve this warm pecan dump cake as the star dessert at your holiday gathering, garnished with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a light dusting of cinnamon.
• Southern Comfort Brunch: Transform this cake into a delightful morning treat by pairing it with freshly brewed coffee and a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent breakfast experience.
• Potluck Party Sensation: Bring this easy-to-transport dessert to community gatherings, cutting it into neat squares and presenting on a rustic wooden board for a crowd-pleasing potluck contribution.
• Elegant Dessert Plating: Elevate the presentation by drizzling caramel sauce over individual servings and adding a small mint leaf for a touch of gourmet sophistication.

Quick Pecan Dump Cake Recipe

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4.8 from 29 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Pecan dump cake offers a simple Southern dessert that combines crunchy pecans with sweet cake mix. Layers of buttery goodness come together effortlessly, promising a delightful treat you’ll savor to the last crumb.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 1 can (15 ounces / 425 grams) pumpkin puree
• 1 cup (240 milliliters / 240 grams) pecans, chopped
• 1 box yellow cake mix

Baking Liquids:

• 1 cup (227 grams / 2 sticks) butter, melted
• 1 can (12 ounces / 354 milliliters) evaporated milk

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven at 350F (175C) and position the rack in the center.
2. Thoroughly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
3. Create an initial layer of pumpkin puree across the entire bottom of the baking dish, ensuring an even spread.
4. Generously distribute the dry cake mix over the pumpkin layer, covering it completely.
5. Slowly drizzle the evaporated milk across the cake mix, allowing it to seep into the dry ingredients.
6. Scatter the chopped pecans uniformly over the milk-soaked cake mix, creating a crunchy topping.
7. Stream the melted butter across the entire surface, ensuring complete coverage of the pecans and cake mix.
8. Transfer the prepared dish to the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, watching for a golden-brown color and bubbling edges.
9. Remove from the oven and allow the cake to rest for 10-15 minutes, letting the layers settle and flavors meld.
10. Serve warm, optionally accompanied by vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for added indulgence.

Notes

• Swap pumpkin puree with canned apple pie filling for a fruity twist that adds extra sweetness and seasonal charm.
• Toast pecans beforehand to enhance their nutty flavor and create a more complex, rich taste profile.
• Use gluten-free cake mix to make this dessert suitable for those with gluten sensitivities, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delightful treat.
• Drizzle caramel sauce or add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for an indulgent, restaurant-style presentation that elevates the simple dump cake.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 30 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 38 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 40 mg