Pecan pie is a classic, but the traditional recipe can be time-consuming. This easy pecan pie dump cake offers all the deliciousness of a pecan pie with significantly less effort. It's the perfect dessert for busy weeknights or when you're craving something sweet without the fuss. This recipe uses readily available ingredients and minimal prep time, resulting in a decadent treat that will impress your family and friends.
What Makes This Pecan Pie Dump Cake So Easy?
This recipe earns its "dump cake" moniker because most of the ingredients are simply dumped into a baking dish. No complicated mixing or precise measurements are required, making it ideal for beginner bakers or anyone short on time. The result is a moist, flavorful cake with a crunchy pecan topping that tastes remarkably similar to a traditional pecan pie, but with a fraction of the effort.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) yellow cake mix
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (optional, for extra richness)
Easy Pecan Pie Dump Cake Instructions:
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Layer the Cake Mix: Pour the entire box of yellow cake mix evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Add the Pecans: Sprinkle the chopped pecans over the cake mix.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and brown sugar (if using) until well combined.
- Pour Over Pecans: Carefully pour the wet ingredients evenly over the pecan layer. Don't worry about mixing!
- Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool & Serve: Let the cake cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
This section addresses common questions about this easy pecan pie dump cake recipe, ensuring you have all the information you need for baking success.
Can I use different types of nuts?
Yes, you can experiment with other nuts like walnuts, pecans, or a combination of both. The quantity should remain the same.
What if I don't have brown sugar?
The brown sugar is optional, adding extra richness and depth of flavor. If you don't have any, you can omit it without significantly affecting the overall taste.
How can I make this cake ahead of time?
You can assemble the cake ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Just add about 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
Can I use a different type of cake mix?
While yellow cake mix works best for this recipe, you could experiment with other flavors like spice cake or even devil's food cake for a different flavor profile. Be aware that the taste will change accordingly.
How do I store leftover cake?
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Tips for the Best Easy Pecan Pie Dump Cake:
- Don't overmix: The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity. Avoid overmixing the wet ingredients.
- Use fresh pecans: Freshly chopped pecans will have the best flavor and texture.
- Let it cool: Allow the cake to cool slightly before cutting and serving to prevent a messy experience.
This easy pecan pie dump cake is a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. Give it a try and enjoy this simple yet delicious dessert!
