Pecan Pie Dump Cake

Pecan Pie Dump Cake: A Simple Twist on a Southern Classic

Pecan Pie Dump Cake is a decadent dessert that marries the rich, buttery flavor of traditional pecan pie with the ease and fluffiness of a dump cake. This sweet treat requires minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor—perfect for holidays, potlucks, or whenever you’re craving something truly indulgent. The beauty of a dump cake is that you don’t need to be an expert baker; with just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a crowd-pleasing dessert in under an hour.

Why You’ll Love It

Effortless prep – No mixing bowls required.
Crunchy, gooey texture – The pecans create a crisp topping while the filling stays soft and sweet.
Crowd favorite – Combines two southern favorites: pecan pie and cake.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need:

1 can (15 oz) pecan pie filling
1 box yellow cake mix
1 cup chopped pecans
¾ cup (1½ sticks) unsalted butter, melted
½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Nonstick cooking spray or butter for greasing

Optional additions: a sprinkle of brown sugar on top, or a drizzle of caramel sauce after baking for extra richness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Step 2: Layer the Pecan Pie Filling

Open your can of pecan pie filling and spread it evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. If you’d like to deepen the flavor, stir in the vanilla extract and cinnamon before spreading it out.

Step 3: Sprinkle the Cake Mix

Evenly pour the dry cake mix over the pecan pie filling. Do not mix or stir. The cake mix will absorb moisture and bake into a fluffy, golden topping.