Are you craving a delicious pecan pie but short on time and baking skills? Look no further! This easy pecan pie dump cake recipe is the perfect solution. It requires minimal effort, uses readily available ingredients, and delivers all the rich, nutty goodness of a traditional pecan pie without the fuss. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this simple yet elegant dessert!
What is a Dump Cake?
A dump cake is a wonderfully easy dessert that lives up to its name. You literally "dump" the ingredients into a baking dish, bake it, and enjoy! It's perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a delicious treat without spending hours in the kitchen. This pecan pie variation takes the simplicity of a dump cake and elevates it to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Easy Pecan Pie Dump Cake Ingredients:
- 1 (15 ounce) box yellow cake mix
- 1 (15 ounce) can pecan pie filling
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup chopped pecans (optional, for extra pecan flavor)
Easy Pecan Pie Dump Cake Instructions:
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Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
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Layer the Cake Mix: Evenly spread the dry yellow cake mix in the prepared baking dish.
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Pour in the Pecan Pie Filling: Carefully pour the entire can of pecan pie filling over the cake mix. Try to spread it evenly.
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Drizzle with Melted Butter: Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the pecan pie filling.
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Add Chopped Pecans (Optional): If you're using extra chopped pecans, sprinkle them evenly over the top.
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Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-baking.
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Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature. A scoop of vanilla ice cream is the perfect complement!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a different type of cake mix?
While yellow cake mix is traditional and provides a lovely contrast with the pecan pie filling, you can experiment with other flavors like spice cake or even chocolate cake for a unique twist. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change accordingly.
How can I make this dump cake ahead of time?
You can assemble the dump cake ahead of time and store it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Just add about 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
What kind of pecans should I use?
You can use either regular or toasted pecans. Toasting the pecans beforehand will enhance their flavor and give them a nice crunch.
Can I add other ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative. Consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake mix, or a dollop of whipped cream on top before serving. A drizzle of caramel sauce would also be a delicious addition.
What if my cake is over-baked?
If your cake is over-baked and looks too dark or dry, don't worry! It will still likely be delicious. Just let it cool completely and the texture might soften slightly.
Tips for Success:
- Use a good quality pecan pie filling for the best flavor.
- Don't over-bake the cake; it's better to slightly under-bake than over-bake.
- Let the cake cool slightly before serving to allow the filling to set.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra decadent treat.
This easy pecan pie dump cake recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its simplicity, combined with the rich and delicious flavor of pecan pie, makes it the perfect dessert for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to enjoy this effortless yet impressive treat!
