How I Make Gooey, Nutty Pecan Dump Cake That’s Effortless and Delicious

There are days when I crave a warm, comforting dessert but don’t feel like spending hours in the kitchen. That’s when I turn to this pecan dump cake. It’s ridiculously easy — you literally dump all the ingredients into the pan and bake — but the end result tastes like something far more complicated. You get a buttery, golden top, sweet and gooey filling, and a delightful crunch from the pecans.

I first made this for a Thanksgiving gathering, and it quickly became a family favorite. It’s now one of my go-to recipes for holidays, potlucks, and cozy weekend baking. The combination of warm pecan flavor, sweet cake, and caramelized goodness makes every bite irresistible.

Why I Love This Pecan Dump Cake

• It’s unbelievably easy — no mixer, no fuss.
• Sweet, rich, and gooey with a perfect crunchy top.
• Pecans add a warm, nutty depth that complements the buttery cake.
• Perfect for serving warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Great for holidays, potlucks, and when you need a last-minute dessert.

Ingredients You’ll Need
(Serves 10–12 | Prep Time: 10 minutes | Bake Time: 50 minutes)

• 2 (21-ounce) cans pecan pie filling or canned apple pie filling (both work beautifully)
• 1 box yellow cake mix
• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup chopped pecans

Optional toppings: vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or caramel drizzle.

How I Make Pecan Dump Cake (Step-by-Step)

1. Preheat and Prep
   I preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Add the Pie Filling
   I pour both cans of pecan pie filling (or apple pie filling for a variation) into the bottom of the prepared dish and spread it out evenly.
3. Sprinkle the Cake Mix
   I evenly sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix right on top of the pie filling. No mixing — just spread and smooth it out.
4. Pour the Butter
   I slowly drizzle the melted butter evenly over the cake mix. This is where the magic happens — the butter will help form that golden, crispy top layer.
5. Add Pecans
   I sprinkle the chopped pecans all over the top for that perfect crunchy, nutty finish.
6. Bake
   I pop the dish into the oven and bake for 45–50 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
7. Cool Slightly and Serve
   I let the cake cool for about 10 minutes before serving. It’s best enjoyed warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

My Tips for the Best Pecan Dump Cake

• Spread the butter evenly so all the cake mix gets moistened and bakes up golden.
• Use high-quality pecans for the best flavor and crunch.
• Don’t overbake — you want that gooey center with a crisp top.
• Store leftovers covered in the fridge and warm up in the microwave before serving.

Fun Variations I’ve Tried

• Using apple pie filling instead of pecan for an apple-pecan twist.
• Swapping yellow cake mix for spice cake mix for extra warmth and spice.
• Drizzling caramel sauce on top before baking for added richness.
• Adding a handful of chocolate chips for a sweet, melty surprise.

What I Serve with Pecan Dump Cake

• Vanilla ice cream — the warm cake and cold ice cream are a perfect match.
• Fresh whipped cream for a light and airy topping.
• A drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra decadent finish.
• Hot coffee or a glass of milk for the perfect pairing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble it ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake. It’s also great reheated.

Q: Can I use other pie fillings?
A: Absolutely. Apple, cherry, or peach pie filling all work beautifully.

Q: Can I freeze dump cake?
A: Yes! Let it cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container. Thaw and reheat before serving.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. Warm in the microwave or oven before serving.

Why This Pecan Dump Cake Belongs on Your Dessert Table

This pecan dump cake is comfort food at its best — sweet, rich, gooey, and crunchy with every bite. It’s the kind of dessert you can throw together in minutes, but it tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re making it for a holiday gathering, potluck, or just a cozy night in, it’s guaranteed to please.

I hope you try this recipe and fall in love with how easy and delicious it is. And if you experiment with different fillings or fun toppings, let me know — I’m always excited to hear about new variations on this favorite dessert!