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This easy pecan pie dump cake turns the classic Southern treat into an unbeatable sweet that’s gone in no time. You get that rich, sticky, nutty filling mixed with the chill vibe of a toss-it-together cake—all in every delicious bite.
One crazy Thanksgiving, I stumbled on this when I was short on time and my pie dough just would not cooperate. My whole crew was obsessed right away, and that’s when I realized the easiest dishes are basically unbeatable. Now everyone asks me for this every holiday!
Must-Try Ingredients
- Butter pecan cake mix: Pumps up the nut flavor, and any store brand does the trick
- Brown sugar: Dark brown is deep and molasses-y, but regular still rocks
- Eggs: If they’re at room temp, they’ll mix in smoother
- Butter: Gotta use real stuff to get that awesome golden top
- Caramel topping: Using plain plus salted caramel makes the flavor sing—pick a thick one for best gooey texture
- Pecan halves: Go for fresh, chunky, and light-brown nuts (skip any that look shriveled)
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Simple Step-by-Step
- Bake It:
- Pop in the oven and bake about 25 to 30 minutes 'til the top’s deeply golden and the middle jiggles just a little
- Add the Crunch:
- Gently stir in those pecans, making sure they’re all glossy and mixed in so every bite has some
- Top it Off:
- Stir cake mix with melted butter 'til it’s crumbly, then scatter over the top—don’t flatten it out
- Pour it On:
- Drizzle in the caramels and melted butter, stir until everything’s mixed and shiny (it might look runny, but trust, it’ll set)
- Mix Up the Base:
- Beat those eggs by themselves, then blend with sugar so you don’t get any weird clumps
- Get Ready:
- Grease your baking pan well first, then turn the oven up to 350°F to start things off right
This dessert totally changes in the oven. The boxed cake turns into a buttery crust and under that, you've got a thick, sticky pecan-caramel layer even dreamier than pecan pie.
I’ve brought this to more potlucks and family parties than I can count. Every time—the plates are licked clean. Crunchy nuts, gooey filling, and that crispy top? Seriously addictive combo.
This one’s a total lifesaver for busy days or less-confident bakers. It’s so forgiving—even if you’re itching to check on three other things.
We like digging in when it’s just warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Warm cake plus melty ice cream is just the best. On special days, we pour a little extra caramel right on top.
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After lots of tweaks and trial runs, this dump cake is here to stay in my kitchen. Proof that simple really can wow a whole crowd. It’s the ultimate comfort treat—whether for a big holiday bash or a quiet night in.