If you’re seeking an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert that comes together with almost no effort, Pecan Dump Cake is the ultimate treat to have up your sleeve. Imagine lush layers of apple pie filling and sweet pineapple, all topped off with a glorious crown of buttery pecan-crusted cake—every spoonful tastes like pure comfort. With this simple baking method, even the most hesitant bakers will marvel at how quickly a warm, bubbling masterpiece appears out of their oven. Whether you serve it at a potluck, family gathering, or just because, Pecan Dump Cake will win you friends and fans in a single bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about Pecan Dump Cake is its simple ingredient list. Each component has a purpose, whether it’s adding sweetness, texture, nutty crunch, or buttery goodness, making the final dessert truly unforgettable.
- Yellow cake mix: The dry cake mix forms the topping, creating a golden, crisp crust when baked.
- Apple pie filling: This is the juicy, fruity base that brings sweetness and a hint of tartness to the party.
- Crushed pineapple (undrained): Pineapple adds moisture, brightness, and a lovely tropical twist to the filling.
- Chopped pecans: These deliver crunch and rich, toasty flavor that pairs perfectly with fruit and cake.
- Unsalted butter: Sliced and scattered over the top, butter helps brown the cake mix and infuses it with richness.
- Ground cinnamon (optional): A dusting of cinnamon brings warmth and extra depth to the fruity layers.
How to Make Pecan Dump Cake
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and give your 9×13-inch baking dish a light greasing—just enough to keep things from sticking later. Starting with a hot oven guarantees that signature golden crust, so don’t skip the preheat!
Step 2: Create the Fruit Base
Spread the apple pie filling evenly across the bottom of your prepared dish. Right after that, pour in the crushed pineapple (juice and all) and gently spread it so it mingles with the apples. If you love a hint of spice, now’s the time to sprinkle a touch of ground cinnamon right over the fruit.
Step 3: Add the Cake Mix Layer
Grab your yellow cake mix and sprinkle it gently but evenly over the fruit layer. There’s no need to mix or stir—just let it form a blanket on top. This unique dump-and-layer technique gives Pecan Dump Cake its signature cobbler-meets-cake magic.
Step 4: Pile on the Pecans
Top everything with the chopped pecans, scattering them over the cake mix as generously or sparingly as you like. This ensures every bite of Pecan Dump Cake has a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
Step 5: Finish with Butter
Arrange the thin slices of butter all over the surface of the cake mix and pecans. As the cake bakes, the butter melts through the mix, creating a decadent, toasty crust that’s beyond tempting.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Slide the pan into the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the fruity filling is bubbling up at the edges. Let it cool for 10–15 minutes before digging in—the aroma alone is enough to gather a crowd!
How to Serve Pecan Dump Cake
Garnishes
A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream makes Pecan Dump Cake truly irresistible. For a fancier touch, sprinkle a few extra toasted pecans on top, or drizzle with caramel sauce for extra sweetness.
Side Dishes
This dessert is quite the showstopper on its own, but pairing it with fresh berries or a mug of hot coffee can round out the experience. For those who like contrasts, try serving it with a tart fruit compote or lemon sorbet on the side.
Creative Ways to Present
Individual ramekins make Pecan Dump Cake feel extra special at dinner parties, while serving it family-style in a big, deep baking dish plays up its rustic charm. You can also cut squares and plate each with a drizzle of sauce and a pecan half for a more sophisticated presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover the baking dish tightly with foil or transfer leftover Pecan Dump Cake to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to four days, staying moist and flavorful for midnight snacks or next-day treats.
Freezing
To freeze Pecan Dump Cake, wrap individual portions or the whole dish in a double layer of foil and place in the freezer for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating so the texture stays spot-on.
Reheating
For best results, reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven until warmed through; this revives the crispy top and gooey filling. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works, too, but the oven gives you that perfect just-baked vibe.
FAQs
Can I use a different cake mix flavor for Pecan Dump Cake?
Absolutely! White or spice cake mix both work beautifully and add unique twists. Even chocolate cake mix can turn Pecan Dump Cake into a decadent, cocoa-rich variation.
What other nuts can I substitute for pecans?
Walnuts or slivered almonds are great alternatives and bring their own distinct flavors and crunch. If nut allergies are a concern, simply leave them out—the cake will still be deliciously satisfying.
Can I make Pecan Dump Cake without pineapple?
If pineapple isn’t your thing, try substituting with extra apple pie filling or another fruit, like canned peaches. Just be sure to include some juice so the cake stays moist and luscious.
Why is it called a “dump cake”?
The name comes from the prep style: you quite literally dump all the ingredients into the pan in layers instead of mixing. No need for bowls or electric mixers—just layer, bake, and enjoy!
Can I prepare Pecan Dump Cake in advance for a party?
Yes! Assemble the cake, cover tightly, and refrigerate unbaked for up to a day. When ready to serve, let it sit on the counter while the oven preheats, then bake as directed for a warm, just-made dessert.
Final Thoughts
There’s something extra satisfying about sharing an easy, foolproof dessert that over-delivers on comfort and flavor, and that’s exactly what you’ll get with Pecan Dump Cake. Don’t be surprised if your friends and family start asking for this recipe by name—once you’ve tried it, it’s sure to become a staple in your dessert repertoire!
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Pecan Dump Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Pecan Dump Cake is a simple and delicious dessert that combines the flavors of apple, pineapple, and pecans with a buttery cake topping. It’s an easy-to-make treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Yellow Cake Mix:
- 1 box yellow cake mix
Apple Pie Filling:
- 1 can (21 oz) apple pie filling
Crushed Pineapple:
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed pineapple (undrained)
Pecans:
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Unsalted Butter:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter (sliced into thin pats)
Ground Cinnamon (optional):
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Layer the fruits: Spread apple pie filling in the dish, pour crushed pineapple over it, and sprinkle with cinnamon.
- Add the toppings: Sprinkle dry cake mix over the fruit, top with pecans, and place butter slices on top.
- Bake: Bake for 45-50 minutes until golden and bubbly. Let cool before serving.
Notes
- Best served warm with vanilla ice cream.
- Try cherry or peach pie filling for flavor variation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 270mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
