Pecan Dump Cake with Caramel Topping Recipe

If you’re craving a dessert that’s both easy to make and absolutely mouthwatering, then you’re in luck! This Pecan Dump Cake with Caramel Topping Recipe is one of those magical treats that combines the gooey richness of pecan pie with the carefree simplicity of a dump cake. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll wonder why it isn’t your go-to recipe for every special occasion or a sweet weekend indulgence.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

I’ve found that each ingredient brings something special to the party here—brown sugar adds that deep molasses warmth, pecans deliver that signature crunch, and the white cake mix helps everything bake up fluffy yet gooey. Make sure to use good-quality pecans and real vanilla for the best flavor pop!

• Dark brown sugar: Adds rich, caramel-like sweetness and moisture—don’t skip the dark variety for depth of flavor.
• Dark corn syrup: Helps keep the filling sticky and smooth, giving that classic pecan pie texture.
• Salted butter: Provides richness and balances sweetness; melted and cooled so it mixes evenly.
• Large eggs: Room temperature eggs mix in better and help bind the filling perfectly.
• Pure vanilla extract: Enhances all the sweet elements—never use imitation if you can help it.
• Pecan halves: Use fresh or toasted pecans for crunch and flavor in two layers—one mixed in, one on top.
• White cake mix: The secret shortcut that makes the crust and topping phenomenal—no real mixing, just sprinkled.
• Hot water: Poured over the cake mix helps it dissolve and bake into that tender, caramelized crust.
• Caramel topping (optional): I love drizzling this on top right before serving to take it over the moon—totally optional but so worth it!

Variations

I love how flexible this Pecan Dump Cake with Caramel Topping Recipe is — I often tweak it based on what’s in my pantry or the occasion. It’s your playground, so don’t hesitate to make it yours!

• Swap the nuts: Sometimes, I use walnuts or a nut mix for a different crunch and flavor profile—it’s equally delicious.
• Gluten-free version: Try a gluten-free white cake mix to make this allergy-friendly without sacrificing that beautiful texture.
• Healthier twist: Use a light butter substitute and reduce corn syrup slightly; it won’t be quite as gooey but still hits the spot.
• Caramel reinforcement: I sometimes fold chopped caramel bits into the filling for bursts of sweetness throughout.

How to Make Pecan Dump Cake with Caramel Topping Recipe

Step 1: Let’s Get Your Oven Warmed Up

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray so nothing sticks, and cleanup is a breeze. This step is important to make sure everything bakes evenly and the edges crisp up beautifully.

Step 2: Mix the Gooey Pecan Filling

In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of packed dark brown sugar, the dark corn syrup, ½ cup of melted butter (cooled so it doesn’t scramble the eggs), eggs, and vanilla extract. The mix should be smooth and glossy. Then, fold in 3 cups of pecan halves for that signature crunch and nutty flavor.

Step 3: Layer It in the Pan

Spread that pecan filling evenly in your prepared baking dish. Here’s the fun part: sprinkle the entire dry white cake mix evenly on top — but don’t stir it in! This dry layer is the magic crust that will soak up all the sweet goodness.

Step 4: Butter, Sugar & Water – The Perfect Topper

Drizzle the remaining ¾ cup of melted butter over the cake mix, then sprinkle the leftover ¾ cup of dark brown sugar evenly on top. This layering trick adds sweetness and helps caramelize the crust. Next, carefully pour 1 cup of hot water over the entire dish—tilt the pan gently to spread it around, but don’t stir. It might seem strange, but trust me, this is what helps dissolve the cake mix and create an incredible moist topping.

Step 5: Final Touch & Bake

Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of pecan halves on top as a final crunchy layer. Then pop your pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’re looking for a golden crust and some jiggle in the center — that’s your cue it’s perfectly baked and ready to wow.

Step 6: Cool & Serve with Caramel Bliss

Let the cake cool completely before serving—that cooling step helps it set up and makes slicing easier. If you want to go all out, drizzle caramel topping on each slice for added sweetness and gooey goodness. My family goes crazy for this final touch!

How to Serve Pecan Dump Cake with Caramel Topping Recipe

Garnishes

I usually keep it simple with a light drizzle of warm caramel sauce and a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold creaminess contrasts perfectly with the warm, nutty cake. If you’re feeling fancy, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt brings out even more flavor excitement.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk—classic combos that balance the sweetness. For a holiday spread, I like to serve it alongside fresh fruit or lightly spiced chai tea to round out the flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

One of my favorite tricks is serving this cake in individual mini ramekins for a charming, rustic look—plus it’s fantastic for portion control at parties. You can also top individual slices with a sprinkle of toasted coconut or a few chopped pecan halves for a little extra wow.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (which might be tricky!), cover the cake tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. It keeps well for about 4 days. When refrigerated, the cake firms up nicely and the flavors actually deepen overnight.

Freezing

I once froze a leftover portion wrapped securely in plastic wrap and foil. After thawing overnight in the fridge, it reheated beautifully in the oven at 325°F for 15 minutes. The texture stayed moist, and the pecans still had that lovely crunch.

Reheating

Reheating in the oven at a low temperature (around 325°F) is my go-to method to prevent drying out. A quick 10-15 minute warm-up revives the gooey texture without compromising the crust. Microwave reheating can work in a pinch but might make it a bit soggy.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I absolutely love how this Pecan Dump Cake with Caramel Topping Recipe always turns out—a decadent, sweet, nutty marvel that’s surprisingly easy to throw together. When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed by how few steps there were before pulling a crowd-pleasing dessert from the oven. Whether you’re aiming to impress guests or satisfy your sweet tooth after dinner, this cake will have you hooked. So go ahead, grab your ingredients, and treat yourself—your kitchen just became the coziest spot in the house.

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