If you’re craving a dessert that feels like a warm, cozy hug in every bite, you’ve got to try this Caramel Pecan Dump Cake Recipe. It’s the perfect combination of buttery cake, crunchy pecans, and luscious caramel all baked together in one simple dish. Whether you’re new to baking or just want a no-fuss treat, this dessert comes together quickly and fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas. Every spoonful offers a delightful mix of textures and rich flavors, making it an instant crowd-pleaser for family dinners or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Caramel Pecan Dump Cake Recipe shines because of its straightforward yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a vital role — from the fluffy yellow cake mix that gives it structure to the pecans adding crunch and the caramel sauce lending just the right touch of sweetness.
- Yellow cake mix: The base that bakes up light and airy, creating the perfect foundation for this dessert.
- Chopped pecans: Adds a satisfying nutty crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft cake.
- Caramel sauce: Brings a rich, buttery sweetness that seeps through every bite, elevating the flavor.
- Melted butter: Infuses moisture and a golden crispness to the top layer for a dreamy texture.
- Milk: Helps to evenly distribute the butter and create a tender crumb throughout the cake.
How to Make Caramel Pecan Dump Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This simple prep step ensures your cake won’t stick and will bake evenly, making cleanup a breeze too.
Step 2: Layer the Cake Mix
Pour the entire box of yellow cake mix evenly over the greased dish. Resist the urge to stir — this recipe is all about layering the ingredients instead of mixing them together.
Step 3: Sprinkle on Pecans
Next, spread the chopped pecans evenly over the dry cake mix. These nuts provide delightful texture and a little toasted flavor when baked.
Step 4: Drizzle with Caramel Sauce
Pour the caramel sauce evenly over the pecans, letting it drip through the layers. This step is where the cake begins to get its signature rich sweetness, so don’t hold back!
Step 5: Add Butter and Milk
Mix the melted butter with the milk, then gently pour this mixture across the entire dish to moisten the cake mix. This combination keeps everything tender and helps create that gorgeous golden brown crust on top.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is bubbly and golden brown, with caramel bubbling at the edges — pure magic in the making.
Step 7: Serve While Warm
Serve your Caramel Pecan Dump Cake warm for the best experience. It’s fantastic on its own or topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
How to Serve Caramel Pecan Dump Cake Recipe
Garnishes
While this cake stands beautifully on its own, a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a handful of extra toasted pecans on top adds a lovely finishing touch. A drizzle of additional caramel sauce can make it feel truly decadent, perfect for special occasions.
Side Dishes
Pair this dessert with crisp apple slices or fresh berries to balance the sweetness with a fresh burst of flavor. A hot cup of coffee or a creamy latte also complements the nutty caramel notes wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the dump cake in individual ramekins for a charming single-serving dessert. Layering it with whipped cream and caramel in clear glasses creates an elegant parfait that showcases its irresistible layers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Caramel Pecan Dump Cake can be stored covered at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for up to five days. Be sure to keep it tightly wrapped to maintain moisture and prevent it from drying out.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this dessert later, freezing is a great option. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before placing it in the freezer. It will keep well for up to three months.
Reheating
Reheat the cake slices gently in the microwave or oven. Warming it up brings back the melty caramel goodness and softens the cake for a freshly baked feel. A quick 20 seconds in the microwave or 10 minutes at 350°F in the oven works wonders.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of nuts?
Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds make excellent substitutes if you prefer a slightly different crunch or flavor profile with your Caramel Pecan Dump Cake Recipe.
Is this dessert gluten-free?
This recipe uses a standard yellow cake mix which contains gluten, but you can substitute with a gluten-free cake mix if you want a gluten-free version.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the cake in the baking dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from chilled.
What’s the best way to get crunchy pecans on top?
For extra crunchy pecans, consider toasting them lightly in a dry skillet before sprinkling them over the cake mix. This adds depth of flavor and a satisfying crispness.
Can I use homemade caramel sauce?
Definitely! Using homemade caramel sauce will add a personal touch and can make your Caramel Pecan Dump Cake Recipe even more special and rich.
Final Thoughts
This Caramel Pecan Dump Cake Recipe has quickly become one of my go-to desserts because it’s incredibly easy yet so deliciously satisfying. It’s the kind of cake that feels like a cozy celebration in every bite, perfect for weeknight treats or weekend gatherings. Give it a try—you might just find a new favorite that everyone will ask for again and again!
Print
Caramel Pecan Dump Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Caramel Pecan Dump Cake is a simple and decadent dessert featuring a buttery, golden crust topped with crunchy pecans and rich caramel sauce. Perfect for a quick and fuss-free sweet treat that pairs beautifully with ice cream or whipped cream.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix
Nuts
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Sauces & Liquids
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup milk
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Add Cake Mix: Evenly pour the yellow cake mix into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out to cover the bottom.
- Sprinkle Pecans: Generously sprinkle the chopped pecans over the dry cake mix layer for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
- Drizzle Caramel: Drizzle the caramel sauce evenly over the pecans and cake mix to add a rich, gooey sweetness throughout the cake.
- Add Butter and Milk: Pour the melted butter and milk evenly over the entire mixture to moisten the cake mix and help create a golden crust as it bakes.
- Bake Cake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly, indicating the cake is cooked through with a caramelized topping.
- Serve: Remove from oven and serve warm, optionally topped with ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Notes
- Use a good-quality caramel sauce or homemade caramel for best flavor.
- Do not stir the ingredients together; the cake mix should stay dry on top before baking to achieve a layered texture.
- Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving to let the caramel set.
- This dessert pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or freshly whipped cream.
- Storage: Cover and refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days; reheat before serving.
