Amazing Pecan Pie Dump Cake: 1 Southern Gem

October 6, 2025
Written By Olivia Rosewood

Oh, you are going to LOVE this recipe! Seriously, if you’re looking for a little slice of Southern comfort that’s ridiculously easy to whip up, then you’ve landed in the right spot. This pecan pie dump cake is just what the doctor ordered for those busy holiday evenings or anytime you need a sweet treat without a fuss. It’s like magic in a pan, bringing together that buttery cake mix goodness with all the cozy flavors we adore, just like Olivia Rosewood talks about on our About page, making simple meals a joy. It’s the perfect way to share some love on any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Pecan Pie Dump Cake

Seriously, who has time for complicated desserts during the holidays? This pecan pie dump cake is an absolute lifesaver!

  • It’s SO Easy: Just layer everything in the pan and bake. No fancy techniques needed!
  • Super Fast Prep: You can have this dessert ready for the oven in about 15 minutes. Plenty of time to tackle other things.
  • Cozy Southern Flavor: It’s got that gooey, nutty, buttery goodness that just screams home. It’s the ultimate southern dump cake!
  • Perfect for Holidays: This makes a fantastic addition to your easy holiday desserts spread, especially for Thanksgiving!
  • Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone adores this warm, comforting treat. You’ll be asked for the recipe, guaranteed!

Ingredients for Your Southern Dump Cake

Gather these simple goodies for your amazing pecan pie dump cake. We’re keeping it super straightforward!

  • 1 box (about 18.25 oz) yellow cake mix
  • 1 cup chopped pecans (fresh ones are best!)
  • 1 cup (that’s 2 sticks!) unsalted butter, all melted
  • 1 jar (12 oz) caramel ice cream topping (don’t skimp here!)
  • 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling (or your favorite fruit!)

How to Make the Easiest Pecan Pie Dump Cake

Okay, get ready, because this is where the magic *really* happens, and it couldn’t be simpler. You’re literally just layering ingredients right into the pan! We’re talking about the easiest pecan pie dump cake you’ll ever make. No muss, no fuss!

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Oven

First things first, let’s get that oven preheating to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, grab your 9×13 inch baking dish and give it a good grease. This little step saves your cake from sticking later on, trust me!

Step 2: Layer the Dry Ingredients and Pecans

Now, take that dry yellow cake mix and sprinkle it evenly all over the bottom of your greased dish. Try to get it as even as possible! Then, scatter those lovely chopped pecans right on top of the cake mix. These nuts are going to be AMAZING!

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients

Time for the gooey goodness! Slowly and evenly pour that melted butter all over the cake mix and pecans. Then, grab your caramel ice cream topping and drizzle it generously all over everything. You want that sweet caramel goodness to seep down.

Step 4: Top with Pie Filling and Bake

Carefully spoon your cherry pie filling (or whatever fruit filling you’re using!) over the top layer. Try to spread it out as evenly as you can. Now, slide that beauty into the preheated oven and let it bake for about 40-50 minutes. You’re looking for that golden brown, bubbly deliciousness. That’s how you know your pecan pie dump cake is ready!

Step 5: Cool Slightly Before Serving

Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool down just a little bit. A few minutes is perfect. This helps everything set up nicely before you dive in!

Tips for a Perfect Southern Pecan Pie Dump Cake

Making this pecan pie dump cake is already super easy, but a few little tricks can make it absolutely perfect every single time! You know, the kind that makes people ask, “What’s your secret?” when they taste it.

Ingredient Quality Matters

Trust me on this, using good quality ingredients makes a difference! Fresher pecans really give you that amazing nutty crunch. And a good yellow cake mix? Yes, please! It forms the perfect base for our southern dump cake.

Even Layering for Even Baking

This is key for any dump cake, really! Make sure you spread that dry cake mix and the pecans out as evenly as possible. Same goes for the melted butter and caramel topping. This helps everything bake up beautifully without any dry spots or burnt bits.

Don’t Overbake

It can be tempting to let it bake a little longer to make sure it’s super golden, but resist! You want the edges to be bubbly and golden brown, but the center should still be wonderfully gooey. Overbaking can make your yummy pecan pie dump cake a little dry. A quick peek at the bubbling edges is usually all you need!

Serving and Storage for Your Thanksgiving Dessert

This warm, gooey pecan pie dump cake is just divine served warm! It’s pure comfort in a bowl. I absolutely love it with a big scoop of vanilla ice cream melting into the caramel and nuts, or a dollop of fluffy whipped cream. It’s really one of the best thanksgiving desserts you could ask for.

Got leftovers? Lucky you! You can store this cake at room temperature for a day or two, covered tightly. If it’s pretty warm where you are, popping it in the fridge might be best. To reheat, just pop a slice in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds. It’s almost as good the second time around!

Frequently Asked Questions About Pecan Pie Dump Cake

Got questions about this easy-peasy dessert? I’ve got answers! Making a pecan pie dump cake is pretty straightforward, but here are some common things people ask.

Can I use a different cake mix for this dump cake?

Absolutely! While yellow cake mix is my go-to for that classic flavor, you could totally try a creamy vanilla or even a warm spice cake mix. Just know it’ll give your southern dump cake a slightly different flavor vibe. Don’t be afraid to experiment!

What other nuts can I use in this recipe?

If pecans aren’t your jam, or you just ran out, walnuts or even slivered almonds would be super yummy in this pecan pie dump cake. Just swap ’em out in equal measure!

How should I store leftover pecan pie dump cake?

Leftovers? Lucky you! Just cover your pecan pie dump cake tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It’ll stay delicious at room temperature for about 2 days, or you can pop it in the fridge to last a bit longer.

Is this considered a traditional Southern dessert?

Oh yes! While dump cakes are popular everywhere now, this style of easy, comforting, and slightly gooey dessert definitely has roots in Southern home cooking traditions. It’s like grandma’s kitchen in a pan!

Estimated Nutritional Information

Just a little heads-up, the nutritional info for this yummy pecan pie dump cake is estimated. Calories, fat, carbs, and sugar can vary based on the brands you use, but this gives you a good idea! It’s roughly 450 calories, 25g of fat, 50g of carbs, and about 55g of sugar per serving.

Share Your Pecan Pie Dump Cake Creations!

I just can’t wait to hear what you think of this recipe! Drop a comment below and tell me how your pecan pie dump cake turned out. Did you try any fun variations? I love seeing your creations, so feel free to share your baking adventures!

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Pecan Pie Dump Cake

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A simple Southern pecan pie dump cake made with buttery cake mix, perfect for holiday dessert tables.

  • Author: oliviarosewood
  • Prep Time: 15 min
  • Cook Time: 45 min
  • Total Time: 60 min
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 box (18.25 oz) yellow cake mix
  • 1 cup chopped pecans
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 jar (12 oz) caramel ice cream topping
  • 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  3. Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
  4. Scatter the chopped pecans over the dry cake mix.
  5. Pour the melted butter evenly over the cake mix and pecans.
  6. Drizzle the caramel ice cream topping over the butter and pecan layer.
  7. Spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over the top.
  8. Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
  9. Let the cake cool slightly before serving.

Notes

  • Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
  • This cake is a wonderful Thanksgiving or Christmas dessert.
  • You can substitute other fruit pie fillings like apple or peach if desired.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 55g
  • Sodium: 200mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg

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