Pecan Dump Cake

Pecan Dump Cake is a rich, buttery dessert made by layering simple ingredients and letting the oven do all the work. With no mixing bowls required, this cake gets its name from the “dump and bake” method—just dump everything into a dish, bake, and enjoy. The result is a gooey, golden cake with crisp pecan topping, perfect for casual gatherings, potlucks, or a quick sweet fix.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly easy to make with minimal prep
• Uses pantry staples and one baking dish
• Buttery, crunchy topping with gooey cake base
• Great for beginners or kids to help with
• Customizable with different cake mixes or fillings
• Ideal for last-minute desserts
• Crowd-pleaser at holidays and parties
• No need for mixers or fancy tools
• Serve warm, cold, or with ice cream
• Ready to bake in under 10 minutes

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Canned crushed pineapple (undrained)
• Canned cherry pie filling
• Yellow cake mix
• Unsalted butter (sliced)
• Chopped pecans
• Cinnamon (optional)

directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Dump the crushed pineapple (with juice) evenly into the bottom of the dish.
3. Spread the cherry pie filling on top of the pineapple.
4. Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the fruit layers.
5. Distribute the butter slices evenly over the cake mix layer.
6. Sprinkle chopped pecans on top. Add a light sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
7. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling around the edges.
8. Let cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with whipped cream or ice cream if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 10–12 servings. Prep time is just 10 minutes, and bake time is 45–50 minutes, bringing the total time to about 1 hour.

Variations

• Use apple or blueberry pie filling instead of cherry
• Swap yellow cake mix with spice or white cake mix
• Add shredded coconut with the pecans for extra texture
• Use walnuts or almonds in place of pecans
• Add a dash of nutmeg or allspice for holiday flavor
• Try peach pie filling and add sliced fresh peaches
• Make it dairy-free with plant-based butter
• Add chocolate chips on top for a richer twist
• Stir in a splash of vanilla or almond extract into the fruit layer
• Make mini versions in ramekins for individual servings

storage/reheating

Store leftover pecan dump cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave for 30–45 seconds or place in a 300°F oven for about 10–15 minutes. You can also freeze the cake in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

What is a dump cake?

A dump cake is a dessert where ingredients are layered or “dumped” into a baking dish without mixing and then baked until bubbly and golden.

Do I need to stir the layers together?

No stirring is needed. Keeping the layers intact helps create the gooey texture and crisp topping.

Can I use different fruit fillings?

Yes, any canned pie filling works well—try apple, blueberry, or peach.

What type of cake mix is best?

Yellow cake mix is traditional, but white, spice, or even chocolate cake mix can work based on your preference.

Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned?

Yes, but you may need to add a little sugar and moisture (like juice or syrup) to mimic canned filling.

Do I have to use pecans?

No, you can omit them or replace with other nuts like walnuts, almonds, or even granola for crunch.

How do I know when it’s done?

The top should be golden brown and the edges bubbling. A toothpick inserted may come out with soft crumbs.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, it can be baked ahead and stored in the fridge. Reheat before serving for best texture.

Is this dessert best served warm or cold?

It’s great both ways. Warm is more gooey and comforting; chilled has a firmer, chewy texture.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free cake mix and ensure the other ingredients (like pie filling) are also gluten-free.

Conclusion

Pecan Dump Cake is the ultimate no-fuss dessert that doesn’t sacrifice flavor for convenience. With its sweet, fruity base, buttery cake topping, and nutty crunch, it’s a guaranteed hit whether served at a holiday feast or as a simple weeknight treat. Keep this recipe on hand for when you need a quick, comforting dessert that always delivers.

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