If you crave simple desserts that deliver big flavors with almost no fuss, this Caramel Pecan Dump Cake Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Imagine layers of buttery yellow cake dusted with crunchy pecans, luxuriously sweet caramel sauce, and a tender, golden crust baked to perfection. It’s an irresistibly warm, gooey treat that feels both nostalgic and indulgent, perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. Trust me, once you try this dump cake, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without it!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a handful of simple ingredients is all it takes to pull off this delicious Caramel Pecan Dump Cake Recipe. Each component brings its own magic: the yellow cake mix creates that fluffy, moist base; pecans add a delightful crunch and nutty depth; caramel sauce offers rich sweetness; and the butter and milk work together to melt everything into a golden, buttery masterpiece.
- Yellow cake mix: The convenient foundation that bakes into a soft and fluffy cake layer.
- Chopped pecans (1 cup): Adds a satisfying crunch and a toasty flavor contrast.
- Caramel sauce (1/2 cup): Gives the cake its signature sweet, gooey richness.
- Melted butter (1/2 cup): Creates a golden crust and moist crumb with its buttery goodness.
- Milk (1/4 cup): Helps to blend all ingredients seamlessly and keeps the cake tender.
How to Make Caramel Pecan Dump Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures the cake won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze—such a simple, helpful first step.
Step 2: Layer the Cake Mix
Pour the dry yellow cake mix evenly into your prepared dish. Don’t worry about mixing it with anything first; that’s the beauty of a dump cake. This base layer will turn delightfully fluffy once it bakes.
Step 3: Add the Pecans
Sprinkle 1 cup of chopped pecans evenly over the cake mix. The pecans will toast as the cake bakes, adding texture and a lovely nutty aroma to every bite.
Step 4: Drizzle the Caramel
Pour the caramel sauce evenly on top, making sure every corner gets a touch. This step infuses the cake with that signature sweet, buttery flavor that makes this Caramel Pecan Dump Cake Recipe so special.
Step 5: Pour the Butter and Milk
Combine the melted butter and milk and drizzle this mixture over the entire dish. The butter ensures the cake bakes into a moist, golden delight, while the milk keeps everything tender.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until the top turns a gorgeous golden brown and bubbles up invitingly. Your kitchen will smell amazing, and you’ll know it’s ready when the edges pull away slightly from the pan.
Step 7: Serve Warm
Serve your caramel pecan dump cake warm, and consider topping it with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream to elevate the experience. It’s comfort food with a rich, sweet twist, perfect any time of year.
How to Serve Caramel Pecan Dump Cake Recipe
Garnishes
For garnishes, a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream complements the warm cake beautifully. You can also sprinkle a few extra chopped pecans on top for added crunch and a sprinkling of sea salt to contrast the sweetness.
Side Dishes
This dump cake pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk. If you’re serving dessert after a big meal, light fruit salads or a simple green salad with a citrus vinaigrette help balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering this caramel pecan dessert in clear glasses to make individual parfait-style portions. Add alternating layers of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel between cake scoops for a stunning look that will wow guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Caramel Pecan Dump Cake Recipe covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When ready to enjoy again, let it come to room temperature or warm briefly for that fresh-from-the-oven feel.
Freezing
This dump cake freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. To thaw, leave it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in the oven before serving.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds or place the whole baking dish in a preheated oven at 325°F for about 10 minutes. This brings back the warm, melty texture that makes this recipe irresistible.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of nuts instead of pecans?
Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds make excellent substitutes and add their own unique flavor and crunch to the cake.
Is it necessary to use caramel sauce, or can I make it from scratch?
Store-bought caramel sauce works perfectly, but homemade caramel adds a wonderful personal touch if you have the time and enjoy cooking from scratch.
Can I make this dessert gluten-free?
Yes, simply use a gluten-free yellow cake mix, and ensure your caramel sauce is gluten-free as well to keep the dessert safe for gluten-sensitive eaters.
Is the milk in the recipe optional?
You can omit the milk if needed, but it helps keep the cake moist and tender. If skipping milk, consider substituting with a bit of cream or a non-dairy milk alternative for similar results.
How does this dump cake differ from a traditional cake?
A dump cake is unique because you layer ingredients without mixing, which creates a luscious, layered texture with minimal effort—perfect for quick yet impressive desserts.
Final Thoughts
This Caramel Pecan Dump Cake Recipe is such a gem—easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and versatile enough for any occasion. Once you’ve experienced the warm, nutty, caramel-infused bliss of this cake, you’ll find it hard to resist making it again and again. So why wait? Grab those simple ingredients and treat yourself to a dessert that feels like a warm hug with every bite!
Print
Caramel Pecan Dump Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Caramel Pecan Dump Cake is a delightfully easy dessert perfect for any occasion. Combining the sweet richness of caramel sauce with crunchy pecans and a moist yellow cake base, this dump cake comes together quickly with minimal prep and bakes to golden perfection. Serve warm for a comforting treat that invites scoops of ice cream or dollops of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix
Nuts
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup milk
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Layer Cake Mix: Pour the dry yellow cake mix evenly into the prepared baking dish to create the base layer of the dessert.
- Add Pecans: Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly over the top of the cake mix, distributing the nuts for a crunchy texture in every bite.
- Drizzle Caramel: Evenly drizzle the caramel sauce over the pecans, adding rich sweetness to the layers.
- Add Butter and Milk: Pour the melted butter and milk evenly over the entire mixture, which helps to moisten the cake during baking and combine all flavors.
- Bake the Cake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the mixture is bubbly, indicating it’s fully cooked.
- Serve Warm: Remove from the oven and serve warm. For an extra special touch, add a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream on top if desired.
Notes
- Be sure to evenly distribute all ingredients for consistent flavor and texture.
- Using a glass or metal baking dish will work; just ensure it’s greased properly.
- The caramel sauce can be store-bought or homemade.
- For added decadence, add cinnamon or a pinch of salt to balance sweetness.
- Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated before serving.
