If you’re searching for a dessert that’s both effortless and indulgent, look no further than Pioneer Woman’s Pecan Pie Dump Cake. This irresistible treat combines the gooey sweetness of classic pecan pie with the buttery, crumbly texture of a dump cake — all with minimal prep and no complicated steps.
Perfect for holidays, family dinners, or last-minute gatherings, this dessert looks and tastes like you spent hours baking, even though it comes together in minutes.
What Makes Pioneer Woman’s Pecan Pie Dump Cake So Special?
This easy pecan pie dump cake brings together everything you love about a traditional pecan pie — the sticky caramel-like filling, toasted pecans, and buttery richness — but skips the hard work of pie crusts and mixing bowls.
Just dump, bake, and enjoy. Once it’s out of the oven, serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of decadence.
A Quick Overview
Pioneer Woman’s Pecan Pie Dump Cake is the ultimate comfort dessert. It features a crunchy, nutty topping layered over a rich, gooey pecan filling — all topped with a buttery cake crust that bakes to golden perfection.
With only a few pantry staples like pecans, yellow cake mix, butter, and sweetened condensed milk, you’ll create a dessert that’s guaranteed to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Pecan Pie Dump Cake
- Effortless prep: No mixing, no mess — just layer and bake.
- Perfect for any celebration: A great shortcut to the traditional pecan pie.
- Crowd-favorite dessert: Ideal for potlucks, parties, or cozy nights in.
- Easy to customize: Switch up the cake mix or add extra flavors.
- Rich, buttery, and satisfying: Every bite delivers the perfect balance of crunch and gooey sweetness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make Pioneer Woman’s Pecan Pie Dump Cake, gather these simple ingredients:
- 2 cups pecan halves
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- ¼ cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 cup unsalted butter, thinly sliced (for topping)
How to Make Pioneer Woman’s Pecan Pie Dump Cake
Follow these easy steps to bake this heavenly dessert:
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Create the pecan filling base
In the baking dish, mix together sweetened condensed milk, corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and pecans. Spread evenly across the bottom.
Step 3: Add the cake mix layer
Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the pecan mixture. Do not stir — this layering is key to the dump cake texture.
Step 4: Add the butter topping
Place thin slices of butter across the surface, covering as much of the cake mix as possible for even baking.
Step 5: Bake to perfection
Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until the top turns golden and the edges are bubbling.
Step 6: Cool slightly and serve
Allow the cake to cool for 10–15 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm with ice cream or whipped cream for the best flavor.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
- Don’t stir the layers: Mixing ruins the signature dump cake texture.
- Use enough butter: Dry spots form if the butter doesn’t cover the top completely.
- Watch the bake time: Overbaking can harden the filling; check around 40 minutes for the perfect gooey center.
Delicious Ways to Serve Pecan Pie Dump Cake
Looking for creative ways to enjoy your Pioneer Woman’s Pecan Pie Dump Cake?
- As a sundae topping: Spoon over vanilla or butter pecan ice cream.
- Sweet breakfast treat: Pair a small portion with Greek yogurt.
- Coffee companion: Perfect with your afternoon brew.
- Mini desserts: Bake in muffin tins for individual servings.
Expert Tips for the Perfect Dump Cake
- Use fresh pecans for maximum crunch and flavor.
- Distribute butter evenly for a perfectly golden crust.
- Let it cool slightly so the filling can set.
- Experiment with cake mixes — try butter pecan, spice, or even chocolate.
- Line your pan with parchment paper for effortless cleanup.
Fun Twists on Pioneer Woman’s Pecan Pie Dump Cake
Want to give this classic recipe a unique twist? Try these flavor variations:
- Chocolate Pecan Dump Cake: Swap yellow cake mix for chocolate.
- Bourbon Pecan Version: Add a splash of bourbon to the filling.
- Maple Pecan Delight: Replace corn syrup with maple syrup.
- Mixed Nut Cake: Use a blend of pecans, walnuts, and almonds.
- Holiday Spice Twist: Add cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling.
How to Store and Reheat Your Pecan Pie Dump Cake
To store:
Cover and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
To freeze:
Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil and freeze for up to 2 months.
To reheat:
- Oven: Warm at 300°F for about 15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions for 20–30 seconds.
- From frozen: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven until warm.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~480
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 380mg
Final Thoughts
Pioneer Woman’s Pecan Pie Dump Cake is the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves easy, homemade sweets that deliver big flavor. With its rich pecan filling, buttery cake topping, and effortless prep, this recipe proves that delicious doesn’t have to mean difficult.
Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a family gathering, or a cozy weekend treat, this pecan pie dump cake will steal the show — every single time.
Also Read: Pioneer Woman Crock Pot Meatloaf Recipe