If you love desserts that are both easy and delicious, you’ll adore this Gooey Pecan Pie Dump Cake. It combines sweet pecans, golden cake mix, and gooey syrup for a treat you won’t forget. You can bake it in one dish, so cleanup is quick! Ready to impress your friends and family with this simple recipe? Let’s dive into the sweet details and create this mouthwatering delight together!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1 (15.25 oz) box yellow cake mix
– 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup corn syrup (light or dark)
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
I love using simple ingredients for this gooey pecan pie dump cake. Each one adds rich flavor and texture. The chopped pecans give a nice crunch, while the yellow cake mix makes it easy to prepare. Light brown sugar adds sweetness, and melted butter makes everything extra rich. Corn syrup brings that gooey texture that we all crave.
You will need four large eggs for binding. Vanilla extract adds warmth and depth. A pinch of salt enhances all the sweet flavors. Together, these ingredients create a delicious dessert that is hard to resist.
Optional Garnishes
– Whipped cream
– Vanilla ice cream
– Additional chopped pecans
Garnishes make this dessert even better! Whipped cream adds a light touch. Vanilla ice cream melts into the warm cake, creating a dreamy mix. More chopped pecans on top give extra crunch and look great. You can pick your favorite toppings to make it your own.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Baking Dish
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Start by setting the oven to the right temperature. This step is key for even baking. Greasing the dish helps your cake come out smoothly. Use butter or cooking spray for best results.
Mixing Ingredients
– Combine chopped pecans and brown sugar.
– Layer dry yellow cake mix.
In a bowl, mix the chopped pecans with the brown sugar. This mix adds a sweet, nutty flavor. Next, spread the dry yellow cake mix evenly in the dish. This forms the base layer for your gooey cake.
Assembling the Cake
– Pour pecan mixture over cake mix.
– Whisk together liquid ingredients and pour evenly.
Now, sprinkle the pecan and brown sugar mix over the cake mix. In another bowl, whisk the melted butter, corn syrup, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt. Once mixed, pour this syrup evenly over the cake. Make sure every part is covered for a gooey texture.
Baking the Dump Cake
– Press down edges of the mixture.
– Bake for 45-50 minutes.
Gently press down the edges of the mixture. This helps the cake absorb the syrup well. Place the dish in the oven and bake. Look for a golden brown top and bubbling around the edges. This takes about 45-50 minutes.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Recipe
– Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Fresh pecans and eggs make a big difference.
– Adjust baking time for different ovens. Some ovens run hotter, so check often.
Serving Suggestions
– Serve warm with toppings like whipped cream or ice cream. A scoop on top makes it special.
– Pair with coffee or dessert wines. The rich flavors blend well together.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
– Not greasing the baking dish properly can lead to sticking. Always grease well before adding ingredients.
– Overmixing the batter can make the cake tough. Mix just until combined for a tender texture.
Variations
Flavor Additions
You can take your Gooey Pecan Pie Dump Cake to the next level. Adding chocolate chips gives it a richer taste. Just sprinkle a cup of chocolate chips on top of the cake mix layer. For a warm, cozy flavor, try adding spices. Cinnamon or nutmeg can give your cake a nice twist. Just a teaspoon of either spice will do.
Dietary Modifications
If you need a gluten-free option, switch to gluten-free yellow cake mix. It works just as well and tastes great. For a vegan version, you can replace the eggs. Use flaxseed meal instead. Mix three tablespoons of flaxseed meal with nine tablespoons of water, and let it sit for a few minutes. This mix will act like eggs in your cake.
Customizing Ingredients
Don’t feel limited by pecans! You can try different nuts too. Walnuts or almonds can add a unique crunch. You can also experiment with flavored syrups. Maple syrup or caramel syrup can bring a different taste. Pour it over the cake mix and pecan layer for a fun twist.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your gooey pecan pie dump cake fresh, store it in an airtight container. This helps lock in moisture and flavor. You can refrigerate it for up to 5 days. Always let it cool before sealing to avoid condensation.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to save some for later, you can freeze the cake. Slice it into portions for easy serving. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the slices in the refrigerator. This keeps the texture nice.
Reheating Tips
For the best taste and texture, reheat the cake in the oven. Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes. This helps restore the gooeyness. If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave. Heat for 20-30 seconds, checking often to avoid overheating.
FAQs
What is a dump cake?
A dump cake is a simple dessert. You mix ingredients in one bowl and dump them into a baking dish. It has layers of cake mix, fruit, or nuts. The top gets crispy while the bottom stays gooey. This cake is fun to make and tasty to eat.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this cake ahead. Mix the dry ingredients and store them in a bowl. You can also whisk the wet ingredients and keep them in the fridge. When you are ready, combine the two and bake. This method saves time and keeps things simple.
Is Gooey Pecan Pie Dump Cake gluten-free?
To make this cake gluten-free, use a gluten-free yellow cake mix. Check the label to ensure it is certified gluten-free. You can also use almond flour or coconut flour for a different texture. This way, everyone can enjoy this sweet treat.
How do I know when it’s done baking?
The cake is done when the top is golden brown and bubbly. You can gently press on the top with your finger. If it springs back, it is ready. Let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy the warm, gooey goodness!
This dump cake is simple and fun, using just a few tasty ingredients. You have learned how to prepare, bake, and serve it perfectly. Remember to adjust the recipe to fit your tastes and needs. Whether you want to add flavors or use gluten-free options, there’s a version for you. Store leftovers properly to keep them fresh. Enjoying this cake, warm and topped with whipped cream or ice cream, will surely please everyone. Make your delicious Gooey Pecan Pie Dump Cake today!
