RecipeCastle

Pecan Dump Cake

Pecan Dump Cake

Ingredients

  • 2¾ cupsdark brown sugar (divided: This ingredient provides deep sweetness and a rich flavor, essential for the caramel notes in the cake.)
  • 1 cupdark corn syrup: Corn syrup helps to create a moist texture while enhancing the sweetness of the cake.
  • 1¼ cupssalted butter (divided: Rich butter adds flavor and moisture. Using salted butter balances the sweetness of the sugar.)
  • 3large eggs: Eggs are crucial for binding the ingredients together and providing structure to the cake.
  • 2 tspvanilla extract: This ingredient adds aromatic sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile.
  • 4 cupspecan halves (divided: Pecans add texture and a delightful crunch. They contribute healthy fats and protein, making each bite satisfying.)
  • 15.25 ozwhite cake mix: This convenience ingredient allows for easy cake formation while providing a tender crumb.
  • 1 cuphot water: Adding hot water aids in creating a gooey layer that seeps down into the cake during baking.
  • —Optional: Caramel topping: For an extra treat (you can add caramel sauce as a drizzle on top before serving.)

Instructions

  1. 1

    Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.

  2. 2

    Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups dark brown sugar, 1 cup dark corn syrup, ½ cup salted butter (melted), 3 large eggs, and 2 tsp vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well combined.

  3. 3

    Add Pecans: Stir in 3 cups pecan halves into the mixture, ensuring they are evenly distributed. Pour this mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

  4. 4

    Add Cake Mix: Evenly sprinkle the 15.25 oz white cake mix over the pecan mixture. Do not stir—the beauty of a dump cake is the layering of flavors.

  5. 5

    Butter and Sugar Drizzle: Melt the remaining ¾ cup of salted butter and drizzle it over the cake mix. Sprinkle ¾ cup dark brown sugar on top for extra sweetness.

  6. 6

    Add Hot Water: Carefully and gently pour 1 cup of hot water over the top, making sure not to mix it in. You want the water to seep into the layers below.

  7. 7

    Add Remaining Pecans: Finally, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of pecan halves on top for a lovely crunchy finish.

  8. 8

    Bake: Place the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for approximately 35-40 minutes. The cake should be golden brown and have a slight jiggle in the center, which will firm up as it cools.

  9. 9

    Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool a bit. It can be served warm or at room temperature, optionally topped with caramel sauce.