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- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted - 1 cup light brown sugar, packed - 1 cup granulated sugar - 1 cup corn syrup - 4 large eggs - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1 cup chopped pecans - 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz) - 1 cup water - 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut (optional) - Whipped cream for serving (optional) To make Southern Pecan Pie Dump Cake, gather these simple ingredients. Each one plays a key role in the cake's rich flavor and texture. The unsalted butter adds a creamy base. You will melt it first to blend well with the sugars. Light brown sugar brings a warm, caramel taste. Granulated sugar adds sweetness. Corn syrup helps create the gooey filling we love in pecan pie. Next are the eggs. They help bind the cake together. Vanilla extract adds a nice aroma. Chopped pecans give crunch and nutty flavor. The yellow cake mix forms the main layer. You will combine it with water to get a light cake texture. If you want a twist, add sweetened shredded coconut. It gives a tropical flair. Lastly, whipped cream is optional but makes a perfect topping. This simple list creates a delightful treat that is hard to resist. 1. Preheating the oven Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key to baking. 2. Greasing the baking dish Next, take a 9x13-inch baking dish. Grease it with cooking spray or butter. This helps the cake not stick. 3. Mixing the wet ingredients In a large bowl, whisk together: - 1 cup unsalted butter, melted - 1 cup light brown sugar, packed - 1 cup granulated sugar - 1 cup corn syrup - 4 large eggs - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Mix well until everything is combined. 4. Incorporating pecans and coconut Now, fold in: - 1 cup chopped pecans - 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut (optional) Gently stir until the nuts and coconut are evenly mixed in. 1. Pouring the mixture into the dish Pour the pecan mixture into your greased baking dish. Spread it evenly across the bottom. 2. Adding the cake mix and water Next, sprinkle 1 box of yellow cake mix evenly over the top. Then, carefully pour 1 cup of water over the cake mix. Do not stir! 3. Baking time and temperature Place the dish in your preheated oven. Bake for about 45-50 minutes. Look for a golden top and bubbly filling. 1. Letting it cool When done, take it out of the oven. Allow it to cool for about 10-15 minutes. This helps it set. 2. Serving suggestions with whipped cream Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream on top. It adds a nice touch to this sweet treat! - Overmixing the batter: Mix your ingredients just until they combine. Too much mixing makes the cake tough. - Skipping the cooling time: Let the cake cool for 10-15 minutes. This helps it set and enhances flavor. - Choosing the right pecans: Use fresh, high-quality pecans. They add crunch and great flavor. Toast them lightly for an even richer taste. - Alternatives for sweeteners: You can swap light brown sugar for coconut sugar. This gives a deeper flavor. Honey or maple syrup can also work in place of corn syrup. - Adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg: A pinch of these spices can brighten your cake. They add warmth that pairs well with pecans. - Using flavored extracts: Try almond or maple extract instead of vanilla. This gives your cake a unique twist. {{image_2}} One fun twist is the chocolate pecan pie dump cake. You can add chocolate chips to the batter. This makes a rich, sweet treat that many will love. For a nut-free version, simply skip the pecans. You can replace them with more coconut or use crushed cookies for crunch. These options keep your dessert tasty and enjoyable for everyone. If you need a gluten-free cake, look for a gluten-free cake mix. Many brands offer tasty options that work great in this recipe. For vegan adaptations, swap the eggs with flax eggs or applesauce. Use a plant-based butter substitute, and choose a vegan cake mix. These changes help you enjoy the same great taste while meeting your dietary needs. You can easily add festive spices for the holidays. Try cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to warm up the flavors. In fall, consider adding pumpkin puree for a fun twist. In summer, you can incorporate seasonal fruits like blueberries or peaches. These fruits add a fresh touch and enhance the sweetness of your cake. To keep your Southern pecan pie dump cake fresh, follow these steps: - Refrigeration methods: Allow the cake to cool completely. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. You can also place it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to five days. - Freezing tips: If you want to freeze it, slice the cake first. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and then in foil. Place the wrapped slices in a freezer bag. This way, you can take out only what you need. The cake will last for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy your leftover cake, reheating is key: - Best methods for maintaining texture: The microwave is quick. Heat a slice for about 15-20 seconds. If you prefer the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the slice on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes. This keeps the cake soft and warm. - Recommended serving temperature: Enjoy your cake warm. This brings out the flavors and makes it even more delightful. Knowing how long your cake lasts is important: - How long it lasts in the fridge: Properly stored, the cake will stay fresh in the fridge for about five days. - Signs of spoilage: If you see mold or notice an off smell, it's best to toss it. Always trust your senses when checking for freshness. A dump cake is a simple dessert that needs little prep. You "dump" ingredients into a dish, layer them, and bake. For Southern Pecan Pie Dump Cake, you mix butter, sugars, corn syrup, and eggs. Then, you add pecans and cake mix. Lastly, you pour water on top. This method makes it easy and fun to create a tasty treat. Yes, you can prepare this cake ahead of time. Mix the wet ingredients and pecans, then store in the fridge. You can also layer the cake mix on top. When ready to bake, add water and bake it. This method saves time for busy days. Just remember to adjust baking time if cold from the fridge. Look for a golden brown top; this shows it is ready. You can also test if it is done. Insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, it is done. The filling should be bubbly around the edges. Let it cool a bit before serving, and enjoy the sweet aroma! Southern pecan pie dump cake is simple and delicious. We covered the key ingredients, easy steps, and helpful tips. Remember to avoid overmixing and let it cool before serving. You can try fun variations and store leftovers properly for later enjoyment. With these ideas, you can impress your friends and family. Enjoy this wonderful dessert, and make it your own with unique flavors and adjustments. Happy baking!

Southern Pecan Pie Dump Cake

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Southern Pecan Pie Dump Cake! This easy-to-make recipe combines rich pecans and a buttery cake mix for a dessert that's sure to impress. In just an hour, you’ll have a warm, gooey treat perfect for any occasion. Serve it with whipped cream for an extra touch of sweetness.
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Ingredients
  

1 cup unsalted butter, melted

1 cup light brown sugar, packed

1 cup granulated sugar

1 cup corn syrup

4 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup chopped pecans

1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)

1 cup water

1 cup sweetened shredded coconut (optional)

Whipped cream for serving (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.

    In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, corn syrup, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.

      Fold in the chopped pecans and sweetened shredded coconut (if using) into the mixture.

        Pour the pecan mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.

          Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the pecan mixture, ensuring good coverage.

            Carefully pour the water over the cake mix, ensuring it reaches all parts (do not stir!).

              Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.

                Remove from the oven and let cool for about 10-15 minutes before serving.

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 12

                    - Serving Suggestion: Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra indulgence. Enjoy your delightful twist on a Southern classic!