This Pecan Dump Cake is a rich, indulgent dessert that combines the nutty flavor of pecans with the sweetness of dark brown sugar, corn syrup, and a soft, cake-like topping. The cake’s simplicity makes it perfect for a quick and satisfying dessert, while its caramelized top and rich texture make it feel like a special treat. Here’s how you can make it:

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Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2¾ cups dark brown sugar, packed (divided into 2 cups and ¾ cup)
  • Dark brown sugar adds a deep, molasses-like sweetness that enhances the flavor of the pecans and syrup.
• 1 cup dark corn syrup (such as dark Karo syrup)
  • The corn syrup helps create the gooey texture of the cake filling and provides extra sweetness.
• 1¼ cups salted butter, melted and cooled (divided into ½ cup and ¾ cup)
  • The butter adds richness and a smooth texture to the cake and topping.
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • The eggs help bind the ingredients and create a moist, soft texture in the cake.
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • Vanilla extract brings a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the other ingredients.
• 4 cups pecan halves (divided into 3 cups and 1 cup)
  • Pecans provide the nutty crunch that pairs perfectly with the sweet, gooey filling.

For the Cake Mix Layer:

• 15.25 ounces white cake mix (such as Duncan Hines Classic White Cake mix)
  • The white cake mix serves as the base layer and gives the cake its structure. It absorbs the syrup and butter to form a tender, almost custard-like texture.
• 1 cup hot water
  • The hot water helps activate the cake mix, allowing the ingredients to meld together and form a luscious topping.

Optional:

• Caramel topping (for serving, optional)
  • Adding a drizzle of caramel topping enhances the richness and sweetness of the cake.

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Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Generously spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent the cake from sticking.

Step 2: Make the Pecan Mixture

1. In a medium-sized mixing bowl (2-3 quarts), whisk together:
   • 2 cups dark brown sugar
   • 1 cup dark corn syrup
   • ½ cup melted butter
   • 3 eggs (room temperature)
   • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
2. Stir in 3 cups pecan halves, making sure they are evenly distributed.
3. Spread the pecan mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Add the Cake Mix Layer

1. Sprinkle the dry white cake mix evenly over the pecan mixture, covering it completely. Do not mix.
2. Drizzle the remaining ¾ cup melted butter over the cake mix.
3. Sprinkle the remaining ¾ cup dark brown sugar over the butter layer.
4. Pour the hot water evenly over the top. Do not mix. The water will help create the signature gooey filling.
5. Optionally, you can carefully tilt the baking dish to help distribute the water evenly across the top.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

1. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of pecan halves over the top of the cake.
2. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. At the 30-minute mark, check to make sure it’s baking evenly, but do not stir.
   • The center will still be slightly jiggly, but it will firm up as the cake cools. It won’t have a solid cake-like texture in the middle.
3. Let the cake cool completely before serving to allow the flavors to set and the texture to firm up.

Step 5: Serve

1. Optional: Drizzle the cake with caramel topping for an extra indulgent touch.
2. Enjoy the cake warm, or at room temperature. The cake’s gooey center and nutty topping make it perfect for a cozy dessert.

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Tips for Success:

• Don’t Overmix: The key to a great dump cake is not mixing the ingredients after adding them to the baking dish. Let the layers meld together as they bake.
• Adjust for Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dessert, reduce the amount of sugar or syrup slightly.
• Storage: Store leftover Pecan Dump Cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can reheat it in the microwave for a warm, comforting dessert.

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Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 35-40 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Servings: 12-16

This Pecan Dump Cake is a simple, yet decadent dessert that will surely satisfy your sweet tooth with its gooey center, rich butter, and crunchy pecans. Whether you serve it as a weeknight treat or for a special occasion, it’s sure to become a favorite in your dessert rotation!