Name: Delicious Pecan Pie Cake That Will Warm Your Heart
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 90 min
Ingredients: 1 box Butter Pecan Cake Mix (or vanilla/yellow cake mix); 1/2 cup Softened Butter (room temperature); 1 cup Light Brown Sugar (can substitute with granulated sugar); 4 large Eggs (for binding); 1 cup Water (can replace with milk); 1 cup Chopped Pecans (toasted preferred); 1 cup Light Corn Syrup; 1/4 cup Milk (for creaminess)

The aroma of warm vanilla and toasted pecans fills my kitchen as I prepare to share a delightful twist on an iconic dessert: Pecan Pie Cake. This simple yet luxurious recipe marries the rich, buttery flavors of traditional pecan pie with the soft, comforting texture of cake – a perfect union that will make your taste buds dance with joy. What I love about this Pecan Pie Cake is how effortlessly it comes together, using a cake mix that ensures even novice bakers can shine. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or craving a slice of comfort on a cozy evening, this dessert promises to be a standout on any table. Ready for a treat that’s incredibly easy to make and sure to impress? Let’s dive into this sweet creation!

Why is Pecan Pie Cake So Irresistible?

Comforting and cozy, this Pecan Pie Cake combines the best of both worlds: the gooey sweetness of traditional pecan pie and the soft, fluffy texture of cake. Time-saving with its easy, cake mix base, even beginners will find success here. Versatile for any occasion, it’s perfect for holiday feasts or casual family dinners. Rich flavors from butter, brown sugar, and pecans create an unforgettable dessert experience. Crowd-pleasing and delightful, your loved ones will be coming back for seconds (and thirds!). Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an enhanced treat – it’s truly a dessert that brings warmth to your heart and table!

Pecan Pie Cake Ingredients

For the Cake Base
• Butter Pecan Cake Mix – This creates the rich flavor and texture; you can swap it for vanilla or yellow cake mix if desired.
• Softened Butter – Adds extra moisture; make sure it’s at room temperature for smooth mixing.
• Light Brown Sugar – Introduces caramel notes; feel free to use granulated sugar for a different sweetness profile.
• Eggs (4 total) – A key ingredient for binding the cake and topping; they ensure the perfect gooey texture.
• Water – Necessary for mixing; replace with milk to enrich the cake’s flavor.

For the Topping
• Chopped Pecans – Essential for that nutty pecan flavor, toasting them first brings out their richness.
• Light Corn Syrup – Provides moisture and sweetness, necessary for that gooey topping texture.
• Milk – Balances the sweetness while adding creaminess to the topping; don’t skip it for best results.

Let your kitchen fill with the sweet aroma of this delightful Pecan Pie Cake as you gather these simple ingredients!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pecan Pie Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). While the oven warms up, take a 9×13-inch baking pan and generously grease it with butter or cooking spray to ensure easy removal later. This initial step sets the stage for achieving the perfectly baked Pecan Pie Cake you’ll soon create.

Step 2: Mix the Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the butter pecan cake mix, softened butter, light brown sugar, eggs, and water. Use a hand mixer or whisk to blend the ingredients on medium speed for about 2 minutes, until the mixture is smooth and creamy. The batter should be thick and well combined, ready for the chopped pecans to elevate that irresistible cake flavor.

Step 3: Incorporate the Pecans
Gently fold in the chopped pecans into the batter using a spatula, ensuring they are evenly distributed. This step enhances the texture and adds that signature nutty flavor to your Pecan Pie Cake. Once combined, pour the batter into the greased baking pan, spreading it evenly to create a solid base for your layered creation.

Step 4: Bake the Cake Base
Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake the cake base for about 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. This step is crucial, as it forms the perfect foundation for the gooey topping to come.

Step 5: Prepare the Topping
While the cake base is baking, whisk together the softened butter, eggs, sugar, light corn syrup, milk, and the reserved cake mix in another bowl. Mix until completely smooth and well combined, creating a creamy, luscious topping. This mixture will create that signature gooey layer that partners beautifully with the cake.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake Again
Once the cake base has finished baking, remove it from the oven. Carefully pour the prepared topping mixture evenly over the hot cake base, smoothing it out if needed. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 30 to 35 minutes. The center should be slightly jiggly but set when you gently shake the pan, indicating the Pecan Pie Cake is ready.

Step 7: Cool and Serve
After baking, allow the cake to cool for about 15-20 minutes in the pan. This resting period lets the layers meld perfectly. Once slightly cooled, slice into generous squares and serve warm. For an extra indulgent treat, pair each slice of Pecan Pie Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to enhance its delightful flavors.

Expert Tips for Pecan Pie Cake

Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh eggs and butter for the best flavor and texture in your Pecan Pie Cake. Old ingredients can dry out your dessert.
Mixing Technique: Avoid overmixing your batter. Just combine ingredients until smooth for a light and fluffy cake. Overworking can make it dense.
Even Baking: An oven thermometer is your best friend! Ensuring your oven is at the right temperature supports even baking, avoiding a soggy bottom.
Cooling Time: Allow your cake to cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This will keep the gooey topping intact and prevent it from falling apart.
Serving Warm: For that ultimate comfort-food experience, serve the Pecan Pie Cake warm. The flavors are enhanced, creating a cozy treat that’s hard to resist!

How to Store and Freeze Pecan Pie Cake

Room Temperature: Allow the Pecan Pie Cake to cool completely before covering it with plastic wrap or foil. It can stay fresh at room temperature for up to 1 day.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This keeps the cake moist and flavorful while preventing it from drying out.
Freezer: Wrap slices of the Pecan Pie Cake tightly in plastic wrap, then place inside a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months, maintaining its delicious flavors.
Reheating: To enjoy frozen slices, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in the microwave or warm in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until heated through.

What to Serve with Pecan Pie Cake

Delightful meals are made complete with the right accompaniments, creating a feast for the senses.

Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cold scoops melt alongside the warm cake, enhancing its rich flavors in every bite.
Whipped Cream: A fluffy dollop adds a light, airy contrast that complements the gooey texture of the cake beautifully.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling this sweet, sticky goodness over a warm slice introduces layers of flavor that make this dessert even more indulgent.
Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit medley provides a refreshing contrast; the natural sweetness balances the richness of the cake perfectly.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: This seasonal favorite pairs wonderfully, with its warming spices echoing the cozy feeling of the dessert itself.
Chai Tea: The spiced notes of chai tea bring a comforting element, enveloping your taste buds in warmth as you savor the cake.

Enjoy the perfect pairing of flavors and textures for a memorable gathering or a cozy evening at home!

Pecan Pie Cake Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore and customize this Pecan Pie Cake to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs!

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cake mix instead of traditional cake mix for a similar texture without gluten.
Chocolate Twist: Swap in a chocolate cake mix for a rich, decadent flavor that pairs beautifully with the pecans.
Extra Nutty: Add a mix of chopped walnuts or pecans to the topping for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor explosion.
Fruit Infusion: Incorporate dried fruits like cranberries or chopped apples in the cake batter for a fruity twist and added moisture.
Dairy-Free: Replace butter with coconut oil or vegan butter and use almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free dessert that everyone can enjoy.
Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over the top for an indulgent and sweet finish.
Spice it Up: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter and topping to bring warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
Seasonal Flair: Incorporate pumpkin puree, especially around the holidays. This will give a festive touch reminiscent of pumpkin pie alongside the pecans.

Feeling adventurous? You might also want to try pairing this cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or serving it alongside my famous Buttery Pecan Snowball for an extraordinary dessert experience that will surely please your guests!

Make Ahead Options

These Pecan Pie Cake components are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cake base and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply mix the cake base as directed, then cover and store it in the fridge. Additionally, the topping can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour the topping over the cooled cake base and bake it straight from the fridge for delicious results. This make-ahead approach saves time and ensures your Pecan Pie Cake will taste just as delightful as if prepared fresh!

Pecan Pie Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of cake mix works best for this cake?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for butter pecan cake mix, you can swap it with vanilla or yellow cake mix for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that this may slightly alter the taste and richness of your final dessert!

How should I store leftover Pecan Pie Cake?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to 4 days. This keeps the cake moist and delicious! For room temperature storage, ensure the cake is completely cooled and covered, where it will stay fresh for about 1 day.

Can I freeze Pecan Pie Cake?
Yes! Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It’s best enjoyed within 3 months for optimal flavor. To reheat frozen slices, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and then warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.

What if my cake ends up dense or dry?
Very good question! If your Pecan Pie Cake turns out dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter—mix until just combined for a lighter texture. Also, ensure your ingredients are fresh, as old eggs or butter can lead to dryness. If it does turn out dry, you can serve it with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of ice cream to add moisture.

Are there any allergens in this recipe that I should be aware of?
Yes, this Pecan Pie Cake contains common allergens, including eggs and dairy. Additionally, pecans are used, so individuals with nut allergies should avoid this recipe altogether. Feel free to substitute the nuts if you’re looking to accommodate dietary restrictions!