Easy Cake Tastes Like Pecan Pie

Prep: 15 min Cook: 45 min Cuisine: American

A rich, sweet dessert that mimics pecan pie with a cake-like texture, perfect for parties and gatherings, combining caramel, pecans, and buttery flavor.

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Ingredients

  • 1 box yellow cake mix
  • 1 egg
  • 1 stick butter or margarine
  • 1 1/2 cups light corn syrup
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar
  • 3 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 2/3 cup reserved cake mix
  • 2 cups chopped pecans

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Pour the light corn syrup mixture over the crust.
  3. Bake in the oven for 45 minutes.
  4. Cool thoroughly overnight.
  5. Cut into bite-size squares and serve.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using dark corn syrup instead of light. If you're out of pecans, walnuts can be a great substitute. To enhance the vanilla flavor, use vanilla bean paste instead of extract. Make sure to mix the butter and eggs thoroughly to achieve a fluffy texture. If you prefer a crunchier topping, add an extra 1/2 cup of chopped pecans before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the cake squares warm or at room temperature for a delightful dessert. They pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For added decadence, drizzle with caramel sauce. This dessert is perfect for gatherings and can complement a meal of Nashville Squash Casserole or other comforting American recipes.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place the squares in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds or warm them in an oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through, ensuring they retain their moist texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Easy Cake Tastes Like Pecan Pie contains roughly 1747 calories, with 12g protein, 245g carbohydrates, and 76g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (30% of the Daily Value), protein (25% of the Daily Value), and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 879mg per serving (38% of the Daily Value).

1747 kcal 87% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 12.3g 25% DV
Total Fat 76.5g 98% DV
Carbs 244.7g 89% DV
Fiber 5.2g 18% DV
Sugar 101.8g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 879.2mg 38% DV
Potassium 636.3mg 14% DV
Cholesterol 236.1mg 79% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 34.3mcg 4% DV
Vitamin C 0.6mg 1% DV
Calcium 392.7mg 30% DV
Iron 4.1mg 23% DV
Diet fit High-fiber
Contains Milk Egg Tree nuts

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, this cake can be made a day in advance. In fact, cooling it overnight enhances the flavors and allows the texture to set properly. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.

What can I substitute for corn syrup?

If you don't have corn syrup, you can substitute it with an equal amount of maple syrup or honey. Keep in mind that using these alternatives may slightly alter the flavor and sweetness, but they will still provide that sticky texture essential for this recipe.

Can I freeze the leftover cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake squares. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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