Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, salt, corn syrup, vanilla, eggs, and half of the melted butter (1/2 cup). Stir well to blend the ingredients thoroughly. Fold in 1 cup of the chopped pecans, ensuring they're evenly mixed.

Step 3

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

Step 4

In a separate medium bowl, mix together the dry cake mix and cinnamon until well combined. Sprinkle this cake mix mixture evenly over the pecan mixture in the baking dish.

Step 5

Drizzle the remaining 1/2 cup melted butter evenly across the top. Scatter the remaining 1 cup of pecans over the buttered cake layer.

Step 6

Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until the top is golden and the center is set. Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving, or let it cool completely for a firmer slice.

Step 7

Slice into squares and serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top. For a special touch, drizzle with caramel sauce or sprinkle extra pecans over each serving. Enjoy!