Preheat your oven to 350°F.
In a big mixing bowl, blend pancake mix, dark brown sugar, baking powder, and cinnamon. Add vanilla extract and milk, stirring until just mixed. Avoid overmixing!
Melt butter either in the microwave or on the stovetop. Pour it into the bottom of an 11×6 baking dish.
Scoop the batter into the buttered dish, using a spatula to smooth it out. Don't worry if some butter flows over.
Sprinkle pecans evenly on top, then add a layer of brown sugar followed by toffee bits.
Pour the hot water over it. Do not mix!
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown on top. Let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream!