Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Apple Dump Cake is the ultimate comfort dessert that combines the warm, sweet flavors of apples with a buttery, cake-like topping. It’s as easy as it gets—just “dump” the ingredients into a baking dish and let the oven do the work. The result is a gooey, golden, and absolutely delicious treat that tastes like a homemade apple pie but without the effort. Perfect for fall, this dessert is ideal for family gatherings, holiday dinners, or any time you want a warm and comforting dessert with minimal prep.

Ingredients

  • 2 cans (21 oz each) apple pie filling (or homemade apple filling)

  • 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix (or spice cake mix for extra warmth)

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

  • 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.

  2. Prepare the filling: Spread the apple pie filling evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. If you’re using homemade apple filling, just make sure the apples are soft and sweetened to your liking.

  3. Add spices: Sprinkle the cinnamon and nutmeg (if using) evenly over the apple filling for extra warmth and flavor.

  4. Add the cake mix: Evenly sprinkle the dry cake mix over the apple filling. Do not stir; just spread it out as evenly as possible.

  5. Pour the butter: Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the cake mix. Try to cover as much of the dry cake mix as possible. This will create a golden, crispy topping.

  6. Optional topping: Sprinkle the chopped nuts over the top of the cake mix for a bit of crunch and extra flavor.

  7. Bake the cake: Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. The filling should be bubbly around the edges, and a toothpick inserted into the topping should come out clean.

  8. Serve: Let the dump cake cool for 10 minutes before serving. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a delicious treat.

Servings and timing

  • Servings: 8-10

  • Prep time: 10 minutes

  • Cook time: 40-45 minutes

  • Total time: 50-55 minutes

Variations

  • Crispy topping: For a crunchier topping, mix in a handful of oats, or sprinkle some brown sugar over the cake mix before drizzling the butter on top.

  • Caramel twist: Drizzle some caramel sauce over the apple filling before adding the cake mix for an extra indulgent dessert.

  • Spicy apple cake: Use a spice cake mix instead of yellow cake mix for an extra flavor boost, making it taste even more like an apple pie.

  • Different fruit: Swap the apple pie filling for other fruit fillings like peach, cherry, or mixed berries. You can also combine different fruit fillings for a unique twist.

  • Gluten-free version: Use a gluten-free cake mix to make this dessert gluten-free. Ensure your pie filling is also gluten-free if necessary.

Storage

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

  • Reheating: To reheat, place slices in the microwave for 30-60 seconds, or heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dump cake ahead of time and store it in the fridge (without baking) for up to 24 hours. Bake it right before you’re ready to serve it.

Can I use fresh apples instead of pie filling?

Yes! If you prefer to use fresh apples, peel and chop them, then cook them with sugar, cinnamon, and a little lemon juice until they’re soft and saucy. This will give you a more homemade feel.

How can I make this cake less sweet?

If you prefer a less sweet dessert, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the apple filling or use a sugar-free cake mix. Additionally, you can skip the nuts and topping for a lighter version.

Can I use a different cake mix flavor?

Yes, you can use any flavor of cake mix you like. Spice cake, vanilla, or even a chocolate cake mix can make this dessert your own.

Can I freeze apple dump cake?

Yes, you can freeze the apple dump cake before baking it. Just assemble the dessert, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.

Can I use a different topping than nuts?

Absolutely! You can skip the nuts or substitute them with coconut flakes, granola, or even a streusel topping made from flour, sugar, and butter for an extra crispy crunch.

Conclusion

Apple Dump Cake is an incredibly easy and satisfying dessert that combines the rich flavors of apples and cinnamon with a golden, buttery cake topping. Whether you’re craving a cozy fall treat or a quick dessert for any occasion, this dump cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Simple to make and completely customizable, it’s a perfect dish to serve at family gatherings, potlucks, or after a weeknight meal. Top it with ice cream or whipped cream for the perfect finishing touch!

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Apple Dump Cake

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Apple Dump Cake is an easy, comforting dessert with the flavors of apple pie topped with a golden, buttery cake topping. Just ‘dump’ the ingredients in a baking dish and let the oven work its magic for a delicious and effortless treat.

  • Author: Catherine
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
  • Total Time: 50-55 minutes
  • Yield: 8-10 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • For the cake:
  • 2 cans (21 oz each) apple pie filling (or homemade apple filling)
  • 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix (or spice cake mix for extra warmth)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
  • 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
  2. Prepare the filling: Spread the apple pie filling evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
  3. Add spices: Sprinkle the cinnamon and nutmeg (if using) evenly over the apple filling.
  4. Add the cake mix: Evenly sprinkle the dry cake mix over the apple filling without stirring.
  5. Pour the butter: Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the cake mix, covering as much as possible.
  6. Optional topping: Sprinkle the chopped nuts over the cake mix for added crunch and flavor.
  7. Bake the cake: Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly around the edges.
  8. Serve: Let the dump cake cool for 10 minutes before serving. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Notes

Crispy topping: Add oats or brown sugar to the cake mix for a crunchier topping.Caramel twist: Drizzle caramel sauce over the apple filling for an indulgent flavor.Spicy apple cake: Use a spice cake mix for an apple pie-inspired flavor.Different fruit: Swap apple pie filling for peach, cherry, or mixed berry filling for variation.Gluten-free: Use gluten-free cake mix for a gluten-free version.Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 40g
  • Sodium: 200mg
  • Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 35mg

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