Apple Dump Cake Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as easy as it is delicious, you’ve come to the right place. This Apple Dump Cake Recipe is seriously one of my all-time favorite quick treats, especially when I need something cozy without a ton of fuss. It’s sweet, cinnamon-spiced, and has that perfect balance of gooey apple filling and a crisp golden crust. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to keep this one on hand for all your busy nights or impromptu guest visits.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

What I love about this Apple Dump Cake Recipe is how simple and pantry-friendly the ingredients are. Each one complements the apples to create that classic fall flavor we all crave. Plus, I’ll share a few tips to help you shop smart and get the best results.

• Apple Pie Filling: Using canned pie filling saves tons of prep time and ensures perfectly spiced, tender apples every time.
• Yellow Cake Mix: A boxed mix is your shortcut to that soft and sweet cake topping without the fuss of baking from scratch.
• Light Brown Sugar: Adds a caramel-like depth and enhances the warm cinnamon flavor.
• Ground Cinnamon: The classic spice that brings the whole dessert to life with a cozy aroma.
• Salted Butter: I like to slice it thin so it melts evenly over the cake mix, creating that irresistible golden crust.
• Chopped Pecans (Optional): Adds a lovely crunch and nutty flavor, but feel free to skip if you’re nut-free.
• Vanilla Ice Cream or Whipped Cream: Perfect for serving—melts into the warm cake beautifully.
• Caramel Sauce: A drizzle on top takes things over the edge into pure indulgence.

Variations

I’m all about making recipes your own, so I encourage you to play around with this Apple Dump Cake Recipe. It’s forgiving and fun to tweak depending on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences.

• Using Fresh Apples: I did this once when I ran out of canned filling, and it works beautifully—just peel, core, and chop about 3 apples, then toss with a bit of brown sugar before layering.
• Crockpot Version: Perfect for hands-off cooking; just layer in your slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours—great for busy days or when you want the house smelling amazing all afternoon.
• Campfire Dutch Oven: I tried this during a camping trip, and it was a hit! Wrap it in foil, place on hot coals, and cook for 30 minutes for a fun outdoor twist.
• Nut-Free: Simply leave out the pecans if you have allergies or don’t have any on hand—still delicious and just as comforting.

How to Make Apple Dump Cake Recipe

Step 1: Ready Your Pan and Preheat

I usually use a 9×9-inch baking dish for a nice thick cake, but if you’re feeding a crowd or want a thinner layer, a 9×13-inch pan works perfectly. Preheat your oven to 350°F and get your ingredients ready—this recipe comes together in a snap.

Step 2: Layer the Apple Pie Filling

Dump the entire can of apple pie filling evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. I love the way the juicy apples bubble up as it bakes, giving that beautiful saucy base that makes you want to dig right in.

Step 3: Mix and Sprinkle the Cake Topping

In a medium bowl, combine the cake mix, brown sugar, and cinnamon thoroughly. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the apple layer. I found that distributing it as evenly as possible ensures that every bite has that perfect sweet cake crust.

Step 4: Add the Butter and Pecans

Slice your butter thinly and scatter it across the cake mix topping. This is the trick that makes the topping crisp and golden—it melts slowly as the cake bakes. Sprinkle pecans on top if you’re using them. They add a lovely crunch that my family adores.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling

Pop your dish into the oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until you see golden brown edges and the apples are bubbling around the sides. If you’re watching closely, you’ll notice the smell that fills your kitchen—the best kind of reward!

Step 6: Serve Warm and Enjoy

I especially love to serve this with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, and a drizzle of caramel sauce if I’m feeling fancy. Watching that ice cream melt into the warm cake? Pure magic.

How to Serve Apple Dump Cake Recipe

Garnishes

I always add a scoop of vanilla ice cream right on top—it’s that classic combo, and you can’t go wrong there. Sometimes I also drizzle warm caramel sauce or sprinkle a little extra cinnamon sugar for a sweet finish. Whipped cream is a great lighter alternative that still adds a creamy touch.

Side Dishes

This dessert pairs wonderfully with a simple cup of coffee or hot tea, especially on chilly evenings. For dinner sides, something like roasted pork or turkey goes hand-in-hand with the apples and cinnamon flavors in the cake.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve served the Apple Dump Cake in individual ramekins and topped each with toasted pecans and a sprig of fresh mint—makes it feel a bit fancier but is still super easy. You could also layer it in a trifle dish with whipped cream for an impressive look that everyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After it cools, I cover the dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap and keep it in the fridge. It usually lasts about 3-4 days, and the flavors actually deepen overnight. I find that storing it uncovered for the last hour helps bring back some crispness before reheating.

Freezing

I have frozen Apple Dump Cake slices before by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and then placing in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it up gently in the oven or microwave.

Reheating

Microwaving works fine for a quick fix, but if you want to revive some crispness, warming leftovers in a 325°F oven for 10-15 minutes gets the top nice and golden again without drying out the apples.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Honestly, this Apple Dump Cake Recipe has saved me on more than one occasion when I wanted a homemade dessert without the work. It’s warm, comforting, and feels like a big hug on a plate. Whether you serve it at a family dinner, a casual weeknight, or outdoor camping, it won’t disappoint. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do—don’t forget to come back and leave a comment or rating once you try it out!

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