Caramel Apple Dump Cake Recipe

If you are on the hunt for a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, the Caramel Apple Dump Cake is your new best friend. This incredibly simple yet show-stopping treat combines the wholesome sweetness of spiced apples, the buttery richness of cake, and the irresistible allure of caramel sauce, all baked together with minimal fuss. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a newbie in the kitchen, this Caramel Apple Dump Cake will quickly become a favorite for family dinners, potlucks, or just a comforting treat to enjoy any time of the year.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the simplicity of this recipe fool you—each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures in your Caramel Apple Dump Cake. From the tender apple filling to the crunchy golden topping, everything works in harmony to deliver a dessert that is both nostalgic and exciting.

• 2 20-ounce cans apple pie filling: The star of the show, providing juicy, sweet-tart apple chunks with classic cinnamon spices.
• 1/2 cup caramel sauce + more for garnish: Adds that luscious, gooey sweetness that makes this dessert feel indulgent.
• 1 15.25-ounce box white or yellow cake mix: Creates a crunchy and lightly sweet crust that contrasts beautifully with the soft filling.
• 1 cup salted butter, melted: Binds the cake mix into a buttery topping and enhances flavor with just the right amount of saltiness.

How to Make Caramel Apple Dump Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While it heats, grab a 13- by 9-inch baking dish and spray it generously with cooking spray. This simple step prevents sticking and ensures your cake slices come out easily.

Step 2: Layer the Apples

Open the cans of apple pie filling and pour the apples straight into your prepared dish. Use a spatula to spread them out evenly so every bite will offer a balanced fruitiness. This thick and fragrant layer is what makes this cake so comforting.

Step 3: Drizzle on the Caramel

Now it’s time to pour the 1/2 cup of caramel sauce over the apples. This step is what elevates the dump cake from simple to sublime, infusing each forkful with that deep, buttery sweetness only caramel can provide. Don’t be shy here — the caramel is the magic touch!

Step 4: Add the Cake Mix and Butter

Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the apples and caramel, like a soft blanket of sugary goodness. Then, drizzle the melted salted butter over the cake mix. Using a rubber spatula, stir the cake mix and butter gently just enough to create a crumbly, batter-like topping. Remember, you want to mix the topping only; avoid stirring the apples underneath to keep the layers distinct and beautiful.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pop your assembled dish into the oven and bake for 30 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are a lovely golden brown and the center is set but still moist. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point? Pure heaven! Let the cake cool on a wire rack to room temperature before diving in.

How to Serve Caramel Apple Dump Cake

Garnishes

This dessert practically begs to be topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a generous dollop of whipped cream. The contrast of cold creaminess with the warm, caramel-soaked apples is downright dreamy. For an extra drizzle of caramel sauce on top, go ahead and indulge—it’s worth every sweet drop.

Side Dishes

If you’re serving this at a gathering or dinner, consider pairing your Caramel Apple Dump Cake with a light, fresh salad or a sharp cheddar cheese platter. The savory elements create a fascinating contrast to the sweetness, highlighting the cake’s rich flavors even more.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve individual portions in small mason jars or decorative ramekins. This makes it perfect for gifting or taking to potlucks. You can even sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar or chopped nuts on top for added texture and visual appeal. Personalizing this laden dessert makes it feel extra special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, cover the Caramel Apple Dump Cake tightly and store it in the refrigerator. It keeps beautifully for about 4 to 5 days, and chilling overnight actually makes it easier to slice cleanly. Leftovers taste just as good as the first day, promising deliciousness whenever you’re ready for a treat.

Freezing

If you want to prepare ahead or simply save some for later, this cake freezes wonderfully. Slice it into portions and pack them in airtight containers or freezer bags. It will keep for up to a month, ready to thaw when you need a quick and satisfying dessert fix.

Reheating

To warm your cake after refrigeration or freezing, use the microwave for short bursts or reheat in a conventional oven at a low temperature. This restores the gooey texture and enhances the flavors, making your Caramel Apple Dump Cake taste freshly baked all over again.

FAQs

Can I use fresh apples instead of canned apple pie filling?

Absolutely! Using fresh apples will give you a more homemade feel. Just peel, core, and slice them thinly, then mix with cinnamon and a bit of sugar before layering in the dish. Keep in mind that fresh apples may release more juice, so baking times might vary slightly.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute the regular cake mix for a gluten-free version that you trust. Make sure your apple pie filling and caramel sauce are gluten-free as well for a worry-free dessert everyone can enjoy.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to the topping?

For sure, adding chopped pecans, walnuts, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon on top before baking can add wonderful texture and flavor. It’s a great way to customize your Caramel Apple Dump Cake and make it your own.

What’s the best way to prevent the topping from being too soggy?

Be sure to distribute the cake mix and butter evenly and avoid stirring the apples into the topping. This keeps the crunchy layer intact and ensures a delightful contrast with the soft fruit underneath.

Can I use a substitute for caramel sauce?

If you don’t have caramel sauce, dulce de leche or butterscotch sauce can make luscious alternatives. They will offer a slightly different flavor profile but still maintain that rich, sweet essence that complements the apples perfectly.

Final Thoughts

Your kitchen deserves the warm, cozy magic of this Caramel Apple Dump Cake. It’s one of those desserts that feels effortlessly impressive, yet comes together in a flash. Whether you’re treating yourself or feeding a crowd, this cake delivers comfort and joy in every bite. So go ahead, grab those simple ingredients, and dive into a dessert that tastes like homemade happiness with hardly any effort at all!