Apple Dump Cake

This Apple Dump Cake is one of the easiest desserts you can prepare, requiring minimal effort yet delivering maximum flavor. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a warm, comforting treat that tastes like homemade apple pie with a buttery cake topping. Perfect for family gatherings, holiday meals, or when you want a quick dessert without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare with minimal steps

• Uses simple pantry ingredients

• Warm, comforting flavors perfect for fall or any time of year

• Great for serving a crowd

• Pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Apple pie filling

• Yellow cake mix

• Unsalted butter

• Ground cinnamon (optional, for extra flavor)

• Chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with butter or non-stick spray.

3. Spread the apple pie filling evenly in the bottom of the baking dish.

4. Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the apples. Do not stir.

5. Slice butter into thin pieces and lay them evenly over the top of the cake mix.

6. Sprinkle with cinnamon and nuts if desired.

7. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling around the edges.

8. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Servings and timing

This Apple Dump Cake serves about 12 people.

• Prep time: 5 minutes

• Cook time: 45 minutes

• Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Use spice cake mix instead of yellow cake mix for a deeper flavor.

• Substitute the apple pie filling with cherry, blueberry, or peach pie filling for a different fruit base.

• Add caramel drizzle over the baked cake for extra richness.

• Incorporate oats into the topping for added texture.

• Make it nut-free by skipping nuts if allergies are a concern.

storage/reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave for 20–30 seconds or place the dish in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10–15 minutes until heated through.

• This dessert can also be frozen. Wrap tightly and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make Apple Dump Cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake it a day in advance and reheat before serving.

Can I use fresh apples instead of pie filling?

Yes, but you should cook the apples with sugar and spices first to create a similar texture to pie filling.

What type of cake mix works best?

Yellow cake mix is traditional, but white or spice cake mix also works well.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Yes, but butter provides a richer flavor.

Do I need to stir the layers?

No, dump cakes are made by layering. Do not stir.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply use a gluten-free cake mix.

Is it better served warm or cold?

It is best enjoyed warm, especially with ice cream or whipped cream.

Can I add extra spices?

Yes, cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice enhance the flavor.

Can I bake this in a slow cooker?

Yes, cook on low for 2–3 hours or until the topping is golden.

How do I know when it is done?

The top should be golden brown, and the filling should be bubbling around the edges.

Conclusion

Apple Dump Cake is the perfect dessert when you need something simple yet satisfying. With minimal prep and only a few ingredients, it is a crowd-pleaser that tastes like a homemade apple pie with half the effort. Whether you serve it at a holiday gathering, family dinner, or casual get-together, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

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