If you’re craving a dessert that’s as cozy as a warm hug and as easy as pie (literally), then the Caramel Apple Dump Cake Recipe is about to become your new best friend. This delightful dessert combines tender, cinnamon-kissed apples with luscious caramel and a golden cake topping that bakes to perfection without any fuss or fancy mixing bowls. It’s the perfect fall treat, yet so simple you can whip it up any day of the year to impress family, guests, or just treat yourself to a little slice of happiness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Caramel Apple Dump Cake Recipe uses a handful of everyday ingredients that each play a vital role in creating a harmony of flavors and textures. From the juicy apple pie filling to the buttery cake topping, every component brings something special to the table.
- 2 (21 oz) cans apple pie filling: The heart of the dessert, giving sweet, tender apple chunks bursting with fruitiness.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional): Sprinkled on the apples for a warm, spicy note that complements the fruit perfectly.
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce: Adds a rich, buttery sweetness that melds beautifully with the apples.
- 1 box yellow cake mix: Forms the golden, crumbly topping that soaks up all the juicy goodness beneath.
- 1/2 cup butter, melted (1 stick): Poured over the cake mix, it creates a crisp, buttery crust as it bakes.
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor when sprinkled on at the end.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional): Enhances the overall depth and richness of the dessert.
How to Make Caramel Apple Dump Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with either non-stick spray or butter to ensure your cake doesn’t stick and comes out perfectly baked.
Step 2: Spread the Apple Pie Filling
Pour both cans of apple pie filling evenly into the prepared baking dish. This layer forms the juicy base, so spread it out nicely for even cooking and consistent sweetness in every bite.
Step 3: Add the Cinnamon
If you love a little spice in your life, sprinkle the ground cinnamon over the apples now. It’s optional but highly recommended as it elevates the flavors with an inviting warmth that feels like fall in every forkful.
Step 4: Drizzle the Caramel Sauce
Next, drizzle the luscious caramel sauce on top of the apples. This silky layer is what turns this simple cake into a decadent treat by adding that rich, buttery sweet touch.
Step 5: Sprinkle the Cake Mix
Evenly sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over the apple and caramel concoction. Remember, do not stir — just let the cake mix sit on top, ready to absorb all the moisture and flavor as it bakes.
Step 6: Pour Melted Butter Evenly
Slowly pour the melted butter over the cake mix, focusing on getting an even distribution. The butter will soak into the dry mix and create that irresistible golden crust with a perfect cozy crunch.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling
Place your dish in the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. Keep an eye on it after 40 minutes to avoid over-baking. The cake topping should turn a beautiful golden brown and you’ll see the apples bubbling happily underneath.
Step 8: Add Nuts for Crunch (Optional)
If you’re using chopped walnuts or pecans, sprinkle them on top during the last 10 minutes of baking. This allows them to toast just right without burning, adding a lovely crunch and nutty flavor.
Step 9: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, remove the Caramel Apple Dump Cake from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. This rest time helps the flavors settle and makes it easier to serve.
Step 10: Serve Warm with Toppings
Scoop out warm portions and serve with your favorite accompaniment, whether a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of fluffy whipped cream for ultimate indulgence.
How to Serve Caramel Apple Dump Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes not only makes the cake look stunning but also enhances its flavor profile. A sprinkling of powdered sugar or a drizzle of extra caramel sauce can take the presentation over the top, and a few extra toasted nuts add that perfect finishing touch.
Side Dishes
This Caramel Apple Dump Cake Recipe is a star all on its own but pairs wonderfully with side dishes like hot coffee, spiced tea, or even a small salad of fresh greens if you want a refreshing contrast to the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, consider serving the dump cake in individual ramekins or mason jars to make it feel personalized and even cozier. Layer with whipped cream or a crumble topping for extra texture, and don’t forget a cinnamon stick or sprig of mint as a garnish to impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover any leftover Caramel Apple Dump Cake tightly and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to four days, making it perfect for enjoying again without any sacrifice in flavor or texture.
Freezing
If you want to keep your dessert longer, Caramel Apple Dump Cake freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil or store in an airtight container. Freeze for up to two months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
To bring leftovers back to life, reheat a portion in the microwave for about 30 to 45 seconds or warm the whole dish in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes. Add a scoop of ice cream after reheating for the ultimate treat.
FAQs
Can I make the Caramel Apple Dump Cake Recipe with fresh apples?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh apples, peel and slice about 6-8 medium apples and toss them with sugar, cinnamon, and a bit of lemon juice before layering. It might change the moisture content slightly, so keep an eye on baking time.
Is there a way to make this dessert gluten-free?
Yes! Try using a gluten-free yellow cake mix and ensure your caramel sauce is gluten-free as well. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this an easy adaptation.
Can I substitute the yellow cake mix with something else?
You certainly can. Spice cake mix adds wonderful warmth and depth, or a white cake mix if you want a lighter flavor. Just keep the proportions the same for best results.
What type of caramel sauce works best?
A good-quality store-bought caramel sauce works fine, but if you have time to make homemade caramel sauce, it adds an incredible richness that’s worth the extra effort.
How can I prevent the cake topping from becoming soggy?
Distributing the melted butter evenly over the cake mix is key, as it creates a crisp crust. Also, avoid mixing the cake mix into the apples—letting it sit on top ensures it bakes to a perfect golden crisp.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about the simplicity and flavor of this Caramel Apple Dump Cake Recipe. It’s the kind of dessert that feels like home with every bite and is effortless enough to whip up even on your busiest days. Give it a try, share it with loved ones, and watch it quickly become a cherished favorite in your kitchen.
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Caramel Apple Dump Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This Caramel Apple Dump Cake is a deliciously simple dessert that combines tender apple pie filling with a rich caramel drizzle and a buttery cake topping. Easy to prepare with minimal ingredients, this dump cake bakes into a golden, bubbling treat perfect for fall gatherings or any cozy night in. The optional cinnamon and nuts add extra warmth and crunch, while serving with ice cream or whipped cream elevates the indulgence.
Ingredients
Fruit Base
- 2 (21 oz) cans apple pie filling
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Cake Topping
- 1 box yellow cake mix (or spice cake mix for added flavor)
- 1/2 cup butter, melted (1 stick)
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for extra depth of flavor)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Layer the Apples: Spread both cans of apple pie filling evenly into the prepared baking dish to form the base layer.
- Add Cinnamon (Optional): If desired, sprinkle the ground cinnamon evenly over the apple filling for added warmth and spice.
- Drizzle Caramel: Pour the caramel sauce evenly over the apples, ensuring good coverage for a rich, sweet flavor.
- Sprinkle Cake Mix: Evenly sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over the apple and caramel mixture. Do not stir; leave the cake mix to cover the fruit layer completely.
- Pour Melted Butter: Drizzle the melted butter slowly over the cake mix, distributing it as evenly as possible. This will help the topping develop a golden, crispy crust during baking.
- Bake the Cake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes until the top is golden brown and the apples are bubbling. Start checking at the 40-minute mark to avoid over-baking.
- Add Nuts (Optional): If using nuts, sprinkle them on top during the last 10 minutes of baking to toast them without burning.
- Cool Slightly: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes to set before serving.
- Serve: Enjoy warm, ideally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent finish.
Notes
- For extra flavor, substitute the yellow cake mix with a spice cake mix.
- If you prefer a less sweet dessert, reduce the caramel sauce slightly or omit it.
- Ensure even distribution of melted butter to get a perfect crust.
- You can prepare this cake ahead and reheat gently before serving.
- Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Adding vanilla extract to the apple filling can deepen the flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
