Apple Dump Cake Recipe

I absolutely love this Apple Dump Cake Recipe because it’s like a shortcut to everyone’s favorite apple dessert without sacrificing any flavor. When I’m short on time but still want to impress, this cake is a lifesaver—three simple ingredients come together to create a warm, comforting treat that tastes like it took hours to bake. Honestly, it’s become my go-to for last-minute gatherings or cozy weekend indulgences.

You’ll find that this Apple Dump Cake Recipe works perfectly when you’re craving something sweet and homey but don’t want to fuss over measuring or mixing endless ingredients. What I adore about it is how the spice cake mix perfectly complements the apple pie filling, and the butter on top turns everything golden and crispy. Try it once, and trust me, it’ll be on your regular rotation too.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Apple Dump Cake Recipe is in its simplicity. Each ingredient works in harmony to create a dessert that’s comforting and just sweet enough. When shopping, look for good-quality canned apple pie filling and a spice cake mix with all the warm flavors you love.

• Apple Pie Filling: Using canned filling saves tons of time and keeps the apples juicy and sweet with spices already mixed in.
• Spice Cake Mix: This adds flavorful warmth like cinnamon and nutmeg, which pairs perfectly with the apple filling.
• Butter: Slicing it and dotting on top creates that golden, crispy crust you’re going to adore.

Variations

I love how versatile the Apple Dump Cake Recipe is—you can easily switch things up to suit your taste or dietary needs. Over time, I’ve tried some tweaks that made this cake even more special, and I encourage you to play around, too.

• Using Fresh Apples: I once swapped the canned filling for fresh sliced apples tossed with cinnamon and a bit of sugar—sleek and fresh, just bake a little longer.
• Gluten-Free Option: A gluten-free spice cake mix works great here without losing flavor or texture.
• Adding Nuts: My family loves a sprinkle of chopped walnuts or pecans on top just before baking for extra crunch.
• Spice Boost: If you like your desserts more aromatic, adding extra cinnamon or a touch of ginger to the filling can give it that homemade punch.

How to Make Apple Dump Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly so your cake won’t stick, and you get that beautiful buttery crust all around. I like using softened butter or even cooking spray—either works as long as the edges don’t burn.

Step 2: Layer the Apple Pie Filling

Pour both cans of apple pie filling evenly into your prepared pan. The juicy apples are the star here, and you want to spread them out so every bite has that tender fruit and syrupy sweetness. Don’t stir or mix—just smooth it with a spatula if needed.

Step 3: Sprinkle the Spice Cake Mix

Next, sprinkle the dry spice cake mix evenly over the apple filling. I discovered that covering the apples thoroughly like a blanket helps the cake bake into a perfect balance of soft and crumbly. No need to mix—this dump cake is all about layering.

Step 4: Top with Butter Slices

Slice the chilled butter into thin slices and scatter them evenly over the top of the cake mix. This helps create that irresistible golden crust once baked. Don’t skip this step! Butter here leads to crispy edges and gooey pockets inside.

Step 5: Bake and Enjoy

Bake at 350°F for about 60 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. When I first tried this, I kept checking around the 50-minute mark to avoid over-baking, and it really paid off—this cake should be moist, not dry. Let it cool slightly before serving to avoid burnt tongues!

How to Serve Apple Dump Cake Recipe

Garnishes

I love serving this Apple Dump Cake Recipe warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream—classic and dreamy. Sometimes, I add a dollop of fresh whipped cream or even a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top for that extra touch. These simple garnishes really elevate the cozy vibe.

Side Dishes

Pair it with a cup of hot coffee or chai tea in the fall, or alongside a sharp cheddar cheese slice for a surprising sweet-savory combo that my family goes crazy for. This cake stands out on its own but also complements cozy drinks and cheeses beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like to serve the Apple Dump Cake Recipe in small mason jars topped with ice cream and a cinnamon stick—it’s a cute, rustic presentation that always wows guests. Another idea is layering with caramel drizzle for a festive touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. I usually cover the dish tightly with foil after it cools or transfer slices to a container to maintain moisture and prevent the top from drying out.

Freezing

I’ve frozen individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil—makes for a quick dessert on a busy day. When thawed overnight in the fridge, the cake retains its texture remarkably well.

Reheating

Reheat slices in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds or pop them in a warm oven at 325°F for 10-15 minutes to restore that crispy top and melty butter goodness. Serving warm preserves the comforting flavors perfectly.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Apple Dump Cake Recipe has become one of my absolute favorites because it’s effortless yet so comforting. I’m pretty sure once you try it, you’ll find yourself reaching for it time and again whenever you want that perfect, cozy apple dessert without a lot of fuss. Give it a whirl—you might just be surprised how quickly this simple, tasty treat becomes a classic in your kitchen too.

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