Simple Apple Dump Cake Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as easy as it is delicious, then you’ve come to the right place. I absolutely love this Simple Apple Dump Cake Recipe because it takes just a few ingredients and minimal effort to create a warm, comforting dessert that feels homemade but couldn’t be simpler. You’ll find that the tender apple filling paired with that buttery, golden cake topping is pure magic—perfect for any night of the week or last-minute company!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Simple Apple Dump Cake Recipe is all about simplicity with flavors that complement each other perfectly. Each ingredient plays a role in creating that classic combination of tender fruit and a rich, buttery crumb that feels like a warm hug from your oven.

• Apple Pie Filling: Canned is your friend here—it’s already perfectly spiced and soft, saving you prep time and effort.
• Yellow Cake Mix: Using a box mix adds that fluffy, sweet cake topping effortlessly—no measuring flour or sugar needed.
• Butter: Slicing the butter very thin and spacing it evenly is the trick to getting that perfectly golden, crispy crust on top.

Variations

One of the best things about this Simple Apple Dump Cake Recipe is how easy it is to customize. I love to tweak it depending on what I have on hand or the season, so feel free to make it your own!

• Add Cinnamon and Nutmeg: For extra warmth, I sprinkle a little cinnamon and nutmeg over the apple filling before adding the cake mix—game changer in cozy vibes.
• Mixed Fruit: Sometimes I swap half of the apple filling with canned peach or cherry pie filling to mix things up. My family actually loves this fruity twist.
• Gluten-Free Version: Try a gluten-free yellow cake mix if you want to make this recipe friendly for gluten sensitivities, and it’ll still be just as satisfying.
• Nut Toppings: Chopped pecans or walnuts sprinkled on top before baking add a delightful crunch that I can’t get enough of.

How to Make Simple Apple Dump Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish and Apples

First things first: preheat your oven to 350°F and generously spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray—this keeps everything from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Then, pour both cans of that sweet, spiced apple pie filling evenly across the bottom of the dish. I usually give the cans a good shake before opening to keep the filling nice and even.

Step 2: Layer the Cake Mix

Next up, sprinkle the entire box of yellow cake mix evenly over the top of your apple filling. Here’s a little trick I learned: press the cake mix down gently and evenly—we want it compacted just enough to create a cohesive topping but not smooshed flat. This helps create that irresistible crunchy crust after baking.

Step 3: Butter Makes It Better

Now for the magic touch—slice your butter into about 24 thin pieces. Arrange these butter slices evenly over the cake mix to ensure every bite has a buttery, golden crust. No special technique, just try to cover the surface so that the butter melts thoroughly while baking.

Step 4: Bake and Enjoy

Pop your dish in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. You’re looking for a deep golden-brown, bubbly top. That buttery crust should be crispy and the apples tender and heated through. Once it’s done, give it about 5-10 minutes to cool and set—this makes scooping it out a lot easier. Then, dig in!

How to Serve Simple Apple Dump Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Honestly, I like to keep it classic with a big scoop of vanilla ice cream melting on top—that contrast of warm and cold is irresistible. Sometimes, I sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar or chopped toasted pecans for a bit of extra crunch and sparkle.

Side Dishes

This apple dump cake pairs beautifully with a simple cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk. For a heartier dessert course, I like to serve it alongside whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce—trust me, it elevates it to next-level comfort food.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday dinners or special occasions, I’ve served this cake in individual ramekins for a personal touch. You can even add a little dollop of crème fraîche with a sprinkle of toasted cinnamon sugar to make guests feel extra special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), cover the pan tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days. The cake tastes great cold or gently reheated.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this dump cake a few times when I made extra, and it stays flavorful and moist. Make sure to cool completely, then freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture.

Reheating

To reheat, I pop individual servings in the microwave for about 30 seconds or warm a larger portion in a 325°F oven covered with foil for 15-20 minutes. This helps keep the topping crisp and the filling bubbling nicely.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Simple Apple Dump Cake Recipe has been my go-to comfort dessert for years, especially on nights when I want something sweet but don’t want to fuss in the kitchen. It’s one of those recipes that feels like an invitation to slow down, grab a spoon, and savor every bite. I hope you’ll give it a try and find as much joy in its ease and warmth as I do. Trust me, this cake never fails to bring smiles around the table!

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