This Apple Pie Dump Cake is a cozy dessert that’s super easy to make! Just mix apples, cake mix, and butter to create a warm, sweet treat with a crunchy topping.
It’s basically a hug in a dish for your taste buds! I love to serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream on top. Who can resist that combo? 🍏🍨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apple Pie Filling: You can use canned apple pie filling for convenience, but I love using fresh apples mixed with sugar and cinnamon for a homemade touch! Granny Smith apples work great for their tartness, while Honeycrisp add sweetness.
Yellow Cake Mix: This is a simple way to add texture and sweetness. If you want to switch it up, you could use spice cake mix or even white cake mix for a lighter flavor.
Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans add a nice crunch. If you have nut allergies, skip them entirely or use oats instead for a different texture.
Butter: Unsalted butter keeps the sweetness balanced. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use coconut oil or even a vegan butter substitute.
How Do You Ensure a Perfectly Baked Dump Cake?
Baking this cake is really easy, but to get that perfect texture, follow these steps closely:
- Preheat your oven thoroughly to ensure even cooking. This helps the butter melt evenly and soak into the cake mix.
- Don’t stir the layers! Sprinkling the dry cake mix on top of the apples creates that delicious, crumbly texture.
- Check for doneness after about 45 minutes. You want the top to be a golden brown and bubbly; if it’s still too soft, give it a few more minutes.
Let the cake sit for a few minutes after baking. This helps it set up a bit, making it easier to serve. Enjoy every slice with ice cream for the best experience!
How to Make Apple Pie Dump Cake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Cake:
- 2 (21 oz) cans apple pie filling
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix (dry mix)
- 1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans), optional
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
For Serving:
- Vanilla ice cream
- Caramel sauce (optional, for drizzling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Apple Pie Dump Cake takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 45-50 minutes of baking time. After it’s baked, you can let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Altogether, you’re looking at about 1 hour for this delicious dessert!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is important so that your cake cooks evenly and comes out perfectly golden.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and spray it with non-stick cooking spray. This will prevent the cake from sticking to the dish.
3. Add the Apple Filling:
Pour the apple pie filling evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. If you’re using fresh apples, make sure they are mixed with sugar and cinnamon for that classic flavor!
4. Add the Cake Mix:
Next, take the dry yellow cake mix and sprinkle it evenly over the apple filling. Do not stir! We want to keep the layers separate to create that delicious texture.
5. Add Nuts and Cinnamon:
If you’re using nuts, sprinkle them on top of the dry cake mix, along with the ground cinnamon. This adds an extra crunch and flavor!
6. Pour the Butter:
Now, drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top of everything. As it bakes, the butter will soak down into the cake mix and help create a crispy topping.
7. Bake the Cake:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and bubbly!
8. Cool and Serve:
Once taken out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top and drizzle with caramel sauce if you like a little extra sweetness.
Enjoy this delightful and easy Apple Pie Dump Cake! It’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in.
Can I Use Fresh Apples Instead of Canned Filling?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh apples, use about 4 cups of peeled and chopped apples mixed with ½ cup sugar and 1 tsp cinnamon to create a homemade filling. Just make sure to coat the apples well for flavor!
What Can I Substitute for Yellow Cake Mix?
You can use a spice cake mix for a deeper flavor, or even a gluten-free cake mix if you need a gluten-free option. Just keep the proportions the same, and you’ll still get a delicious result!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or cover and reheat in the oven until heated through.
Can I Make This Cake Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the layers and store them separately in the fridge, then assemble and bake just before serving to ensure it’s fresh and warm.