When it comes to fuss-free desserts that still pack a punch of flavor and nostalgia, few recipes shine brighter than this Apple Dump Cake. This simple yet scrumptious dessert brings the warmth of baked apples and cake together in a single baking dish, delivering layers of tender fruit nestled beneath a rich, buttery crust. With every forkful, you’ll discover the juicy sweetness of apple pie filling mingling with a delicate yellow cake topping that’s crisp at the edges and melt-away soft inside. Steam rises as you slice into the golden surface, carrying whispers of cinnamon spice that beckon everyone to gather around the table. Whether you’re hosting a cozy family dinner or just craving a comfy sweet fix, this dessert feels like a homemade hug in every mouthful.
Beyond its comforting taste, this Apple Dump Cake is perfect for bakers at any skill level. As a beginner-friendly dessert, it requires only a handful of pantry staples—apple pie filling, ground cinnamon, cake mix, butter, and a sprinkle of pecans—and comes together in under 10 minutes of prep. With just 50 minutes in the oven and a brief 10-minute rest, you’ll have a warm, bubbly dessert that serves up to a dozen people, with about 350 calories per serving. Feel free to amp up the spice with a pinch of nutmeg, or swap in peach or cherry filling for a fruity twist. Grab your mixing bowl and dive into the cozy world of Apple Dump Cake—no fancy equipment required, just pure, unpretentious deliciousness.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN APPLE DUMP CAKE
Before we dive into the step-by-step, let’s take a quick look at the magic-makers behind this cozy dessert. Each component plays its own role in creating that perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and buttery goodness.
- Apple pie filling
Lusciously sweet and tender, these canned apple slices form the fruity backbone of the recipe. With their soft texture and caramel-like flavor, they provide juicy pockets of warmth in every bite.
- Ground cinnamon
A gentle shake of this warming spice elevates the apple filling, adding depth and a hint of autumnal comfort. It infuses the fruit with aromatic notes that pair perfectly with butter and cake.
- Yellow cake mix
Acting as an easy crumble topping, the dry cake mix soaks up melted butter to form a crisp, golden crust. Its familiar vanilla flavor ties the apples and spices together without any fuss.
- Unsalted butter
Melted and drizzled over the cake mix, the butter transforms the dry crumbs into a rich, tender crust. Choosing unsalted lets you control the overall sweetness and richness.
- Chopped pecans (optional)
For a delightful crunch, sprinkle these nutty morsels on top. They add texture contrast and a toasty flavor that complements the soft apples and cakey topping.
HOW TO MAKE APPLE DUMP CAKE
Let’s walk through the easiest dessert you’ll ever bake. In just a few simple steps, you’ll layer flavor and texture to create a crowd-pleasing treat that practically makes itself. Follow along as we transform pantry favorites into a warm, bubbly masterpiece.
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Doing this first ensures an even bake and allows the edges of your cake to crisp up beautifully as soon as it goes in.
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a thin film of unsalted butter or use non-stick cooking spray. This helps the cake lift out smoothly and prevents any sticky surprises later.
3. Open the cans of apple pie filling and pour them evenly into the prepared dish, spreading them out so that every slice will have juicy fruit.
4. Sprinkle the ground cinnamon over the apple filling, making sure it’s evenly distributed. This ensures every bite gets that hint of warmth and spice.
5. Take the yellow cake mix and spread it in an even layer on top of the apples, covering all of the fruit but not pressing down—let it stay loose so it bakes into a crisp topping.
6. Drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix. Move slowly and deliberately so that as much of the powder as possible moistens and turns golden when baked.
7. If you’re using pecans, sprinkle the chopped pecans over the top now for added crunch and flavor.
8. Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly around the edges.
9. Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool for about 10 minutes. This brief rest helps the filling set just enough for clean slices and perfect spoonfuls.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR APPLE DUMP CAKE
There’s something magical about the moment when your Apple Dump Cake comes out of the oven: the top is crackling with golden crumbs, steam is lazily curling from the edges, and the sweet-scented fragrance fills the kitchen. Serving this dessert is just as much fun as baking it, and it’s a wonderful opportunity to put a personal spin on each plate. Whether you’re looking to elevate the experience with creamy, sweet accompaniments or add a dash of sophistication with unexpected garnishes, there are so many ways to make every serving special. Dish it out in rustic bowls for a homey vibe or on elegant dessert plates for a dinner party—it’s a versatile canvas for your favorite toppings and pairings.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting into the cake. The contrast between hot, tender crumble and cool, creamy ice cream elevates each bite into a dreamy, comforting union.
- Top each portion with a dollop of freshly whipped whipped cream and a light dusting of cinnamon sugar. This adds a fluffy, sweet layer that balances the fruit and crumb.
- Drizzle with homemade caramel sauce or warmed store-bought caramel for an indulgent, gooey finish. A thin ribbon of caramel turns every slice into a sticky-sweet delight.
- Garnish with extra toasted pecans or a handful of chopped walnuts for crunch. Toast them for a few minutes in a dry skillet to bring out their nutty aroma before sprinkling on top.
HOW TO STORE APPLE DUMP CAKE
Knowing how to store your Apple Dump Cake properly ensures you’ll enjoy every last bite without sacrificing flavor or texture. Whether you have generous leftovers or you’re prepping dessert in advance, a few simple steps will help preserve that fresh-baked charm. This section covers best practices—from room-temperature storage for same-day enjoyment to freezing methods that keep your cake at its peak weeks later. By choosing the right container, covering it securely, and controlling moisture, you’ll maintain the perfect balance of a crisp top and tender fruit filling for days to come.
- Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Make sure the cake has cooled completely before sealing to prevent sogginess from trapped steam.
- Refrigerate in a covered baking dish or container for up to 5 days. Loosely place parchment or plastic wrap over the surface to protect the topping’s crunch while keeping the filling moist.
- Freeze in individual portions by wrapping slices tightly in plastic wrap, then tucking them into a freezer-safe zip-top bag. Freeze for up to 3 months, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
- Reheat slices in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 10–12 minutes, or microwave single servings for 20–30 seconds to restore warmth and bring back that just-baked feeling.
CONCLUSION
Thank you for joining me on this cozy baking adventure with Apple Dump Cake! We explored every delicious detail—from the luscious apple pie filling and warming cinnamon to the buttery, golden cake topping that makes this dessert stand out. Along the way, you discovered how easy it is to whip up a crowd-pleasing treat in just 10 minutes of prep and a single baking dish. We covered essential tips for layering flavors, achieving that perfect crispiness on top, and offering variations with pecans or a pinch of nutmeg. Plus, you’ve got serving suggestions to wow your guests and storage methods that keep every piece tasting fresh, whether you enjoy it today or pull it from the freezer next month. Feel free to print this article or save it as a trusty reference for your next family gathering, potluck, or cozy night by the fire.
Below, you’ll find a handy FAQ section to answer any lingering questions you might have, and I’d love to hear how your Apple Dump Cake turns out. If you give this recipe a try, please leave your comments, questions, or feedback so we can swap stories and tips—did you add a special twist, or discover a secret trick for the crispiest topping? Your baking adventures inspire me, and I’m here to help with any guidance you need. Happy baking, and here’s to many sweet moments around your table!
Apple Dump Cake
Description
This Apple Dump Cake combines luscious apple pie filling with a buttery cake topping for a dessert that's both easy to make and deliciously comforting. Perfect for any gathering!
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with unsalted butter or non-stick cooking spray.
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Open the cans of apple pie filling and pour them evenly into the prepared baking dish.
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Sprinkle the ground cinnamon over the apple pie filling, ensuring it's evenly distributed.
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Take the yellow cake mix and spread it evenly over the apple mixture, ensuring it covers all of the fruit.
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Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the cake mix. Make sure as much of the powder is moistened with butter as possible.
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If using pecans, sprinkle them evenly over the top.
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Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
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Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool for about 10 minutes before serving.
Note
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an indulgent dessert.
- For added spice, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg along with the cinnamon.
- You can substitute the apple pie filling with your preferred canned fruits like cherries or peaches for a variation.
- This recipe is perfect for bringing to gatherings as it’s simple to make and serves a crowd.
