Easy Apple Dump Cake Recipe 

This Apple Dump Cake is the ultimate easy dessert — buttery, warm, and full of sweet apple flavor with minimal effort. You simply “dump” the ingredients into a pan, bake, and enjoy a perfectly golden, caramelized dessert that tastes like apple cobbler but takes half the time. It’s a crowd-pleaser that works for holidays, family dinners, or anytime you crave something warm and comforting.

What Is Apple Dump Cake?

Apple Dump Cake is a simple dessert made by layering canned apple pie filling, dry cake mix, and melted butter — no mixing bowls or fancy steps required. As it bakes, the butter soaks through the cake mix, creating a golden, crisp crust over gooey, spiced apples. It’s one of the easiest desserts to make, yet it delivers all the flavor of homemade apple pie.

Other Popular Dessert Recipes

• Apple Crisp
• Apple Cobbler
• Apple Crisp Without Oats
• Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

Reasons to Try Apple Dump Cake

• Effortless recipe – No mixing, no special tools, just layer and bake.
• Warm and comforting – Sweet apples with a buttery crumble topping.
• Perfect for beginners – Virtually foolproof dessert.
• Crowd favorite – Always a hit at gatherings and potlucks.
• Customizable – Add nuts, caramel, or spices for extra flavor.
• Make-ahead friendly – Easy to prep and reheat later.
• Smells amazing – Fills your kitchen with cozy fall aroma.

Ingredients Needed to Make Apple Dump Cake

• 2 cans (20 oz each) apple pie filling
• 1 box yellow cake mix (about 15.25 oz)
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
• ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
• Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream (for serving)

Equipment Needed

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Spatula or spoon
• Measuring spoons
• Oven
• Small bowl (for melting butter)

Instructions to Prepare Apple Dump Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Add the Apple Layer

Pour the apple pie filling into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly with a spatula so the apples cover the bottom in a smooth layer. Sprinkle cinnamon and nutmeg over the apples if you’d like a warm spice flavor.

Step 3: Add the Dry Cake Mix

Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the apples. Do not stir — the dry mix should sit on top of the filling. This helps form a crisp, golden crust as it bakes.

Step 4: Add Butter

Pour the melted butter evenly over the top of the cake mix. Make sure to cover as much of the surface as possible — this helps the topping bake evenly and prevents dry spots.

Step 5: Add Optional Toppings

For added texture and flavor, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts evenly across the top. They’ll toast beautifully while baking and add a slight crunch to each bite.

Step 6: Bake

Place the dish in the oven and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. The edges should be crisp, and the center slightly soft and gooey.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow the Apple Dump Cake to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for the perfect finishing touch.

What Goes Well With Apple Dump Cake

• Vanilla Ice Cream – Melts beautifully over the warm dessert.
• Whipped Cream – Light and fluffy contrast to the rich filling.
• Caramel Sauce – Adds an extra layer of indulgence.
• Cinnamon Dust – A simple finishing touch for extra aroma.
• Toasted Pecans – Enhances texture and nuttiness.
• Cup of Coffee – Perfect pairing for a cozy fall dessert.

Key Tips for Making Apple Dump Cake

• Don’t mix the layers – Keep the dry cake mix on top for that signature texture.
• Distribute butter evenly – Ensures even browning and prevents dry spots.
• Use real butter – Margarine doesn’t melt the same way and affects flavor.
• Enhance the filling – Add cinnamon or nutmeg for deeper warmth.
• Check for doneness – The top should be golden brown and crisp around the edges.
• Let it rest – Cooling helps the layers set before serving.
• Serve warm – The flavors and textures are best when freshly baked.

Creative Variations of Apple Dump Cake

• Caramel Apple Dump Cake – Drizzle caramel sauce over the apples before baking.
• Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake – Use cinnamon roll-flavored cake mix for extra spice.
• Apple Pecan Crunch – Mix pecans into both the filling and topping for double crunch.
• Maple Apple Dump Cake – Replace some butter with maple syrup for a cozy twist.
• Gluten-Free Version – Use a gluten-free cake mix for an allergy-friendly dessert.
• Apple Berry Dump Cake – Add 1 cup of blueberries or cranberries for tart contrast.
• Spiced Apple Dump Cake – Add a pinch of cloves and allspice for stronger fall flavor.

Storage Guidelines for Apple Dump Cake

• Refrigerate leftovers – Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freeze for later – Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months.
• Thaw before reheating – Let thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
• Avoid leaving out – Because of the fruit and butter, refrigerate after cooling.

Reheating Tips for Apple Dump Cake

• Oven method: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes until warm and crisp.
• Microwave method: Heat single portions for 30–45 seconds, but note the topping will soften slightly.
• Air fryer method: Reheat at 320°F (160°C) for 5–6 minutes to restore crispiness.

Nutritional Value (per serving)

• Calories: 340
• Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 32g
• Sodium: 310mg

FAQs

Can I make an apple dump cake with fresh apples?

Yes. Peel and slice 4–5 fresh apples, toss with ½ cup sugar and 1 tablespoon lemon juice, then use in place of canned apple pie filling.

Can I use white cake mix instead of yellow?

Absolutely. White, spice, or even butter-flavored cake mix works beautifully — each gives a slightly different flavor.

Why is my dump cake dry on top?

The topping can turn dry if butter isn’t distributed evenly. Pour the melted butter slowly over the cake mix, covering as much surface as possible.

Can I make apple dump cake ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble the ingredients, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Bake when ready to serve for the freshest flavor and texture.

Final Words

This Apple Dump Cake is the definition of simple comfort food — warm, buttery, and bursting with sweet apple flavor. It’s easy enough for beginners yet satisfying enough to impress a crowd. With just a few pantry staples and minimal cleanup, you’ll have a cozy dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.

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