Apple Dump Cake

There’s something undeniably comforting about warm apples, soft caramel, and a buttery golden topping.

This caramel apple dump cake brings together those cozy, nostalgic flavors with almost no effort at all.

It’s the kind of dessert you can throw together quickly but still feels impressively indulgent.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

 

The apple pie filling creates a soft, bubbly base packed with warm spice.

Caramel pieces melt into the apples for rich, gooey pockets of sweetness.

Dry cake mix and butter form a crisp, buttery crust without any mixing required.

It’s quick to assemble and perfect for holidays, gatherings, or last-minute cravings.

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

 

Apple pie filling forms the juicy, flavorful base with no prep required.

Allspice and cinnamon deepen the warmth and bring out the apple flavor.

Soft caramels melt beautifully and create a gooey, decadent layer.

Dry yellow cake mix gives you a golden, crisp topping with minimal effort.

Salted butter adds richness and helps the cake brown evenly.

Pro Tips Before You Start

 

Cut the caramels into smaller pieces so they melt more consistently.

Make sure the butter pieces are evenly spaced to avoid dry patches on top.

Rotate the pan halfway through baking for even browning.

Let the cake rest a few minutes before serving to allow the caramel to settle.

How to Make Caramel Apple Dump Cake

 

Step 1 – Prep the dish

Preheat the oven to 350°F (176°C). Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.

Step 2 – Build the apple layer

Add both cans of apple pie filling to the dish.

Sprinkle with allspice and cinnamon, then stir to combine.

Step 3 – Add the caramel pieces

Cut the caramels in half and scatter them evenly over the apples.

Step 4 – Add the cake topping

Sprinkle the dry cake mix over the caramel-apple layer. Smooth gently.

Step 5 – Add the butter

Place the butter squares evenly over the entire surface.

Step 6 – Bake until golden

Bake uncovered for 45 minutes, rotating the dish halfway through.

The cake is done when the edges bubble and the top turns golden brown.

What to Serve Them With

 

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic pairing.

Try it with whipped cream for a lighter finish.

Enjoy it plain for a simple, comforting treat.

Variations / Substitutions

 

Use spice cake mix instead of yellow cake for a deeper fall flavor.

Add chopped pecans for extra crunch.

Swap apple pie filling for cherry or peach for a fun twist.

Storage & Leftovers

 

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Reheat in the microwave or oven until warm.

FAQs

 

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it and bake just before serving or reheat later.

How should I store leftovers?
Keep them chilled in an airtight container.

Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, freeze portions and reheat in the oven for best texture.

Can I substitute some of the ingredients?
You can change the cake mix flavor or use different caramels.

How long does this recipe take to make?
It needs only a few minutes of prep and 45 minutes of baking.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely—kids love the warm apples and caramel.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Use dairy-free butter and check your cake mix for compatibility.

What should I serve it with?
Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream pairs perfectly.

Do I need special equipment?
Just a 9×13-inch dish and basic kitchen tools.

How do I know when it’s perfectly cooked?
Look for a golden top and bubbling edges.

Final Thoughts

 

This caramel apple dump cake is the perfect mix of cozy flavors and effortless preparation.

Warm apples, melting caramel, and a buttery golden topping make it a dessert everyone will love.

It’s bound to become a go-to for busy days and celebrations alike.