Ready in: 1 hour · Serves: 12 · Technique: Baking · Storage: Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Quick Answer
This simple Apple Dump Cake combines apple pie filling, cake mix, and butter for a warm, comforting dessert.
As the crisp air of autumn settles in New York City, I find myself gravitating toward comforting desserts that evoke the spirit of the season. One of my favorite fall treats is the Apple Dump Cake. It's an incredibly easy yet irresistible dessert that wraps you in the warm flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and sweet, tender apples. Perfect for upcoming celebrations like Thanksgiving and Christmas, this cake feels like a cozy embrace-ideal for sharing with family and friends during this festive time.
A Cozy Holiday Treat
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Effortless preparation with just a few simple ingredients.
- A deliciously warm dessert perfect for autumn gatherings.
- Great for sharing with family and friends during the holidays.
- Combines the nostalgic flavors of cinnamon and tender apples.
- Can be enjoyed warm or as a breakfast treat with coffee.
Ingredients
This Apple Dump Cake comes together with just a handful of ingredients.
Apple Pie Filling
- 2 cans (21 ounces each) of apple pie filling
Cake Mix
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) of yellow cake mix
Spices and Butter
- 1-½ teaspoons of ground cinnamon
- 1 cup of unsalted butter (2 sticks), melted
Nuts (Optional)
- 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
How to Make Apple Dump Cake (Step-by-Step)
Making this delicious Apple Dump Cake is straightforward and rewarding.
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
Step 2: Layer the Apple Filling
Spread the apple pie filling evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. The delightful aroma of cinnamon-spiced apples will fill the kitchen almost immediately.
Step 3: Add the Cake Mix
Sprinkle the cake mix evenly over the apple filling. It may seem unconventional, but trust this process-the cake mix will absorb all those wonderful flavors.
Step 4: Spice it Up
Sprinkle the ground cinnamon over the cake mix. The way cinnamon enhances the dish is simply magical, adding depth and warmth.
Step 5: Drizzle with Butter
Generously drizzle the melted butter over the top, ensuring every bit gets some love. You'll soon catch the nutty scent of the butter melding with the spices.
Step 6: Add Nuts
If using, top with chopped nuts. This gives a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft cake and tender apples.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake for about 45-55 minutes or until the top is golden brown and slightly jiggly in the center. The aroma of baking apples will lure you back to the oven for a sneak peek.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Let it cool slightly before serving. Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a heavenly experience, especially with the warm cake.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Don't skimp on the filling or cake mix; their quality significantly impacts the final dish.
- Not Preheating the Oven: This can throw off the baking time and result in uneven cooking. Always preheat!
- Skipping the Cooling Step: Letting the cake set before serving helps meld the flavors and makes it easier to cut.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- For extra flavor, I like to add a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of vanilla extract to the apple filling.
- Serving the dump cake warm makes it even more delightful, especially in cozy autumn gatherings.
- This cake is also perfect for breakfast-why not? A slice with a cup of coffee is a wonderful way to start the day!
Variations
- Use different types of pie filling, like cherry or peach, for a unique twist.
- Try substituting the yellow cake mix with spice cake mix for added warmth.
- Experiment with different nuts, such as almonds or hazelnuts, for variation in crunch.
- Add raisins or dried cranberries for a chewiness that complements the apples.
How to Serve
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra indulgent treat.
- Top with a dollop of whipped cream for a light and fluffy finish.
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or powdered sugar for a decorative touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the cake several hours in advance and bake it just before serving for a warm dessert.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat slices in the microwave for a quick dessert fix.
- Freezing: This cake freezes well. Wrap tightly and store for up to 3 months.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
Throughout the multiple trials of making this Apple Dump Cake, I realized how the simplest recipes can evoke such profound comfort. The joy of sharing this treat during holiday gatherings is pure bliss, reminding me that food is indeed a connection to our loved ones.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 12 servings · Serving Size: 1 piece
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~300 calories · 3g protein · 45g carbs · 14g fat
Recipe by:
Cozy Apple Dump Cake for Fall
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Spread the apple pie filling evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle the cake mix evenly over the apple filling.
- Sprinkle the ground cinnamon over the cake mix.
- Generously drizzle the melted butter over the top.
- If using, top with chopped nuts.
- Bake for about 45-55 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
Notes
FAQs
What can I serve with Apple Dump Cake?
Apple Dump Cake pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra touch of sweetness.
Can I use fresh apples instead of canned apple pie filling?
Yes, you can use fresh apples, but you'll need to add sugar, cinnamon, and a bit of lemon juice to mimic the flavors of the pie filling. Simply peel and slice the apples and toss them with these ingredients before layering them in the baking dish.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can reheat slices in the microwave for a quick dessert fix.
