This Apple Pie Dump Cake is a cozy dessert that brings together sweet apples and a buttery cake layer. Just mix, pour, and bake for a treat that smells amazing!
It’s so easy that even kids can help out! I love serving it warm with a scoop of ice cream on top—because who can resist that creamy goodness? 🍏🍰
Ingredients & Substitutions
Apple Pie Filling: The canned apple pie filling is a major convenience in this recipe. If you prefer homemade, you can cook fresh apples with sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice for a more natural flavor. Use about 4 cups of diced apples.
Yellow Cake Mix: This is the base for your dump cake, but you can swap in a spice cake mix for added flavor. You can also use gluten-free cake mix if you’re looking for a gluten-free option!
Butter: Unsalted butter keeps things smooth, but you can substitute with melted coconut oil for a dairy-free option. Just be aware it may add a subtle coconut flavor.
Cinnamon & Nutmeg: These spices give the dish warmth and depth. If you don’t have nutmeg, you can increase the cinnamon or add apple pie spice instead. I love a good dose of cinnamon!
What’s the Best Way to Ensure Even Cooking?
Making sure your Apple Pie Dump Cake cooks evenly is key to a great texture. Start by spreading the apple filling in an even layer, followed by the dry cake mix. This way, each bite has just the right balance. Drizzling the butter carefully helps, too. Aim to cover as much of the mix as possible for that perfect golden topping.
- Use a light hand when spreading the cake mix; you want it to have some air to rise.
- Keep an eye on it during the last 10 minutes of baking – if it’s browning too fast, cover it with foil to prevent burning.
Apple Pie Dump Cake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cake:
- 2 cans (21 oz each) apple pie filling
- 1 box yellow cake mix (about 15.25 oz)
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- Vanilla ice cream, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 45 to 50 minutes to bake, making a total of about 1 hour. It’s a simple and quick dessert perfect for any gathering or a cozy night at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is warming up, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Apple Filling:
Pour both cans of apple pie filling into the prepared baking dish. Spread the filling out evenly to ensure every bite has that delicious apple flavor.
3. Add the Cake Mix:
Now comes the fun part! Sprinkle the entire dry yellow cake mix evenly over the layer of apples. Make sure to cover them well so they get that yummy cake topping.
4. Spice It Up:
In a small bowl, mix together the ground cinnamon and ground nutmeg, if you’re using it. Sprinkle this spice mixture evenly over the cake mix layer. This will add a lovely aroma and flavor to your dump cake!
5. Butter It Up:
Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top of the cake mix. Try to cover as much of the surface as possible. This will help the topping become golden and crispy.
6. Bake:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. Keep an eye out for the top to become golden brown and bubbly around the edges.
7. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the dump cake from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. It’s best enjoyed warm!
8. Top with Ice Cream:
For the ultimate treat, serve your warm Apple Pie Dump Cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. It melts beautifully into the warm cake, creating a delicious dessert!
Enjoy this delightful and comforting Apple Pie Dump Cake, perfect for any occasion! 🍏🍰
Can I Use Fresh Apples Instead of Canned Filling?
Absolutely! If you prefer to use fresh apples, peel, core, and slice about 4 cups of apples. Cook them with a bit of sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice until they’re tender before layering them in the baking dish.
What If I Don’t Have Yellow Cake Mix?
No problem! You can substitute with a spice cake mix for a different flavor profile. If you want to make it from scratch, use a basic homemade cake recipe with flour, sugar, baking powder, and some vanilla extract.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just pop it in the microwave, or warm it in the oven until heated through.
Can I Add Other Toppings?
Definitely! You can mix in nuts, like walnuts or pecans, or even add a sprinkle of oats for a crumbly topping. For an extra touch, a drizzle of caramel sauce just before serving takes it to the next level!
