Caramel Apple Dump Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Caramel Apple Dump Cake is the ultimate easy dessert that brings together the comforting flavors of baked apples, gooey caramel, and buttery cake. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, this dessert delivers a warm, cozy treat perfect for fall gatherings, weeknight cravings, or holiday potlucks. It’s sweet, simple, and irresistibly delicious.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

canned apple pie filling
caramel sauce
yellow cake mix
unsalted butter
cinnamon (optional for extra warmth)
chopped pecans or walnuts (optional for crunch)

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Spread the apple pie filling evenly in the bottom of the dish.

Drizzle a generous layer of caramel sauce over the apples.

Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the caramel apple layer.

Distribute thin slices or melted butter evenly over the entire surface of the cake mix, covering as much as possible.

If using, sprinkle cinnamon and chopped nuts on top.

Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Let the dump cake cool slightly before serving. Serve warm, optionally with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 12 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 45-50 minutes
Cooling time: 10-15 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Variations

Use spice cake mix instead of yellow for a deeper fall flavor.
Add diced fresh apples for added texture.
Try salted caramel for a sweet-salty twist.
Layer thinly sliced pears in with the apples for a fruity blend.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, microwave individual servings for 30-45 seconds or warm in a 300°F oven for 10-15 minutes.
Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

What is a dump cake?

A dump cake is a dessert where all ingredients are layered in a pan without mixing, then baked until golden and bubbly.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake. Best enjoyed warm after baking.

Can I use homemade apple pie filling?

Absolutely! Homemade filling will add an extra layer of flavor and texture.

What’s the best caramel to use?

Use your favorite store-bought caramel sauce or make a simple homemade version. Thicker sauces work best.

Do I need to mix the ingredients?

Nope! That’s the beauty of a dump cake—just layer and bake.

Why is my cake mix still powdery?

Make sure the butter is evenly distributed to cover the cake mix, or drizzle a bit of extra melted butter if needed.

Can I make it in a slow cooker?

Yes, cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 2 hours, until golden and cooked through.

Conclusion

Caramel Apple Dump Cake is a fuss-free dessert that’s loaded with cozy flavors and satisfying texture. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just craving something sweet, this recipe hits the spot every time. Warm, gooey, and delicious—it’s a must-try for apple and caramel lovers alike.

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