Sometimes you need a dessert that barely requires any effort but still impresses everyone. I threw together my first apple dump cake on Thanksgiving morning when I realized I forgot to make dessert and had zero time. My mom kept asking what smelled so good, and when I told her it was just three ingredients, she didn't believe me. This easy apple dessert is exactly what it sounds like: you dump everything in a pan and bake.
The apple pie filling gets bubbly and caramelized, the cake mix turns into a buttery, crispy topping, and the whole thing tastes like fall in a dish. Perfect for busy holidays or when you want something warm and comforting without the fuss.
Why You'll Love This Apple Dump Cake
This apple dump cake is the ultimate lazy dessert, and I mean that in the best way. You don't need a mixer, you don't need to measure carefully, and you definitely don't need any special skills. My sister makes this with her kids because it's so foolproof. The caramel apple flavor is incredible, especially when you serve it warm with vanilla ice cream.
It's great for Thanksgiving, fall gatherings, or just a random Tuesday when you want something sweet. You can prep it in under 10 minutes, and it bakes while you do literally anything else. Plus, leftovers taste amazing straight from the fridge.
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What You'll Need
This is truly a three-ingredient recipe, but you can add a few extras if you want to get fancy.
Core Ingredients
- 2 cans (21 oz each) apple pie filling
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional but recommended)
- ½ cup caramel sauce for drizzling (optional)
Optional Add-Ins
Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch, add a handful of raisins or dried cranberries, or sprinkle some oats on top for an apple crisp vibe. A pinch of nutmeg or ginger adds extra warmth.
Recipe details for apple dump cake? Just scroll to the card.
How to Make Apple Dump Cake
Prep the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This keeps everything from sticking and makes cleanup way easier.
Layer the Filling
Open both cans of apple pie filling and spread them evenly across the bottom of the dish. If you want extra caramel flavor, drizzle half the caramel sauce over the apples now.
Add the Cake Mix
Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the apple filling. Don't stir it, don't mix it, just dump it on top. Use your hands or a spoon to spread it out so it covers everything evenly. Sprinkle the cinnamon over the cake mix.
Pour the Butter
Drizzle the melted butter over the entire surface of the cake mix. Try to cover as much as you can. The butter helps the cake mix turn golden and crispy as it bakes. My husband always asks if he can use more butter, and honestly, you probably could.
Can you make apple dump cake in a crockpot?
Yes. Layer everything the same way in a slow cooker and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours or high for 1.5 to 2 hours. The texture is a bit softer than oven-baked, but it still tastes great.
Bake Until Golden
Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. You'll know it's done when the whole kitchen smells like cinnamon apples and the top looks crispy.
Cool and Serve
Let the dump cake cool for about 10 minutes before serving. It's best served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and an extra drizzle of caramel sauce. My daughter always fights for the corner pieces because they're extra crispy.
Aliana's Expert Tip
The secret to a perfect apple dump cake is not mixing anything.
Seriously, just dump and layer.
If you stir it, you'll end up with a weird texture instead of that crispy, buttery topping.
Also, use real butter, not margarine.
The flavor difference is huge.
And don't skip the cinnamon, it makes the whole thing taste more homemade.
My mom tried making this without cinnamon once and said it was fine but not special. Lesson learned.
Swaps and Variations
No apple pie filling? Use cherry, peach, or blueberry pie filling instead. Want a caramel apple dump cake? Drizzle caramel sauce between the apple layer and cake mix, then again on top before serving. You can also use spice cake mix instead of yellow cake mix for extra warmth. For an apple crisp vibe, mix the cake mix with oats and brown sugar before sprinkling it on top. Some people like adding a can of lemon-lime soda instead of butter for a lighter version, but I've never tried it.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 30 to 45 seconds, or warm the whole dish in the oven at 300°F for 15 minutes. You can freeze this too, just wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. My sister swears leftovers taste even better the next day because the flavors have time to blend.
What to Serve With Apple Dump Cake
This dump cake is perfect on its own, but it's even better with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce. A hot cup of coffee or apple cider on the side makes it feel extra cozy. For Thanksgiving, serve it alongside pumpkin pie for people who want options.
FAQs About Apple Dump Cake
Can I use fresh apples instead of pie filling?
You can, but you'll need to peel, slice, and cook the apples with sugar and cinnamon first. Pie filling is easier and tastes just as good.
Why is my cake mix not getting crispy?
You probably didn't use enough butter, or you stirred the layers instead of leaving them separate. Make sure the butter covers the entire top.
What other cake mixes work?
Yellow cake mix is classic, but white, spice, or butter pecan cake mix all work great. Avoid chocolate cake mix unless you're going for a very specific flavor combo.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can assemble it up to 24 hours in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. Bake it fresh when you're ready to serve.
More Recipes You'll Love
If you're into easy fall Desserts, you'll want to try my fruit dump cake and pumpkin dump cake. Both are just as simple and delicious. My apple cobbler with cake mix is another lazy favorite, perfect for potlucks. For more Thanksgiving ideas, check out my pecan pie bars and easy apple desserts collection.
Put your own flair on this dish? Tag me on Pinterest @AlianaRecipes, your creativity could inspire someone else!
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Pairing
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