Caramel Apple Dump Cake

Picture this: warm, cinnamon-spiced apples bubbling beneath a golden, buttery cake topping, finished with ribbons of sticky caramel melting into every crevice. That’s Caramel Apple Dump Cake—a rustic dessert that tastes like apple pie and cobbler had a delicious love child. It’s cozy, indulgent, and so simple you’ll wonder why you haven’t been making it for years. Trust me, once you try it, this one will become a regular on your fall and holiday dessert table.

Behind the Recipe

This dessert has a special place in my heart. I first made it on a crisp October evening when I wanted something warm and sweet without spending hours in the kitchen. Armed with a can of apple pie filling, a boxed cake mix, and a jar of caramel, I whipped up this cake in minutes. The aroma that filled the kitchen—apples, caramel, and butter mingling together—was pure comfort. By the time it came out of the oven, the whole family was gathered around with spoons in hand. It became an instant classic in our home.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

The term “dump cake” might not sound glamorous, but its history is rooted in practicality. Popularized in mid-20th-century America, dump cakes became famous for their ease—you simply “dump” the ingredients into a pan and bake. Caramel apple variations are a modern twist, combining the beloved flavors of apple pie with the gooey sweetness of caramel. It’s the kind of dessert that feels homemade and special, even though it takes just minutes to assemble.

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Why You’ll Love Caramel Apple Dump Cake

Let’s be honest—this is one of those desserts that ticks every box. Here’s why you’ll adore it:

Versatile: Serve it warm, chilled, or with ice cream on top.
Budget-Friendly: Uses inexpensive pantry staples.
Quick and Easy: Five minutes of prep, then let the oven do the rest.
Customizable: Add nuts, spices, or even chocolate chips for variety.
Crowd-Pleasing: Sweet, gooey, and comforting—it’s impossible to resist.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble ahead and bake when needed.
Great for Leftovers: Reheats beautifully and pairs perfectly with coffee.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

To get the best flavor and texture, keep these tips in mind:

• Use good-quality apple pie filling for the richest taste.
• Pour caramel evenly over the apples so every bite has sweetness.
• Slice cold butter into thin pieces—it melts more evenly across the cake mix.
• Bake until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling at the edges.
• Let it cool slightly before serving so the caramel sets into gooey perfection.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

This recipe doesn’t demand much—just a few basics:

9×13-inch Baking Dish: The perfect size for layering.
Mixing Spoon or Spatula: For spreading caramel and filling evenly.
Sharp Knife: To slice the butter thinly.
Oven Mitts: Essential for handling the hot dish.

Ingredients in Caramel Apple Dump Cake

This short ingredient list is where the magic lies—simple pantry items transform into a decadent dessert.

1. Apple Pie Filling: 2 cans (21 oz each) – Sweet and spiced apples as the base.
2. Caramel Sauce: ½ cup (120 ml) – Adds gooey richness throughout.
3. Yellow Cake Mix: 1 box (15.25 oz) – The shortcut to a golden, buttery topping.
4. Unsalted Butter: ½ cup (1 stick, 115 g), cold and sliced – Ensures a crisp, golden top.
5. Ground Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon – Deepens the warm flavor.
6. Optional Garnish: Vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or extra caramel drizzle.

Ingredient Substitutions

Make it your own with these easy swaps:

Apple Pie Filling: Use fresh apple slices tossed with sugar and cinnamon.
Caramel Sauce: Try butterscotch sauce for a twist.
Yellow Cake Mix: White or spice cake mix also work beautifully.
Butter: Margarine or plant-based butter for a dairy-free option.

Ingredient Spotlight

Apple Pie Filling: The heart of this dessert, it brings sweetness, spice, and juicy texture without the fuss of peeling and chopping apples.

Caramel Sauce: Adds that indulgent gooey layer, binding the apples and cake into something magical.

Instructions for Making Caramel Apple Dump Cake

This is where the magic happens—and it couldn’t be easier.

1. Preheat Your Equipment:
   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Combine Ingredients:
   Spread apple pie filling evenly across the bottom of the dish. Drizzle caramel sauce over the apples and sprinkle with cinnamon.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
   Pour the dry cake mix evenly over the apple-caramel layer, covering it completely.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   Arrange thin slices of cold butter evenly on top of the cake mix.
5. Cook to Perfection:
   Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and filling bubbles at the edges.
6. Finishing Touches:
   Let the cake cool for 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Spoon into bowls and serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, and extra caramel if desired.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The magic of this dessert lies in the contrast. The top bakes into a buttery, slightly crisp crust, while underneath, gooey caramel-coated apples bubble into syrupy perfection. Each spoonful gives you warm spice, tender fruit, and sweet caramel against the softness of cake. It’s rustic and indulgent all at once.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For best results, keep these tips in mind:

• Use cold butter, not melted—it creates that golden topping.
• Add chopped pecans or walnuts on top for crunch.
• Drizzle extra caramel just before serving for presentation.
• Store leftovers in the fridge and reheat in the oven for crispness.

What to Avoid

Avoid these common mistakes to keep your cake irresistible:

• Using too little butter—the topping will turn out dry.
• Stirring the layers—you want them stacked, not mixed.
• Overbaking—the caramel can harden instead of staying gooey.
• Serving straight from the oven—it needs a few minutes to set.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 12
Calories per serving: 310
Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can assemble this dessert a few hours in advance and bake when ready. Leftovers store in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in a 300°F (150°C) oven until warm. This dessert also freezes well—cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months.

How to Serve Caramel Apple Dump Cake

Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate comfort dessert. A dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of salted caramel sauce takes it to the next level. Pair with hot cider, coffee, or even a spiced chai latte.

Creative Leftover Transformations

If you have leftovers, here are some fun ways to repurpose them:

• Layer with yogurt and granola for an apple-caramel parfait.
• Spoon over pancakes or waffles for a decadent breakfast.
• Reheat and use as a topping for cheesecake.
• Blend into a milkshake for an indulgent fall drink.

Additional Tips

A few extra tricks to make your dump cake stand out:

• Sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top before baking for added crunch.
• Add diced fresh apples to the filling for extra texture.
• Use spice cake mix instead of yellow for a richer flavor.

Make It a Showstopper

Presentation is simple yet striking. Serve in clear glass bowls to show off the gooey layers, drizzle with caramel, and garnish with a cinnamon stick or a few toasted nuts for flair. It looks as good as it tastes.

Variations to Try

Put your own spin on this cozy dessert:

• Salted Caramel Apple: Sprinkle sea salt over caramel before baking.
• Cranberry Apple: Add dried cranberries for a tart bite.
• Nutty Crunch: Top with pecans or walnuts for texture.
• Apple Cinnamon Roll: Use cinnamon roll cake mix for extra spice.
• Apple Berry: Mix in raspberries or blueberries for fruity contrast.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I use fresh apples instead of canned filling?

Yes, just slice apples thinly and toss with sugar, cinnamon, and a little cornstarch.

Q2: Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, cook on high for 2 hours or low for 4 hours.

Q3: Can I use white cake mix instead of yellow?

Absolutely, though yellow cake mix gives a richer flavor.

Q4: Can I prepare it ahead?

Yes, assemble up to 6 hours ahead and refrigerate until baking.

Q5: Can I freeze Caramel Apple Dump Cake?

Yes, freeze after baking. Thaw and reheat before serving.

Q6: What butter works best?

Unsalted butter gives you control, but salted butter adds a nice balance.

Q7: How do I prevent dry topping?

Make sure the butter slices fully cover the cake mix.

Q8: Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, use plant-based butter and dairy-free caramel.

Q9: Is it supposed to be gooey?

Yes, the bottom should be soft and syrupy from the caramel and apples.

Q10: What’s the best way to serve leftovers?

Warm in the oven and top with fresh ice cream or cream.

Conclusion

Caramel Apple Dump Cake is proof that simple can be sensational. With just a handful of ingredients and almost no effort, you get a warm, gooey dessert that tastes like it took hours. Whether for a cozy family night, a holiday dinner, or a last-minute dessert craving, this cake delivers comfort and indulgence every time. Let me tell you, it’s worth every bite.

Watch How To Make Caramel Apple Dump Cake