Easy Caramel Apple Dump Cake Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of an easy caramel apple dump cake wafting through your kitchen. This delectable dessert combines the rich flavors of apples and caramel in the simplest of ways, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. With minimal effort, you can create a mouthwatering dessert that will delight your family and friends.

One fall afternoon, my grandmother invited me over to bake together. It was during one of those visits that she shared this incredible recipe with me. Her kitchen always held the scent of warmth and homeliness. As she peeled apples, she told me how this cake was a staple for family gatherings, always quickly devoured and eagerly anticipated. The simplicity of the recipe allowed us to focus on storytelling and laughter, baking memories as sweet as the cake itself.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for busy bakers looking for a delicious dessert without the hassle. By using just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a dessert in no time. It’s a versatile recipe that can be dressed up for special occasions or served as a comforting weeknight treat. The combination of caramel and apples is a classic favorite, guaranteed to please any crowd with its irresistible flavors.

Ingredients Notes

To ensure your cake turns out perfectly every time, we recommend quality ingredients. Choose fresh, crisp apples such as Granny Smith for a nice balance of tartness and sweetness. If caramel sauce isn’t available, substitute with homemade caramel sauce or even dulce de leche for a richer flavor. A box of yellow cake mix forms the base, simplifying the process.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish. This ensures your cake doesn’t stick to the pan and bakes evenly.

Step 2

Spread the sliced apples evenly in the bottom of the baking dish. This creates a nice even layer for your cake’s foundation.

Step 3

Pour the caramel sauce over the apples, ensuring every slice is coated. This gives the cake its signature gooey center and infuses the dessert with caramel goodness.

Step 4

Sprinkle the yellow cake mix evenly over the top of the apples and caramel. Resist the temptation to stir; the layers are what create the unique texture.

Step 5

Dot the top with butter slices, which will melt and help form a crispy topping as the cake bakes. Place in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown.

Storage Options

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, simply warm slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds. For longer storage, you can freeze slices individually; just wrap them tightly before freezing. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm.

Variations & Substitutions

If you’d like to make this recipe dairy-free, substitute the butter with a non-dairy alternative. Add nuts such as pecans for an extra crunch or blend in cinnamon for a spiced twist. Experiment with other fruits like pears or peaches for a different flavor profile, adapting to whatever ingredients you have on hand.

Serving Suggestions

This cake is perfect served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. It’s also an ideal dessert for potlucks, holiday dinners, or even a casual brunch, bringing a touch of homemade sweetness to any gathering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different fruit for the filling? Absolutely! Pears and peaches are excellent alternatives to apples in this recipe. Just ensure they are ripe and sliced thinly for even cooking.

Do I really need to use butter on top? Yes, the butter helps the cake mix form a crispy, golden topping, enhancing the texture and flavor of the finished cake. For a lighter option, you can reduce the quantity, but you’ll sacrifice some of that delightful crust.

What should I do if my cake is too runny? If your cake turns out too liquidy, it could be due to overly juicy apples or too much caramel. Allow the cake to set a bit after baking. If it’s still not ideal, a quick bake in the oven can help thicken it up.

This easy caramel apple dump cake proves that you don’t need to be a master baker to create something delightful in the kitchen. Share this recipe with loved ones and enjoy it as a delicious end to any meal.

Easy Caramel Apple Dump Cake Recipe

This deliciously simple Caramel Apple Dump Cake requires minimal prep work and delivers a delectable dessert perfect for any occasion.

No ratings yet

Rate This Yum Pin This Recipe For Later! Share The Yum On Facebook Print

Course: Dessert

Kitchen: American

Prep Time: 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes minutes

Servings: 8

Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients

 

1x2x3x

• ▢ 2 21 oz cans apple pie filling
• ▢ 1/2 cup caramel sauce plus more for drizzling
• ▢ 1 15.25 oz box yellow cake mix
• ▢ 1/2 cup unsalted butter 1 stick or 1/4 lb, sliced thin
• ▢ 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon optional, for added warmth
• ▢ Optional: chopped pecans sea salt, or vanilla ice cream for topping

Instructions

• Preheat Oven:
• Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
• Layer the Base:
• Spread both cans of apple pie filling evenly in the bottom of the dish. Drizzle caramel sauce over the apples and sprinkle with cinnamon if using.
• Add the Cake Mix:
• Pour the dry cake mix evenly over the apple layer. Do not stir.
• Top with Butter:
• Distribute the butter slices evenly over the top of the dry cake mix, covering as much as possible.
• Bake:
• Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly around the edges.
• Serve:
• Let it cool slightly before serving. Best enjoyed warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and an extra drizzle of caramel on top.

Notes

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat.