If you’re looking for a comforting dessert that feels like a warm hug, you absolutely need to try this Apple Dump Cake Recipe. It’s one of those genius dessert hacks that come together with just a handful of pantry staples but results in a tender, sweet, and wonderfully spiced treat that’s perfect for any time of year. The combination of tender apple pie filling infused with cinnamon and nutmeg, a golden crunchy cake topping, and a buttery pecan finish makes every bite a little celebration. Trust me, once you taste this, the Apple Dump Cake Recipe will become your go-to dessert for family dinners, potlucks, or just a special night in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this Apple Dump Cake Recipe so delightful is how simple yet thoughtfully chosen the ingredients are. Each one plays an essential role—from the sweet and spiced apple filling that forms the heart of the cake, to the cake mix that creates that perfect golden crust, all the way to the pecans that add a satisfying crunch.
- Apple pie filling (2 cans, 21 oz each): This is the juicy, tender fruit base that brings classic apple pie flavors with minimal effort.
- Yellow cake mix (1 box, 15.25 oz): The secret behind the buttery, crumbly crust that bakes up beautifully over the apples.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted): Adds richness and ensures the cake mix crisps up with a lovely golden color.
- Chopped pecans (1/2 cup): A crunchy, nutty topping that complements the soft apples perfectly.
- Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Infuses warm spice for that quintessential apple dessert aroma and taste.
- Ground nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): A little extra spice depth that subtly lifts the flavors.
- Brown sugar (1/4 cup): Adds a caramel note and balances the tartness of the apples.
- Vanilla ice cream (optional): The perfect creamy contrast when serving, though totally optional.
How to Make Apple Dump Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This simple prep ensures your Apple Dump Cake Recipe will bake evenly and release effortlessly from the dish.
Step 2: Layer the Apple Filling
Pour both cans of apple pie filling evenly at the bottom of your baking dish. Using the pie filling rather than fresh apples saves tons of prep time but still delivers juicy, spiced apples that soak perfectly into the cake topping.
Step 3: Spice it Up
Sprinkle the ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and brown sugar evenly over the apple filling. These spices bring that nostalgic apple pie aroma and flavor, making your kitchen smell heavenly.
Step 4: Add the Cake Mix
Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over the apple and spice layer in an even coating. This “dump” step is what gives this recipe its name and charming ease—no mixing batter required!
Step 5: Drizzle Butter and Add Pecans
Pour the melted butter evenly over the top of the cake mix. The butter works its magic during baking to crisp up the crust beautifully. Finally, sprinkle the chopped pecans on top for a delightful crunch in every bite.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake your Apple Dump Cake Recipe for about 45 minutes, or until the top turns a gorgeous golden brown and the apple filling bubbles enticingly around the edges. It’s best served warm, allowing the flavors to shine in all their cozy glory.
How to Serve Apple Dump Cake Recipe
Garnishes
The Apple Dump Cake Recipe is a star all on its own, but a scoop of cold vanilla ice cream on top takes it to another level. The creamy ice cream melts into the warm cake, creating a heavenly blend of hot and cold that’s irresistible. A sprinkle of extra cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel sauce can also make it feel like an extra special treat.
Side Dishes
This dessert pairs beautifully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a warming cup of spiced tea. If you want to balance it with something lighter, a simple green salad with walnuts and a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the Apple Dump Cake Recipe in individual ramekins for a charming personal dessert, perfect for dinner parties. You can also layer it in parfait glasses with whipped cream and fresh sliced apples for a fun twist. This dessert is as versatile as it is delicious!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Apple Dump Cake Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep beautifully for up to 4 days, and the flavors actually deepen overnight. Just be sure to cover it well to maintain moisture and keep the pecans crunchy.
Freezing
This cake freezes wonderfully! After baking and cooling completely, wrap it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.
Reheating
To bring your Apple Dump Cake Recipe back to life, warm individual servings in the microwave for about 30 seconds, or reheat the whole dish in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 15-20 minutes until heated through. Adding a scoop of ice cream right after reheating is a dream.
FAQs
Can I use fresh apples instead of canned pie filling?
Yes, but you’ll need to peel, core, and slice about 6 cups of fresh apples, then toss them with cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar before layering. Keep in mind fresh apples might release more moisture, so the texture could be a little different.
What if I have a different cake mix flavor? Will it still work?
Yellow cake mix works best for its buttery flavor and texture, but you can experiment with white or even spice cake mixes for a unique twist. Just remember that more strongly flavored mixes may shift the classic apple dump cake taste.
Can I make this dessert gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use a gluten-free yellow cake mix and be sure your apple pie filling doesn’t contain any gluten additives. This way, you’ll keep the dessert safe and delicious for gluten-sensitive guests.
What nuts can I use if I don’t like pecans?
Walnuts, almonds, or even chopped hazelnuts would be great substitutes. Each nut brings its own flavor and texture, so feel free to choose your favorite or omit nuts altogether if needed.
Is this dessert suitable to make ahead for a party?
Definitely. You can prepare the whole dish a day ahead, keep it covered in the fridge, and bake it just before your guests arrive. This saves time and keeps the cake fresh and warm for serving.
Final Thoughts
If you want a dessert recipe that’s ultra-simple, crowd-pleasing, and packed with cozy flavors, the Apple Dump Cake Recipe is your answer. It’s a perfect blend of ease and taste that feels homemade, even when you’re low on time. Go ahead and give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how something so effortless can taste so extraordinary!
Print
Apple Dump Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This easy and delicious Apple Dump Cake combines sweet apple pie filling with a buttery yellow cake topping and crunchy pecans for a simple yet comforting dessert. Ready in under an hour, it’s perfect for any occasion and can be served warm with vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat.
Ingredients
Filling
- 2 cans (21 oz each) apple pie filling
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
Topping
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Optional
- Vanilla ice cream, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Spread Apple Filling: Evenly spread the apple pie filling into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating a uniform layer.
- Add Spices and Sugar: Sprinkle the ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and brown sugar evenly over the apple filling to add warm spice and extra sweetness.
- Top with Cake Mix: Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the spiced apple layer, ensuring full coverage of the fruit beneath.
- Drizzle Butter and Add Pecans: Drizzle the melted unsalted butter evenly over the cake mix, then sprinkle the chopped pecans on top for added texture and flavor.
- Bake to Golden Perfection: Bake the assembled cake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbly. Serve warm, optionally topped with vanilla ice cream.
Notes
- Use room temperature butter for easier melting and even distribution.
- For extra crunch, toast the pecans before adding them to the top.
- This dessert can be made ahead and reheated in the oven before serving.
- If you prefer a less sweet cake, reduce the amount of brown sugar slightly.
- Gluten-free cake mix can be used for a gluten-free version.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
