Caramel Apple Dump Cake: The Easiest Fall Dessert You’ll Ever Make

Few desserts are as effortlessly delicious as a dump cake, and this Caramel Apple Dump Cake takes the concept to a whole new level. It’s a warm, gooey, cinnamon-spiced treat that tastes like a cross between an apple crisp and a cobbler—all with minimal effort. Made with pantry staples like canned apple pie filling, boxed cake mix, and a generous drizzle of caramel sauce, this dessert comes together in minutes and bakes into something truly magical.

The beauty of a dump cake lies in its simplicity: no mixing bowls, no fancy techniques, and barely any prep. You just “dump” the ingredients into a baking dish, layer by layer, and let the oven do the rest. The result is a buttery, golden cake topping that sinks into bubbling caramel-coated apples. Topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, it’s pure comfort in a bowl.

Perfect for fall gatherings, holiday dinners, or lazy weekends, this recipe is a go-to for when you want something homemade that doesn’t take hours. It’s sweet, sticky, and guaranteed to have people asking for seconds—even though you barely lifted a finger.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Ridiculously Easy: Just dump, layer, and bake—no mixing or special equipment required.
2. Classic Fall Flavors: Apples, spice cake, and caramel come together in a cozy, nostalgic dessert.
3. Crowd-Pleaser: Serves a group and is perfect for potlucks, parties, or holidays.
4. Versatile Toppings: Serve with ice cream, whipped cream, or even extra caramel drizzle.
5. Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable pantry staples you likely already have on hand.

Ingredients

• Apple pie filling
• Caramel sauce
• Boxed spice cake mix (or yellow cake mix)
• Cold unsalted butter
• Butter (for greasing dish)
• Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream (optional, for serving)

Variations

• Fresh Apples: Use peeled, sliced apples tossed in sugar and cinnamon if you prefer a less sweet, homemade filling.
• Different Cake Mix: Try butter pecan, white, or vanilla cake mix for a different flavor profile.
• Add Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch.
• Extra Spice: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or apple pie spice to enhance the fall flavor.
• Salted Caramel Twist: Use salted caramel sauce for a sweet-and-salty upgrade.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.

Step 2: Add the Apple Filling

Pour the apple pie filling into the bottom of the baking dish and spread it out evenly.

Step 3: Drizzle with Caramel

Drizzle 1/2 cup of caramel sauce over the apple pie filling.

Step 4: Add the Cake Mix

Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the top of the filling and caramel. Do not mix.

Step 5: Top with Butter

Slice the cold butter into thin pats and place them evenly over the surface of the cake mix, covering as much as possible.

Step 6: Bake

Bake for 45–50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges.

Step 7: Serve

Let cool slightly before serving. Top with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream and an extra drizzle of caramel sauce if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Spread ingredients evenly for consistent texture and baking.
• Don’t mix the cake mix into the filling—just sprinkle it over the top.
• Use cold butter for best results—it melts slowly and helps crisp the top.
• Check doneness by ensuring the top is golden and the edges are bubbly.
• Let it rest for 10–15 minutes after baking to allow the filling to set slightly.

How to Serve

Serve warm in bowls, preferably topped with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or a swirl of whipped cream. A drizzle of warm caramel sauce adds a beautiful finishing touch. This dessert pairs perfectly with a hot cup of coffee, spiced cider, or mulled wine for the ultimate fall treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The texture may soften, but it will still taste great.

Freezing

Freeze cooled dump cake in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Warm individual portions in the microwave for 30–45 seconds. You can also reheat the whole dish in a 300°F (150°C) oven until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh apples instead of canned pie filling?

Yes, but you’ll need to cook them down slightly with sugar and spices before baking.

2. What kind of caramel sauce should I use?

Any store-bought or homemade caramel sauce works—salted caramel adds extra depth.

3. Do I need to stir the layers together?

No, just layer and bake. Stirring will ruin the texture.

4. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, just use a gluten-free cake mix and confirm your filling and caramel are gluten-free.

5. Can I use margarine instead of butter?

You can, but real butter provides better flavor and browning.

6. What if I don’t have spice cake mix?

Use yellow or white cake mix and add 1–2 teaspoons of cinnamon or apple pie spice.

7. Can I make it in a slow cooker?

Yes, cook on low for 2.5 to 3 hours or until the top is set and edges are bubbling.

8. How do I avoid dry spots of cake mix?

Distribute butter evenly and consider adding a few extra pats if spots look dry.

9. Can I double the caramel?

Absolutely—just make sure the sweetness level is to your taste.

10. Is this good served cold?

It’s best warm, but you can enjoy it chilled if you prefer a firmer texture.

Conclusion

Caramel Apple Dump Cake is the dessert you turn to when you want maximum comfort with minimal effort. It’s sweet, rich, spiced just right, and has the perfect balance of textures—gooey fruit filling, buttery crisp topping, and creamy caramel throughout. Whether you serve it at a holiday dinner or whip it up on a lazy Sunday afternoon, it’s guaranteed to bring cozy vibes and happy faces to the table. Just dump, bake, and enjoy!

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