Caramel Apple Dump Cake Recipe

If you love warm, cozy flavors and crave something remarkably simple yet impressively delicious, let me introduce you to the magic of a Caramel Apple Dump Cake. This dessert captures the spirit of fall in every bite with tender apples, luscious caramel, and a perfectly golden crumb topping that’s incredibly easy to make. With minimal fuss but maximum flavor, the Caramel Apple Dump Cake is the ultimate comfort treat you’ll want to make again and again, especially when you need a quick, crowd-pleasing dessert that feels like it took hours to prepare.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting to know the ingredients for this Caramel Apple Dump Cake is like meeting the stars of the show—each one plays a vital role in creating a balance of tart, sweet, and buttery that can’t be beat. From tart apples to rich caramel and the golden cake mix topping, every component contributes something special to the perfect harmony of this dessert.

• Apples (5-6 medium): Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples give the perfect balance of tartness and sweetness while adding tender texture.
• Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Just enough sweetness to enhance the natural flavor of the apples without overpowering.
• Cinnamon (1 tsp, optional): Adds warm spice notes that complement the apples beautifully.
• Lemon juice (1 tbsp): Keeps the apples fresh and bright by preventing browning and adds a hint of zing.
• Apple pie filling (1 can, 20 oz): Boosts the apple flavor and adds a luscious, saucy component.
• Caramel sauce (1 jar, 11 oz): Infuses every bite with buttery, rich sweetness that pairs perfectly with the apples.
• Yellow cake mix (1 box, 15.25 oz): The secret to a golden, soft, and slightly crispy topping that contrasts the tender apples underneath.
• Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted): Brings moisture and richness to the topping, making it beautifully crisp and golden.
• Chopped pecans or walnuts (1/4 cup, optional): Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to enhance the texture.
• Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream (optional for serving): The perfect creamy finishing touch that melts over each warm serving.

How to Make Caramel Apple Dump Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Start by peeling and slicing your chosen apples. Granny Smith apples bring tartness, while Honeycrisp offers a sweeter profile—either way, both soften beautifully during baking. Toss them gently with granulated sugar, cinnamon if using, and lemon juice. This mixes in a little spice and acidity to brighten the fruit and keep its vibrant color as it bakes.

Step 2: Layer the Apple Pie Filling and Apples

In your baking dish, spoon the apple pie filling first to create a sweet, saucy base. Then spread your prepared apple slices evenly on top. This layering helps maintain juicy pockets of apple inside the cake and ensures every bite is bursting with fruity goodness.

Step 3: Add the Caramel Sauce

Drizzle the luscious caramel sauce over the apples. This step is critical for infusing the dessert with that rich, buttery flavor which elevates this dump cake far beyond the ordinary. Don’t be shy—more caramel means more indulgence!

Step 4: Sprinkle the Cake Mix

Evenly spread the dry yellow cake mix across the top of the caramel-covered apples. This cake mix acts like a blanket that will absorb some of the juicy apple-caramel mixture as it bakes, creating a tender, flavorful topping.

Step 5: Pour Melted Butter and Add Nuts

Finally, drizzle the melted butter slowly over the cake mix—this encourages a golden, crunchy crust. If you like, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for that irresistible crunch and nutty aroma.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling

Pop the dish into a preheated oven and bake until the top is golden brown and the apples underneath are bubbling with caramel sweetness. This step transforms all the layers into a cohesive, luscious dessert that’s as satisfying as it is simple.

How to Serve Caramel Apple Dump Cake

Garnishes

To make your Caramel Apple Dump Cake even more inviting, serve it warm with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The contrast of cold cream melting into the warm cake is pure heaven. A light dusting of cinnamon or a drizzle of extra caramel sauce adds a lovely finishing touch.

Side Dishes

This dessert pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot coffee or spiced tea, making it ideal for a cozy afternoon treat or after-dinner indulgence. For brunch, try it alongside a sharp cheddar cheese board for an unexpected but delightful flavor combination.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the Caramel Apple Dump Cake in individual ramekins for a personalized touch at dinner parties, or layer it in a glass trifle bowl for a beautiful, rustic centerpiece. You can even add a crunchy topping of crushed gingersnaps or a sprinkle of sea salt to take the flavor profile up a notch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen over time, making each bite even more comforting the next day. Just cover the cake tightly to preserve moisture and prevent it from drying out.

Freezing

Caramel Apple Dump Cake freezes wonderfully. Simply wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil, or store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to keep the texture intact.

Reheating

Warm up leftovers in the oven at 325°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. This method revives the crisp topping and keeps the apples tender and juicy. Microwaving works for a quick warm-up but won’t keep the topping as crisp.

FAQs

Can I use fresh caramel sauce instead of store-bought?

Absolutely! Homemade caramel sauce is a fantastic upgrade that brings a richer, more complex flavor to your Caramel Apple Dump Cake. Just be sure it’s thick enough to hold its place during baking without running off too much.

Is it okay to substitute other types of apples?

Yes, you can experiment with different apple varieties. Just keep in mind that some apples are softer and sweeter, while others hold their shape better and add tartness. A mix often achieves the best flavor balance.

Can I make this dessert vegan?

You can make it vegan by using a dairy-free butter substitute and ensuring your caramel sauce is vegan-friendly. There are plenty of plant-based options for each ingredient that will still deliver that cozy dessert experience.

What if I don’t have apple pie filling on hand?

You can skip the pie filling and just use fresh apples tossed with sugar, cinnamon, and a little cornstarch to thicken the juices. The pie filling just adds an extra layer of sweetness and texture but isn’t absolutely necessary.

How long does it take to bake this cake?

Typically, baking takes about 35-45 minutes at 350°F. The key is to wait until the topping is beautifully golden and the apples beneath are bubbling with caramel juices.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly comforting about a Caramel Apple Dump Cake that hits all the right notes of sweet, tart, and buttery. Whether you’re making it for a holiday gathering, a family dessert, or just because you want a little homemade indulgence, it promises ease without sacrificing flavor. Give this recipe a try, and I’m confident it will become one of your absolute favorites to have on hand whenever a craving for cozy, caramel-apple goodness strikes.

Print