There’s something truly satisfying about baking a dessert that transforms your kitchen into a cozy haven, filled with mouth-watering aromas. Imagine the sweet scent of warm apples mingling with rich caramel and spices it’s hard to resist! This Caramel Apple Dump Cake is definitely a crowd-pleaser, perfect for cozy gatherings or a sweet treat after a busy day.
I discovered this delightful recipe during a chilly fall evening when I longed for a dessert that could evoke warmth and comfort. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, it quickly became my go-to for those moments when I want to impress without the fuss. Whether you’re serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoying it straight from the pan, this cake beautifully captures the essence of homemade goodness.
So, let’s dive into this simple yet decadent recipe that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Why is Caramel Apple Dump Cake so special?
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of apple pie filling and caramel creates a sweet-rich experience you won’t forget.
Quick & Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep, it’s the perfect solution for busy home cooks craving homemade goodness.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Serve warm with ice cream, and watch your guests rave about it!
Cozy Comfort: Ideal for fall get-togethers, this cake fills your home with heartwarming aromas.
Minimal Ingredients: You only need four simple items, making this recipe budget-friendly and accessible for everyone!
Caramel Apple Dump Cake Ingredients
For the Cake Base
• Apple pie filling – adds a delightful sweetness and rich fruitiness to the cake.
• Caramel sauce – provides a luscious, decadent drizzled finish that enhances the overall flavor.
For the Cake Topping
• Spice cake mix – a quick and easy base that infuses warm spice notes throughout the dish.
• Butter – makes the cake irresistibly moist and helps to form a deliciously golden crust.
How to Make Caramel Apple Dump Cake
- Preheat oven: Set your oven to 350°F and spray a 9×13 baking dish with non-stick spray. This ensures that your cake won’t stick and makes for easy serving later!
- Layer pie filling: Pour the apple pie filling into the baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Drizzle the caramel sauce generously over the filling to create a sweet, gooey layer.
- Add cake mix: Evenly sprinkle the dry spice cake mix over the apple pie filling. Don’t stir; the layers will meld together beautifully while baking.
- Top with butter: Thinly slice your butter and arrange the slices evenly over the top of the cake mix. Cover as much of the mix as you can for that rich, buttery goodness.
- Bake to perfection: Place your dish in the oven and bake for about 1 hour. Keep an eye out for a golden-brown top and bubbly filling it’s a sign that your cake is ready!
- Serve and enjoy: Once cooled slightly, serve your warm caramel apple dump cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and an extra drizzle of caramel on top.
Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra touch of warmth.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Caramel Apple Dump Cake Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on this delightful cake; the possibilities are as warm and cozy as the bake itself!
- Nutty Crunch: Add 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans on top of the cake mix for a delightful crunchy texture. The nutty flavor pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the apples and caramel.
- Fruit Twist: Substitute half of the apple pie filling with peach or cherry filling for a delicious fruity variation. This creates a delightful medley of flavors that will surprise your taste buds.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free spice cake mix to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive guests. You’ll enjoy the same rich flavors without the worry!
- Choco-Boost: Sprinkle 1 cup of chocolate chips over the cake mix before adding the butter for a chocolatey twist. This results in a delightful contrast of caramel apples and chocolate pure bliss!
- Cinnamon Spice: Mix 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon into the spice cake mix to amplify the warm spices. This simple adjustment will enhance the autumn flavors perfectly.
- Maple Drizzle: Swap out caramel sauce for maple syrup to add a new layer of flavor. The earthy sweetness of maple offers a lovely twist that complements the apples beautifully.
- Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free butter substitute in place of regular butter for a vegan-approved version. This makes the cake accessible to everyone, without sacrificing taste.
- Heat It Up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the apple filling for a sweet-and-spicy kick. The heat balances the sweetness, creating an exciting flavor experience!
What to Serve with Caramel Apple Dump Cake?
Imagine the table set for a delightful gathering, where comforting desserts meet equally satisfying companions to create an unforgettable experience.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cold texture of vanilla ice cream perfectly contrasts the warm, spiced cake, enhancing every delightful bite.
- Caramel Sauce Drizzle: A simple drizzle over each serving elevates the dessert’s sweetness, adding a rich, indulgent touch.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream balances the dense cake, offering a refreshing contrast that complements its flavors beautifully.
- Cinnamon Sugar Pecans: For an extra crunch, sprinkle some cinnamon sugar pecans on top. Their nutty flavor harmonizes with the cake’s spices, making each bite even more interesting!
To make it extra special, consider serving a warm spiced apple cider alongside. The cozy flavors pair wonderfully with the cake, turning your dessert into a festive experience everyone will love.
- Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or an aromatic spiced tea can brighten the palate, bringing a touch of warmth to those sweet notes.
- Chocolate Drizzle Brownies: If you want to indulge your sweet tooth further, serve alongside rich brownies—a chocolate lover’s dream that can’t be beat!
Ultimately, mix and match these pairings to create a personalized dessert experience that will enchant family and friends alike.
Make Ahead Options
These Caramel Apple Dump Cake is a great choice for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the apple pie filling and drizzle it with caramel sauce up to 24 hours in advance, making the layers easier to assemble when you’re ready to bake. Simply store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. The cake mix can also be measured out ahead of time just keep it in a dry place until you’re ready to use it. When it’s time to bake, layer the ingredients as directed, top with butter, and pop it in the oven for a warm, comforting dessert that’s just as delicious as when made fresh!
Expert Tips for Caramel Apple Dump Cake
• Layering Matters: Properly layer the apple pie filling and caramel sauce underneath the cake mix for balanced sweetness. Avoid mixing layers for best results.
• Butter Placement: Make sure to cover most of the cake mix with sliced butter. This prevents dry spots and gives your Caramel Apple Dump Cake a moist texture.
• Oven Temperature: An accurately preheated oven ensures even baking. Use an oven thermometer to avoid surprises and ensure a perfectly baked cake.
• Serving Warm: For the ultimate experience, serve the cake warm. The gooey caramel and soft apples shine best right out of the oven!
• Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Reheat individual servings in the microwave for a delightful warm treat!
How to Store and Freeze Caramel Apple Dump Cake
Room Temperature: Store any leftovers at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain flavor and texture.
Fridge: If you prefer, refrigerate the cake for up to a week. Cover it well to prevent it from drying out or absorbing unwanted odors.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To enjoy your Caramel Apple Dump Cake warm, reheat servings in the microwave for 30-40 seconds or in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Caramel Apple Dump Cake Recipe FAQs
What type of apples work best for the pie filling?
Absolutely! While store-bought apple pie filling works perfectly here, you can also use homemade filling with tart varieties like Granny Smith or sweet ones like Honeycrisp. A mix of both provides a delightful balance of flavors!
How should I store leftover Caramel Apple Dump Cake?
For room temperature storage, keep any leftovers in an airtight container for about 3 days. If you’d like to extend its life, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. Just make sure to cover it well to avoid drying out!
Can I freeze Caramel Apple Dump Cake?
Yes, you can freeze it! To do so, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It should stay good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to enjoy that warm, gooey goodness.
What should I do if my cake isn’t browning on top?
If your cake isn’t browning as expected after about 50 minutes of baking, it may need a bit more time. Every oven is different, so keep it in for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, checking frequently to avoid burning. You can also tent it with foil if the edges start to darken too quickly while the center remains undercooked.
Is this recipe suitable for those with nut allergies?
Yes, this Caramel Apple Dump Cake is nut-free, making it a safe option for those with nut allergies. However, always ensure that the spice cake mix you use doesn’t contain nuts, as manufacturers can vary.
Can I add more spices to enhance the flavor?
Very! If you’re a spice lover, feel free to add some extra cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake mix before sprinkling it over the apples. You could even mix in some chopped pecans or walnuts if not catering to nut allergies—just remember to notify your guests!
Caramel Apple Dump Cake: Easy Bliss in Every Bite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F and spray a 9×13 baking dish with non-stick spray.
- Pour the apple pie filling into the baking dish and drizzle caramel sauce over it.
- Evenly sprinkle the dry spice cake mix over the filling without stirring.
- Arrange sliced butter evenly over the top of the cake mix.
- Bake for about 1 hour until golden-brown and bubbly.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and an extra drizzle of caramel.