Table of Contents
Introduction
Why This Apple Pie Dump Cake is a Must-Try!
If you love warm, comforting desserts but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, this Apple Pie Dump Cake Recipe is your perfect solution! This easy recipe combines the classic flavors of apple pie with the simplicity of a dump cake, making it a favorite for busy bakers and dessert lovers alike.
What’s even better? You don’t need any fancy baking skills—just dump the ingredients into a pan, bake, and enjoy! This delicious apple dessert is similar to a cobbler but even easier, thanks to its simple layering method.
Perfect for Any Occasion
- Holidays & Gatherings – A great dessert for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or family dinners.
- Weeknight Treats – Whip it up in minutes for a cozy dessert after dinner.
- Potlucks & Parties – Always a hit at social gatherings!
What to Expect from This Dessert
This apple dump cake has a warm, gooey apple filling infused with cinnamon and topped with a crispy, buttery cake layer. The combination of soft, caramelized apples and a slightly crunchy topping creates a dessert that’s both comforting and irresistible.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Super Easy to Make – No mixing bowls required! Just layer and bake.
✅ Only a Few Ingredients – Uses pantry staples like cake mix and canned apple pie filling.
✅ Perfect Fall Dessert – Warm cinnamon apples make it a cozy autumn treat.
✅ Customizable – Add caramel, nuts, or ice cream for extra indulgence.
If you love easy and delicious desserts, check out this Easy Cranberry Coffee Cake Recipe – Moist, Sweet & Tangy for another quick and flavorful treat.
Looking for more apple-based desserts? Try this Apple Dump Cake for another tasty variation!
Easy Apple Pie Dump Cake Recipe – A Simple, Irresistible Dessert
This Apple Pie Dump Cake Recipe is the perfect combination of warm, spiced apples and a buttery, crisp cake topping. With just a few pantry ingredients, you can create a delicious dessert that tastes like a homemade apple pie—but with half the effort!
Whether you’re a baking pro or a beginner, this recipe is effortless and requires zero mixing—just dump, bake, and enjoy!
🍏 Ingredients for Apple Pie Dump Cake
This recipe keeps things simple while delivering amazing flavor. Below is everything you need to make this easy apple dump cake:
🛒 Main Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix – The key to the buttery, golden crust.
- 2 (21-ounce) cans of apple pie filling – The heart of the recipe! If you love a homemade touch, try making your own apple filling.
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted) – For a perfectly crisp and buttery topping.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Enhances the apple flavor and adds warmth.
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg (optional) – Adds a hint of extra spice.
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional) – Adds crunch and depth.
🍦 Optional Toppings & Add-Ins
- Caramel sauce – Drizzle over the top for an extra indulgent twist.
- Vanilla ice cream – A scoop on top makes it even better.
- Whipped cream – Light and fluffy contrast to the warm cake.
Looking for another easy dessert? This Best Rice Krispie Treats Recipe is another quick and satisfying treat!
👨🍳 How to Make Apple Pie Dump Cake
This recipe is as easy as layering ingredients and baking. Just follow these simple steps for a perfectly gooey, crisp, and flavorful dessert every time!
📌 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
Step 2: Layer the Apple Pie Filling
- Pour both cans of apple pie filling into the baking dish.
- Spread evenly with a spatula.
- Sprinkle ground cinnamon and nutmeg over the apples for extra flavor.
💡 Pro Tip: If you want a homemade touch, try using fresh apples! Check out this Apple Dump Cake for another variation.
Step 3: Add the Cake Mix
- Sprinkle dry cake mix evenly over the apple filling—no mixing required!
- Spread it out with a fork for even coverage.
Step 4: Add Butter & Toppings
- Drizzle melted butter evenly over the dry cake mix.
- If using, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
💡 Tip: Want a caramelized topping? Add small butter slices instead of melting it!
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
- Place in the oven and bake for 40–45 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
- Enjoy the gooey apple filling with the crunchy, buttery crust.
For another delicious apple treat, try this Easy Dutch Apple Pie!
How to Make the Best Apple Pie Dump Cake – Cooking & Serving Tips
This Apple Pie Dump Cake Recipe is already incredibly easy, but with a few extra tips, you can make it even better! Whether you want to enhance the flavor, store leftovers properly, or switch up the ingredients to fit your dietary needs, we’ve got you covered.
🍎 Pro Tips for Success
For the best texture and flavor, follow these expert tips to make your Apple Pie Dump Cake absolutely perfect.
✅ Ingredient Swaps & Adjustments
Want to customize your dump cake? Try these easy swaps and adjustments:
- Use Fresh Apples – Instead of canned filling, slice 4–5 fresh apples, mix with ¼ cup sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and use that instead!
- Switch the Cake Mix – Try spice cake mix for a more autumnal flavor, or white cake mix for a lighter taste.
- Add More Texture – Stir in chopped pecans, walnuts, or shredded coconut for an extra crunch.
- Enhance the Sweetness – A drizzle of caramel sauce makes this even more indulgent!
🛠️ Storage & Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers (which rarely happens!), here’s how to store and reheat your Apple Pie Dump Cake:
- Refrigerate – Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze – Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
- Reheat in the Oven – Warm at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes to restore crispiness.
- Reheat in the Microwave – Heat individual servings for 30–40 seconds.
💡 Pro Tip: Add a splash of heavy cream or melted butter before reheating to keep the cake moist!
🔥 Flavor & Texture Enhancements
Want to take this cake to the next level? Try these simple techniques:
- Toast the Nuts – If you’re adding nuts, toast them for 5 minutes before sprinkling on top.
- Brown the Butter – Instead of melting butter, brown it for a richer, nutty taste.
- Add Extra Spices – A pinch of clove, nutmeg, or allspice can deepen the fall flavors.
For another cozy dessert with a twist, check out this Easy Cranberry Coffee Cake Recipe!
🌱 Variations & Substitutions
Looking for ways to make this gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegan? Here are easy modifications:
Gluten-Free Apple Dump Cake
- Swap the regular cake mix for a gluten-free yellow cake mix.
- Ensure your apple pie filling is labeled gluten-free.
Vegan Apple Dump Cake
- Use a vegan cake mix (most boxed cake mixes are vegan, just check the ingredients).
- Swap butter for melted coconut oil or vegan butter.
Low-Sugar Version
- Use no-sugar-added apple pie filling.
- Replace cake mix with a sugar-free alternative like almond flour and a sweetener blend.
For another easy apple dessert, try this Apple Dump Cake for a delicious alternative!
🍽️ How to Serve Apple Pie Dump Cake
This warm, gooey dessert pairs well with so many delicious sides and toppings!
🥂 Pairing Ideas
For a perfectly balanced dessert, serve with:
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream – The warm cake with cold ice cream is a match made in heaven.
- Hot apple cider – Complements the cinnamon flavors beautifully.
- Whipped cream – Adds a light and creamy contrast.
- A strong espresso or coffee – Balances out the sweetness.
🌿 Best Garnishes
- Powdered sugar – A light dusting makes it look bakery-perfect.
- Caramel drizzle – Adds a gooey, sweet touch.
- Toasted nuts – Provides crunch and nuttiness.
- Fresh apple slices – A great way to enhance the apple flavor!
For another easy, no-fuss dessert, try this Best Rice Krispie Treats Recipe for a quick and crunchy snack.
🎉 Final Thoughts
This Apple Pie Dump Cake Recipe is the ultimate quick and easy dessert—perfect for fall gatherings, holiday feasts, or just a cozy night in. With its warm, spiced apples and buttery, crisp topping, it’s bound to be a crowd favorite.
Give it a try, and let us know how you customize yours! 🍏🍰
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I Use Fresh Apples Instead of Canned Apple Pie Filling?
Absolutely! If you prefer a fresh apple filling, simply slice 4–5 apples and toss them with:
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
Then, spread the apple mixture in the baking dish before adding the cake mix. This gives a fresher, slightly tart flavor. For another homemade apple treat, check out this Apple Dump Cake!
2. What’s the Best Cake Mix for This Recipe?
A classic yellow cake mix works best, but you can experiment with:
- Spice cake mix for a richer fall flavor.
- White cake mix for a lighter taste.
- Butter pecan cake mix for a nuttier twist.
3. How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers? Lucky you! Store them properly:
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge overnight.
- Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes to keep the topping crispy.
For another make-ahead dessert, try this Easy Cranberry Coffee Cake Recipe!
4. What Can I Serve with Apple Pie Dump Cake?
This dessert pairs well with:
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream for a warm-and-cold contrast.
- Caramel drizzle to enhance the rich flavors.
- Hot apple cider or espresso for a cozy treat.
🍏 Final Thoughts – Why You Need to Try This Apple Pie Dump Cake
This Apple Pie Dump Cake Recipe is the ultimate quick and easy dessert that delivers big flavors with minimal effort. Whether you need a last-minute holiday dessert, a cozy fall treat, or a simple weeknight indulgence, this recipe is the perfect choice.
🔑 Key Takeaways
- Effortless & Delicious – Just dump, bake, and enjoy—no mixing required!
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for Thanksgiving, potlucks, or casual desserts.
- Customizable – Swap ingredients, add toppings, or make it gluten-free/vegan.
- Pairs Well with Toppings – Serve with vanilla ice cream, caramel sauce, or whipped cream.
For another quick and satisfying dessert, check out this Best Rice Krispie Treats Recipe—a crispy, chewy delight!
📢 Ready to Bake? Give It a Try!
Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to make your own Apple Pie Dump Cake! Don’t forget to:
✔ Experiment with different cake mixes and toppings
✔ Store leftovers properly to enjoy later
✔ Pair it with your favorite drinks or ice cream
If you loved this apple dessert, you’ll also enjoy this Easy Dutch Apple Pie—a classic fall favorite!
Want more easy dessert ideas? Subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious recipes, baking tips, and kitchen hacks! Happy baking! 🍏🍰
PrintEasy Apple Pie Dump Cake Recipe
A quick & easy dessert with apple pie filling, cake mix, and butter for a warm, gooey inside and crisp, golden topping.
- Total Time: 50 min
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 2 (21 oz) cans apple pie filling
- ½ cup melted butter
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp nutmeg (optional)
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spread apple pie filling evenly in the dish. Sprinkle with cinnamon & nutmeg.
- Evenly sprinkle dry cake mix over apples.
- Drizzle melted butter over the top. Add nuts (optional).
- Bake for 40–45 mins until golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Tips & Variations
- Use fresh apples instead of canned for a homemade touch.
- Try spice or butter pecan cake mix for a flavor twist.
- Make it gluten-free with a GF cake mix.
- Serve with ice cream, caramel drizzle, or whipped cream.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 40 min