Apple Dump Cake: 1 Amazing Easy Dessert

Name: Apple Dump Cake: 1 Amazing Easy Dessert
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (18.25 ounce) package yellow cake mix; 1 cup chopped pecans; 1 cup butter, melted; 2 cans (21 ounces each) apple pie filling; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

by Jannet Lisa

23 de August de 2025

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Easy Apple Dump Cake has been my go-to for years when I need a crowd-pleasing dessert without any fuss. I remember the first time I made it for a potluck; I was so nervous, but it disappeared in minutes! The sweet, tender apples bubbling under a perfectly crisp, buttery streusel topping smell absolutely incredible, filling my whole kitchen with warmth. It’s truly a magical dessert that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. Let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Apple Dump Cake

This dessert is an absolute winner for so many reasons! It’s incredibly easy to make, making it perfect for even beginner bakers. You’ll adore the amazing taste – tender, spiced apples topped with a sweet, golden cake crust. The prep time is unbelievably short, usually under 15 minutes! Plus, it’s wonderfully budget-friendly, using common pantry staples. This is a fantastic family-friendly dessert that everyone will ask for seconds of. The way the apples meld with the cake is just divine; it’s like a deconstructed Apple Pie Dump Cake. Honestly, this simple Dump Cake with Apples is a stress-free way to impress your guests!

Ingredients for Apple Dump Cake

Gathering your ingredients for this simple Apple Dump Cake is a breeze, and it’s mostly pantry staples! You’ll need one 18.25 ounce package yellow cake mix – this forms the magical topping. I love using a yellow cake mix because it gives a lovely, slightly sweet base, but feel free to experiment with spice cake mixes too. You’ll also need 2 cans (21 ounces each) apple pie filling, which is the heart of this dessert. For that irresistible texture and rich flavor, we use 1 cup butter, melted. This is crucial for getting that golden, crispy topping, so make sure it’s evenly poured. Don’t forget 1 cup chopped pecans for a delightful crunch, and a sprinkle of 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon and 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg to really amp up that cozy apple pie flavor. This Apple Dump Cake with Cake Mix is so straightforward!

How to Make Apple Dump Cake

Making this Simple Apple Dump Cake is incredibly satisfying, and the process is so straightforward, you’ll wonder why you haven’t made it sooner! Get ready for a dessert that practically makes itself.

Step 1: First things first, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grab a 9×13 inch baking dish – this is where all the magic will happen.
Step 2: Open up those cans of apple pie filling. Pour both cans evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish. You’ll see that lovely, thick apple mixture spread out, promising a sweet, fruity base.
Step 3: Now, take your 18.25 ounce package yellow cake mix. Sprinkle it evenly over the apple pie filling. Try to get a nice, even layer so you don’t have dry pockets later. It should look like a blanket of dry cake mix ready to transform.
Step 4: If you’re adding nuts (and I highly recommend it!), sprinkle the 1 cup chopped pecans evenly over the cake mix. They’ll toast up beautifully in the oven, adding a wonderful crunch.
Step 5: Melt your 1 cup butter. This is key for that golden, crispy topping. Slowly and evenly pour the melted butter all over the top of the cake mix and nuts. Make sure every bit of the dry mix gets some butter.
Step 6: For that perfect warm, cozy flavor, sprinkle the 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon and 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg over the buttered top. This is where the delicious aroma of a Cinnamon Apple Dump Cake really starts to fill your kitchen.
Step 7: Carefully place the baking dish into your preheated oven. Bake for about 45-55 minutes. You’re looking for that glorious golden brown color on top and for the filling to be bubbly around the edges. The smell is absolutely divine!
Step 8: Once it’s beautifully golden and bubbling, carefully remove it from the oven. Let it cool for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows it to set up a bit, making it easier to scoop and serve.

Pro Tips for the Best Apple Dump Cake

I’ve learned a few tricks over the years to make this dessert absolutely perfect every time. These simple tips will elevate your Apple Dump Cake from good to unforgettable.

For an extra moist and flavorful topping, try using a spice cake mix instead of yellow cake mix. It adds a wonderful depth of flavor that complements the apples beautifully.
Don’t skip the nuts! Chopped pecans or walnuts add a fantastic crunch and nutty richness that contrasts perfectly with the soft apples and cake.
Ensure the melted butter is poured as evenly as possible over the dry cake mix. This is key to achieving that coveted golden-brown, crispy topping.
Let the cake cool for at least 10-15 minutes after baking. This allows the filling to set up, preventing it from being too runny when you serve it.

Golden brown Apple Dump Cake fresh from the oven

What’s the secret to a perfect Apple Dump Cake?

The secret to a truly perfect Apple Dump Cake lies in the even distribution of ingredients, especially the butter. Making sure the melted butter coats the dry cake mix thoroughly ensures a consistent, crisp golden topping. Adding a little extra Apple Dump Cake with Cinnamon before baking also boosts that comforting aroma and flavor.

Can I make Apple Dump Cake ahead of time?

You certainly can assemble this Homemade Apple Dump Cake ahead of time! Just prepare it completely, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Apple Dump Cake?

A common pitfall is not covering the entire cake mix with butter, leading to dry, uncooked spots. Another mistake is cutting into it too soon; be patient and let it cool slightly. Also, avoid using a low-fat apple pie filling, as it can make the dessert too watery. For more baking tips, check out these bread secrets and recipes.

Best Ways to Serve Apple Dump Cake

This delightful Apple Dump Cake is incredibly versatile and shines in so many ways. For a classic and truly comforting experience, serve it warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast between the warm, gooey cake and the cold, creamy ice cream is pure bliss! Another fantastic option is a dollop of freshly whipped cream, perhaps lightly sweetened with a touch of maple syrup. If you’re looking for something a bit richer, a drizzle of caramel sauce takes it to the next level. It’s the perfect Apple Dump Cake for dessert after any meal, especially during the fall or winter months.

Nutrition Facts for Apple Dump Cake

This easy dessert is a treat, and here’s a look at what you can expect per serving of this delicious Apple Dump Cake. Remember, these are estimates as individual ingredients can vary.

Calories: 450
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Protein: 3g
Carbohydrates: 55g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 40g
Sodium: 300mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more healthy dessert ideas, consider these healthy Kit Kat bites.

How to Store and Reheat Homemade Apple Dump Cake

Once your delicious Apple Dump Cake has cooled down a bit, storing it properly is key to enjoying its goodness later. Make sure it’s completely cooled before you even think about covering it. I usually let mine sit on the counter for at least an hour. Then, you can cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This Homemade Apple Dump Cake will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it even longer, you can freeze it! Wrap individual portions or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and it should last in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, you can pop a slice in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds until warm, or bake it in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. It’s almost as good as fresh! For other sweet treats, try these Nutter Butter bars.

Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Dump Cake

What are the essential Apple Dump Cake ingredients?

The beauty of this dessert is its simplicity! The core Apple Dump Cake ingredients typically include canned apple pie filling, a box of cake mix (yellow or spice are popular), and melted butter. Many recipes also call for nuts like pecans for added texture and flavor. It’s a very forgiving recipe, so don’t stress too much about exact measurements for the additions!

How long does Apple Dump Cake typically take to bake?

The Apple Dump Cake cooking time is generally around 45 to 55 minutes. You’re looking for a beautiful golden-brown topping and for the apple filling to be bubbly around the edges. Always keep an eye on it towards the end, as oven temperatures can vary, and you want that perfect crisp without burning. For a similar baking experience, try our apple cider donut cake.

Can I use a different type of cake mix for my Apple Dump Cake?

Absolutely! While yellow cake mix is classic, a spice cake mix is fantastic for an extra layer of warmth and flavor that pairs wonderfully with the apples and cinnamon. You could even try a white cake mix or a butter pecan flavor if you find one. The key is that it’s a dry mix that bakes up crispily on top.

What happens if I don’t pour the butter evenly?

If the melted butter isn’t poured evenly over the dry cake mix, you might end up with pockets of dry, uncooked cake batter. This is why it’s so important to try and distribute it as uniformly as possible. It’s the butter that helps the cake mix toast up and become that delicious, crispy crust we all love on an Apple Dump Cake.

Variations of Apple Dump Cake You Can Try

While the classic yellow cake mix version is amazing, there are so many fun ways to tweak this dessert! You can easily create an Apple Pie Dump Cake by using a spice cake mix instead of yellow. This adds an extra layer of warmth that’s just perfect for fall. For a different flavor profile, try a cherry or blueberry pie filling instead of apple; it’s a delightful surprise! If you want to make an Apple Spice Dump Cake even more decadent, consider adding a handful of dried cranberries or chopped walnuts to the pie filling before you start. For a lighter touch, you could experiment with a sugar-free cake mix and sugar-free apple pie filling, though I find the original is hard to beat for pure comfort! If you’re looking for other apple-themed recipes, check out our apple zucchini bread.