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Get ready to impress your friends and family with a dessert that’s both simple and delicious! This Caramel Apple Dump Cake combines sweet apple filling, rich caramel, and a buttery cake mix for a treat you’ll crave. In just a few easy steps, you can create a warm, gooey dessert perfect for any occasion. Read on to unlock the secrets to this irresistible recipe!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This dump cake requires minimal effort with only a few simple steps, making it perfect for busy days.
- Deliciously Decadent: The combination of caramel and apple creates a rich and indulgent flavor that everyone loves.
- Customizable: You can easily add your favorite nuts or spices to tailor the recipe to your taste preferences.
- Perfect for Gatherings: This dessert serves a crowd, making it ideal for parties, potlucks, or family gatherings.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 2 cans (21 oz each) apple pie filling
– 1 cup caramel sauce
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for serving
Measurements and Substitutions
– You can use homemade apple pie filling instead of canned for a fresh taste.
– For caramel sauce, you can use store-bought or make your own. Just melt sugar and cream together.
– If you need a gluten-free option, choose a gluten-free yellow cake mix. It works great!
Using these ingredients sets the stage for a sweet and creamy dessert. Each item plays a key role in the flavor and texture. The apple pie filling gives a fruity base. The caramel sauce adds sweetness and richness. Ground cinnamon enhances the warm flavors. The yellow cake mix provides structure. Melted butter keeps everything moist. Chopped pecans, though optional, give a nice crunch. Finally, whipped cream or ice cream makes every bite feel special. Enjoy this easy and fun recipe!

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This helps the cake release easily.
Mixing Ingredients
– In a large bowl, mix the apple pie filling, caramel sauce, and ground cinnamon.
– Stir well. Make sure the apples are fully coated in the caramel mix.
– Pour the apple filling into the greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
– Take the dry yellow cake mix and sprinkle it over the apple mixture. Do not stir. This keeps the layers separate.
– Drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix. Let it soak in without mixing.
– If using, sprinkle the chopped pecans on top for a nice crunch.
Baking Instructions
– Place the dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 40-45 minutes.
– The cake is done when the top is golden brown and edges are bubbly.
– Let it cool for about 10 minutes. This helps it set and makes serving easier.
– Drizzle more caramel on top just before serving for added sweetness.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Your Dump Cake
To get a golden crust, you need to bake it just right. Keep an eye on the time. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes. The top should turn golden brown. The edges will bubble up nicely, too. This shows the cake is ready.
Let the cake cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Cooling helps it set. It makes cutting and serving easier.
Serving Suggestions
This cake tastes amazing with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. The cold cream balances the warm cake. For a special touch, serve in ramekins. Add a pecan half on top for charm. A sprinkle of cinnamon adds a nice touch, too.
Recommended Tools
You will need a few tools for this recipe. An essential baking dish is a must. A 9×13 inch dish works best. You also need a mixing bowl and a spatula. A measuring cup is key for the caramel and butter. Lastly, a whisk can help mix the apple filling evenly.
Pro Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality apple pie filling and caramel sauce for the best flavor. Fresh or homemade options can elevate your dump cake significantly.
- Layering is Key: Ensure that you do not mix the cake mix into the apple filling. This keeps the classic dump cake structure and allows for distinct layers.
- Let It Cool: Allow the cake to cool for at least 10 minutes before serving. This helps it set better, making it easier to serve without falling apart.
- Serving Suggestions: For extra indulgence, serve with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, and consider a sprinkle of cinnamon or a pecan half for garnish.
Variations
Flavor Variants
You can change the taste of your Caramel Apple Dump Cake in fun ways. One easy method is to add spices. Nutmeg or allspice can bring warm, cozy flavors. Just sprinkle in about half a teaspoon when mixing your filling. This small change can make a big impact.
You can also use other fruits. Pears or peaches work well. Just chop them up and mix them with the apple filling. This adds a fruity twist. You can even try berries for a colorful touch. Each fruit brings its own flavor, making your dessert unique.
Dietary Modifications
If you want to make a vegan version, it is simple. Swap the butter for coconut oil or vegan butter. Use a plant-based caramel sauce too. This way, you keep the rich taste without using animal products.
For those with nut allergies, leave out the pecans. You can replace them with seeds like sunflower seeds for extra crunch. This keeps your dump cake safe and still delicious. It’s easy to adapt this recipe to fit your needs!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Caramel Apple Dump Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container. This helps prevent the cake from drying out. You can also cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This dessert stays good in the fridge for about 3 to 5 days. Make sure it cools completely before placing it in the fridge.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze the dump cake if you want it to last longer. First, cut it into serving pieces and place them in freezer-safe bags. Remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. You can freeze the cake for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight. To reheat, warm it in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes. Enjoy your cake warm for the best taste!
FAQs
Common Questions about Caramel Apple Dump Cake
Can I use homemade apple pie filling?
Yes, you can use homemade apple pie filling. Just make sure it is thick and tasty. Fresh apples work great too. This will add a personal touch to your dump cake.
Is there a way to make it less sweet?
You can lower the sweetness. Use less caramel sauce or skip the extra drizzle. You might also want to use unsweetened apple pie filling. This helps balance the flavors.
How long does it last after baking?
Your dump cake will last about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Make sure to cover it well. This keeps it fresh and tasty for your next dessert.
General Dump Cake Inquiries
What is a dump cake?
A dump cake is a simple dessert. You layer ingredients in a dish and bake. It gets its name because you “dump” the layers without mixing them. It’s an easy way to make a sweet treat!
Can I use other types of cake mix?
Yes, you can use different cake mixes. Chocolate, spice, or even lemon mixes work well. Each type adds its own unique flavor to the dump cake.
How to fix a runny dump cake?
If your dump cake is runny, you can bake it a bit longer. This helps the top become firmer. Also, try adding more dry cake mix next time to absorb extra liquid.
In this article, we explored the easy steps to make a delicious caramel apple dump cake. You learned about the key ingredients, helpful tips, and creative variations to consider. Remember to have fun with this recipe and make it your own. Whether you serve it warm with ice cream or chill it for later, this dessert will surely please. Enjoy your baking adventure and share this treat with friends and famil
Caramel Apple Delight Dump Cake
A delicious and easy dessert featuring layers of apple pie filling, caramel, and cake mix, topped with butter and optional pecans.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 40 minutes mins
Total Time 55 minutes mins
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
- 42 oz apple pie filling
- 1 cup caramel sauce, plus extra for drizzle
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 15.25 oz yellow cake mix
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- serving whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for serving
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the apple pie filling, caramel sauce, and ground cinnamon. Stir until the apples are fully coated in the delicious caramel mixture for a well-balanced flavor.
Once mixed, carefully pour the apple filling into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly to create an even layer.
Next, take the dry yellow cake mix and sprinkle it evenly over the apple mixture. Make sure not to stir or mix it; this will help maintain the distinct layers characteristic of a dump cake.
Drizzle the melted butter generously over the top of the cake mix, allowing the butter to soak into the mix without disturbing the layers.
If you’re using pecans, sprinkle them evenly over the melted butter for an added crunch that complements the softness of the cake.
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. The dump cake is done when the top is beautifully golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
Once baked, allow the cake to cool for about 10 minutes. This will help it set nicely and be easier to serve. Just before serving, drizzle additional caramel sauce on top for an extra touch of sweetness.
Serve your Caramel Apple Delight Dump Cake warm, with a dollop of fluffy whipped cream or a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside for an indulgent dessert experience.
To elevate the presentation, consider serving the cake in individual ramekins topped with a pecan half and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a charming touch.
Keyword apple dessert, caramel, dump cake
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