Meta Description: This Apple Pie Dump Cake recipe is the ultimate easy dessert! With just 5 ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a warm, gooey, and delicious treat that tastes like homemade apple pie. Perfect for busy days or last-minute guests!
If you love the warm, comforting flavors of apple pie but don’t have the time or energy to make one from scratch, this Apple Pie Dump Cake is your new best friend. With just a handful of ingredients and almost no prep work, this dessert is as easy as it gets.
The name says it all—dump everything into a baking dish, pop it in the oven, and let the magic happen. The result is a gooey, cinnamon-spiced apple filling topped with a golden, buttery cake crust. It’s the perfect dessert for busy weeknights, potlucks, or holiday gatherings.
Let’s dive into this simple yet irresistible recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Apple Pie Dump Cake:
- 2 cans (21 oz each) apple pie filling (or homemade if preferred)
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix (or spice cake mix for extra flavor)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional, for extra warmth)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for crunch)
Instructions
Follow these easy steps to create your Apple Pie Dump Cake:
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. - Layer the Apple Pie Filling:
Spread both cans of apple pie filling evenly across the bottom of the baking dish. Sprinkle the cinnamon and nutmeg (if using) over the apples for extra flavor. - Add the Cake Mix:
Evenly sprinkle the dry cake mix over the apple pie filling. Do not stir—this creates the perfect layered texture. - Drizzle with Butter:
Pour the melted butter evenly over the cake mix, covering as much of the surface as possible. This will help the cake mix bake into a golden, crumbly topping. - Add Optional Toppings:
If using nuts, sprinkle the chopped pecans or walnuts over the top for added crunch and flavor. - Bake to Perfection:
Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly. - Serve and Enjoy:
Let the dump cake cool for 10-15 minutes before serving. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for the ultimate treat.
Cook Notes and Variations
- Spice It Up: Use spice cake mix instead of yellow cake mix for an extra layer of warmth and flavor.
- Homemade Apple Filling: If you prefer, make your own apple pie filling using fresh apples, sugar, cinnamon, and a splash of lemon juice.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free cake mix to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Add Raisins or Cranberries: Mix in a handful of raisins or dried cranberries with the apple pie filling for a fruity twist.
Keto-Friendly and Low-Carb Versions
For those following a keto or low-carb diet, here’s how to adapt this recipe:
Keto Version:
- Replace the apple pie filling with sugar-free apple pie filling (made with low-carb sweeteners like erythritol or monk fruit).
- Use a keto-friendly cake mix or almond flour-based topping.
- Substitute the butter with ghee or coconut oil.
Low-Carb Version:
- Use low-sugar apple pie filling and a low-carb cake mix.
- Reduce the amount of cake mix and butter to lower the calorie count.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use fresh apples instead of canned pie filling?
Yes! Simply peel and slice 4-5 medium apples, toss them with 1/2 cup sugar, 1 tsp cinnamon, and 1 tbsp lemon juice, and use this mixture as your filling.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover dump cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
3. Can I freeze this dump cake?
Yes! Wrap the cooled dump cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
4. What other fruit fillings can I use?
This recipe works well with cherry, peach, or blueberry pie filling. Feel free to experiment with your favorite fruits!
5. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Layer the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours or until the topping is set and the filling is bubbly.
This Apple Pie Dump Cake is proof that delicious desserts don’t have to be complicated. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a dessert that tastes like it took hours to make.
Whether you’re serving it at a party, enjoying it as a weeknight treat, or adapting it to fit your dietary needs, this dump cake is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. So, grab your ingredients, dump them together, and get ready to enjoy a slice of warm, comforting heaven
