Caramel Apple Dump Cake

Caramel apple dump cake is that magic dessert you whip up when you want cozy nostalgia and minimal effort but maximum payoff It is become my quick answer for autumn cravings or potluck invitations The edges caramelize perfectly and your house fills with the smell of baked apples in no time at all

One fall weekend my kids helped layer all the ingredients and we ended up creating a new family tradition Now they look forward to baking this dump cake every apple season

Ingredients

• Fresh apples: Bring a tart bite and juicy texture Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are best Choose fruit that feels firm with no bruises
• Granulated sugar: Draws out the apple juices and sweetens them Look for pure cane sugar for best flavor
• Cinnamon (optional): Highly recommended for warmth Pick a fresh spice for the strongest aroma
• Lemon juice: Brightens the apples and prevents browning Use freshly squeezed lemon for pure flavor
• Canned apple pie filling: A fast shortcut when time is tight Choose a brand with real apple chunks and minimal corn syrup
• Caramel sauce: For classic richness Use jarred or homemade with real butter for depth
• Yellow cake mix: The tender sweet top layer Look for one with real vanilla notes if possible
• Unsalted butter, melted: For rich browning pick European style for an extra creamy finish
• Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional): Wonderful for nutty crunch Toast them lightly for best results
• Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream: Extra indulgence for serving Pick real vanilla or homemade if you can

Instructions

Prepare the Equipment:

Set your oven to 350 F 175 C and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish Spread a thin layer of butter for best nonstick results

Slice and Layer the Apples:

If using fresh apples peel core and slice them evenly Toss slices gently with granulated sugar cinnamon and lemon juice in a large bowl Arrange them in an even layer in the baking dish You want the edges touching for even baking

Layer Canned Apples if Using:

Pour the canned apple pie filling straight into the dish and spread out to create an even foundation This makes a gooey base that holds the caramel perfectly

Add the Caramel Drizzle:

Slowly pour caramel sauce over every inch of the apple layer Take time to drizzle along the edges and corners for full coverage If you like extra spice shake a little cinnamon on top

Cake Mix Topping:

Sprinkle dry yellow cake mix evenly across the caramel and apples Some like to use half the mix at the base and half on top for more layers but either way works Make sure every apple is covered so the cake bakes evenly

Butter Blanket:

Pour melted butter as evenly as possible over the cake mix Try for swooping motions that spread the butter without disturbing the mix If you like you can dot with slices of cold butter instead

Nut Crunch Option:

Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts across the surface At this stage the nuts will toast and deepen their flavor as the cake bakes

Bake to Perfection:

Slide the dish into the preheated oven and bake for forty five to fifty minutes Watch for a deep golden top and bubbling edges which mean the apples are tender

Cool and Serve:

Rest the cake for at least ten minutes after baking Scoop portions while still warm and top with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream The cold and hot contrast is unbeatable

The buttery caramel layer is my favorite part One year my grandma used an extra drizzle on her slice and I realized you can never have too much caramel on apple desserts It is the thing my family debates about every Thanksgiving

Storage Tips

For best texture cover the cooled cake well and refrigerate Leftovers stay fresh for about three days in the fridge If you want to reheat bake uncovered at 325 F until it smells warm again or microwave individual portions

Ingredient Substitutions

No yellow cake mix Use spice cake or vanilla cake mix for a twist You can swap pecans for almonds or leave out nuts entirely If you need it gluten free grab a certified gluten free cake mix and double check your caramel sauce

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dump cake warm with a big scoop of vanilla ice cream or a swirl of fresh whipped cream Sometimes I serve it at brunch with a dollop of Greek yogurt If you want extra crunch a sprinkle of granola over the top is great

Cultural and Seasonal Context

Dump cakes are classic American shortcut desserts popular since the 1970s This one is especially beloved at fall gatherings when apples are abundant I always associate the smell of cinnamon apples with starting the holiday season

Seasonal Adaptations

Fresh pears can replace apples for a lighter spring version

Try pumpkin pie filling and caramel for a Thanksgiving spin

Add dried cranberries for a tart flavor pop during the holidays

Success Stories

Once I brought this to my neighbor’s block party hoping for leftovers The dish disappeared before dessert was over and several people stopped me for the recipe It is amazing how a throw together cake can steal the show

Freezer Meal Conversion

Let the baked dump cake cool fully Wrap portions tightly in foil and freeze up to two months To serve defrost in the fridge and reheat covered in a low oven until bubbling Serve with ice cream for a perfect last minute treat

This simple apple dessert always starts cozy conversations and smells like autumn no matter the time of year Give it a try and let your family create their own sweet memories

Recipe Q&A

→ What type of apples works best?

Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are ideal for their tartness and ability to hold shape during baking.

→ Can canned apple filling be used?

Yes, canned apple pie filling is a quick option. Just spread it in the baking dish before the caramel.

→ Is homemade caramel necessary?

No, store-bought caramel sauce works well and saves time, but homemade adds a personal touch if desired.

→ How do I get an even buttery topping?

Drizzling melted butter or layering thin slices over the cake mix helps distribute the richness evenly.

→ Can this dessert be served cold?

It's best enjoyed warm, but it's still tasty at room temperature. Reheat for the best texture.

→ Are nuts required?

Nuts add crunch and flavor but can be omitted for allergies or personal preference.