Apple Pie Dump Cake is a super easy treat that combines sweet apple filling with a crumbly cake topping. Just dump the ingredients in and let the oven do the work!
The best part? You get the warm flavors of apple pie without all the fuss. It’s perfect for cozy nights when you want something yummy and simple. Who doesn’t love dessert that practically makes itself? 🍏🍰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: A mix of tart and sweet apples works best. I love using Granny Smith for tartness and Fuji for sweetness, but Honeycrisp, Braeburn, or Jonagold are also great choices. If fresh apples aren’t available, canned apple pie filling can be a good shortcut.
Granulated Sugar: You can reduce the sugar if you prefer less sweetness or substitute with brown sugar for a deeper flavor. Honey or maple syrup can be used, but you might need to adjust the liquid slightly.
Cake Mix: While yellow cake mix is traditional, you can use white or spice cake mix if you prefer. Gluten-free cake mix is a great alternative if you’re avoiding gluten.
Nuts: I love adding pecans or walnuts for a crunch, but if you have nut allergies, you can leave them out completely or substitute with oats for texture.
How Do I Ensure My Apples Are Perfectly Cooked?
The key to perfectly cooked apples is to slice them evenly and choose the right variety. Make sure to peel them so they soften nicely. When they are layered under the cake mix, they’ll cook down, absorbing flavors while providing a tender texture.
- Slice apples about 1/4 inch thick to help them cook evenly.
- Toss them in sugar and cinnamon to enhance the flavor before baking.
- Cover the dish with foil for the first 30 minutes to help trap steam, then remove it to let the top crisp up.
How to Make Apple Pie Dump Cake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Apple Layer:
- 6 cups peeled and sliced apples (about 5-6 medium apples; a mix of tart like Granny Smith and sweet like Fuji works well)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Dump Cake Layer:
- 1 box (about 15.25 oz) yellow cake mix (dry)
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts), optional
For Serving:
- Vanilla ice cream, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Apple Pie Dump Cake takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 45-55 minutes of baking time. You’ll have it in the oven in no time, and then just let it cool a bit before enjoying it warm!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Make sure to grease a 9×13 inch baking dish so nothing sticks.
2. Prepare the Apples:
In a large bowl, toss your sliced apples with the granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and vanilla extract. Mix it all together until the apples are well coated. This will make them sweet and flavorful!
3. Layer the Apples:
Spread the delicious apple mixture evenly in the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Make sure it’s spread out nicely.
4. Add the Cake Mix:
Now, sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the apples. Don’t mix it with the apples; just let it sit on top. It will absorb all the yummy flavors as it bakes!
5. Add Nuts (Optional):
If you like a little crunch, sprinkle the chopped nuts over the cake mix. If not, just skip this step!
6. Drizzle the Butter:
Pour the melted butter evenly over the top of the cake mix and nuts. This will create a nice, golden crust as it bakes.
7. Bake and Enjoy:
Place the baking dish in the oven and let it bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the apples are bubbly and tender. Keep an eye on it towards the end to avoid over-browning.
8. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s done, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve it warm on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat!
This Apple Pie Dump Cake offers the comforting flavors of classic apple pie with a simple cake topping. It’s easy to make and sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy your sweet and satisfying dessert!
Can I Use Different Apples for This Recipe?
Absolutely! A mix of tart and sweet apples is ideal. Granny Smith and Fuji work well together, but Honeycrisp, Braeburn, or Jonagold can also add great flavor and texture.
Can I Make This Dump Cake Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply use a gluten-free cake mix instead of the traditional yellow cake mix. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through. It’s great served warm!
How Can I Customize the Flavor?
You can customize the spices by adding a pinch of ginger or clove to the apple mixture, or you can add a splash of lemon juice for extra brightness. Experiment to find your favorite combo!
