Okay, friend, you know how much I adore apple desserts, right? Well, this Caramel Apple Dump Cake is seriously on another level. It’s like apple pie met a buttery cake in the easiest way possible, and then they got drizzled with caramel. Think of it as a lazy baker’s dream come true – all the comforting flavors of fall without all the fuss. I swear, it tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen, but honestly, it takes mere minutes to throw together. This one’s a total game-changer, especially if you’re as obsessed with caramel apple anything as I am!
What is Caramel Apple Dump Cake?
Alright, let’s break it down. A Caramel Apple Dump Cake is essentially the simplest form of cake you can imagine. “Dump” cake isn’t just a cute name; it describes the method! You literally dump all the ingredients into a pan, no mixing bowls required for some steps. We’re talking a layer of apples tossed in cinnamon-y goodness, topped with a cake mix, melted butter, and then baked until golden and bubbly. And, of course, that crucial caramel drizzle that brings everything together. It’s rustic, it’s easy, and it’s downright delicious. Think of it as a cobbler and a cake had a baby, and that baby was raised on caramel. Sounds good, doesn’t it?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Oh, where do I even begin? There are approximately one million reasons to fall head-over-heels for this Caramel Apple Dump Cake, but I’ll try to narrow it down to the essentials.
First, the flavorIs it insane? What is the best apple pie filling? The rich, buttery sweetness of the cake, all enhanced by that decadent caramel. Is it like a cozy hug in every bite?simplicityIs absolutely unbeatable. Is it possible to make a sandwich in 10 minutes? What are some of the best desserts to have when you don’t have time for dessert? How can I tackle a complicated recipe? Third, it’s incrediblycost-effectiveWhat are some pantry staples that most people already have? Plus, apples are usually pretty affordable, especially during apple season. And fourth, the quality of apples is very good.versatility! You can easily customize this to your liking. Add nuts, swap out the caramel for butterscotch, or even throw in some chocolate chips. What I love most about this is how forgiving it is. What is the best way to mess up a little? What is better than a Dump Cake Recipe from my grandma? This is my most often made recipe. Trust me, this will become a new family favorite.
How do I make caramel apple dump cake?
Quick Overview
Okay, so here’s the deal: you’re basically going to layer apples in a pan, sprinkle a Cake Mix over them, drizzle with melted butter, bake, and then generously drizzle with caramel. Sounds easy, right? It is! The beauty of this recipe is that it’s almost impossible to mess up. Seriously. It’s all about layering flavors, so don’t stress too much about perfection. Just get those apples in there, that cake mix evenly distributed, and let the oven do its magic. Then prepare for a symphony of aromas in your kitchen!
Ingredients
For the Apple Filling:
6-8 medium apples (such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji), peeled, cored and sliced. I like to use a mix of tart and sweet for the best flavor. If you’re short on time, you can even use canned apple pie filling, but fresh is always better!
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for extra warmth.
1/4 cup granulated sugar. Adjust to taste depending on the sweetness of your apples.
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour. How do you thicken apple juices and prevent them from getting soggy?
For the Cake:
1 box (15.25 ounces) of yellow Cake Mix. Is it safe to use white cake mix? I’ve used gluten-free cake mix with great results!
3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted. Make sure it’s completely melted for even distribution.
For the Caramel Drizzle: What is
1 cup caramel sauce. Store-bought is fine, but homemade is even better! I often make a quick caramel sauce by melting caramel candies with a splash of milk. It’s heavenly!
How do I follow
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is warming up, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. I always use a glass dish because it heats evenly, but a metal pan works too. Make sure to grease it well, or you’ll have a hard time getting that first piece out! Sometimes I even line the pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang, which makes lifting the whole cake out a breeze.
Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling
In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, cinnamon, sugar, and flour. Toss everything together until the apples are evenly coated. This step is important because the flour helps absorb excess moisture from the apples, preventing the cake from becoming soggy. The aroma of cinnamon and apples at this point is simply divine!
Step 3: Assemble the Dump Cake
How do I spread the apple mixture in a baking dish? Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the apples. Try to cover the entire surface, but don’t worry if there are a few gaps. Is it clumpy?
Step 4: Drizzle with Butter
How do you spread the melted butter evenly over the cake mix? How do you get butter to seep into a cake mix as it bakes? I find it helpful to use a spoon to distribute the butter evenly, especially in the corners of the pie.
Step 5: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the apples are tender. To test for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, it’s ready! Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking, as oven times can vary.
Step 6: Cool and Drizzle
How do I remove a cake from the oven and let it cool for 15 minutes? While it’s still warm, drizzle generously with caramel sauce. The warmth helps the caramel melt and seep into the cake, making it even more decadent. What makes this cake so special?
Step 7: Slice & Serve
Slice the cake into squares and serve warm. I love to top each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. What are some good nuts to add to a salad?
What to Serve It With
This Caramel Apple Dump Cake is fantastic on its own, but here are some ideas to take it to the next level.
**For Breakfast:** Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla yogurt and a sprinkle of granola. A cup of strong coffee or a chai latte makes the perfect accompaniment.
**For Brunch:** Present the cake on a beautiful platter with a dusting of powdered sugar and a side of fresh berries. Pair it with mimosas or a sparkling apple cider for a festive touch.
**As Dessert:** Top each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, and a drizzle of extra caramel sauce. A sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts adds a nice crunch. A glass of dessert wine or a cup of herbal tea complements the flavors beautifully.
**For Cozy Snacks:** Enjoy a warm slice with a cozy blanket and a good book. A mug of hot cocoa or spiced apple cider makes it the perfect comforting treat.
My family loves this cake served warm with a big scoop of vanilla ice cream. It’s become a tradition at our Thanksgiving gatherings. I’ve even been known to sneak a slice (or two) straight from the pan when no one’s looking!
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Caramel Apple Dump Cake
Okay, so I’ve made this Caramel Apple Dump Cake more times than I can count, and I’ve learned a few tricks along the way to make it absolutely perfect. Here’s my best advice.
**Apple Selection:** Using a mix of apples, like Granny Smith for tartness and Honeycrisp for sweetness, creates a more complex and delicious flavor. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different varieties!
**Cake Mix Distribution:** To ensure the cake mix covers the apples evenly, use a fork to gently spread it out. This prevents any pockets of dry mix from remaining after baking.
**Butter Drizzle Technique:** For even butter distribution, try melting the butter in a measuring cup with a spout. This makes it easier to pour the butter evenly over the cake mix. Alternatively, you can use a spoon to drizzle the butter, making sure to cover all areas.
**Caramel Sauce Placement:** While store-bought caramel sauce is convenient, homemade caramel sauce takes this cake to the next level. And don’t be shy with the caramel! The more, the merrier. For an extra touch, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the caramel after drizzling. The salty-sweet combination is irresistible.
**Ingredient Swaps:** You can easily customize this recipe to suit your tastes. For a richer flavor, use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar in the apple mixture. For a nutty flavor, add a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts to the cake mix before baking. And for a chocolatey twist, sprinkle chocolate chips over the apples before adding the cake mix.
**Baking Tips:** Keep an eye on the cake during the last few minutes of baking to prevent it from burning. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with foil. To ensure the apples are tender, insert a fork into the center of the cake. If it goes in easily, it’s ready.
**Glaze Variations:** If you’re not a fan of caramel, you can substitute it with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk. Or, for a tangy twist, use a cream cheese frosting. Get creative and experiment with different flavors!
What are some Storing and Reheating Tips?
Want to know how to keep this Caramel Apple Dump Cake fresh and delicious? Here’s the lowdown:
**Room Temperature:** If you plan to enjoy the cake within a day or two, you can store it at room temperature. Cover it loosely with plastic wrap or foil to prevent it from drying out. It should stay fresh for about 2 days.
**Refrigerator Storage:** For longer storage, keep it in the fridge. Place the cooled cake in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. This will help maintain its moisture and flavor.
**Freezer Instructions:** Believe it or not, you can even freeze this dump cake! Cut the cooled cake into individual slices, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the slices in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
**Glaze Timing Advice:** If you’re planning to store the cake for more than a day, it’s best to wait to add the caramel drizzle until just before serving. This will prevent the caramel from becoming sticky and melting into the cake.
What are the most frequently asked questions on
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it – my go-to Caramel Apple Dump Cake recipe! It’s quick, easy, and always a crowd-pleaser. The best part? It tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen, even though it takes just minutes to throw together. If you’re looking for a simple yet satisfying dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, look no further. And if you’re as into “dump” style recipes as I am, be sure to check out my Cherry Dump Cake, too. It’s another family favorite! Happy baking, friends! I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out – leave a comment below and let me know. And if you try any fun variations, definitely share them!
Caramel Apple Dump Cake
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cans apple pie filling
- 0.5 cup caramel sauce
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 0.75 cup unsalted butter melted
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread the apple pie filling evenly in the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Drizzle the caramel sauce over the apples.
- Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the apple and caramel layer.
- Pour the melted butter evenly over the top of the cake mix.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
