Apple Dump Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon-spiced apples with a buttery cake topping, all baked into a golden, gooey masterpiece. This easy-to-make dessert is perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or simply enjoying at home after dinner. With minimal prep time and just a few ingredients, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Apple Dump Cake is not just about ease; it’s about flavor too! The combination of sweet, tart apples and a hint of cinnamon creates a mouthwatering base, while the cake layer adds a delightful texture that’s crisp on top and soft below. It fits perfectly into a busy lifestyle, requiring only a few minutes of prep time before it goes into the oven. Whether you’re following a casual or a more health-conscious lifestyle, this dessert can easily be adapted to meet various dietary needs, making it a versatile addition to any occasion.
Tips and Tricks
To elevate your Apple Dump Cake, consider these tips:
- Use a mix of apple varieties for a more complex flavor profile. Granny Smith for tartness and Honeycrisp for sweetness create a perfect balance.
- Sprinkle some chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, on top of the cake mix for added crunch and flavor.
- For a caramel twist, drizzle some caramel sauce over the top before serving or mix it into the apples for an extra layer of sweetness.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for that classic dessert experience.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the apple filling in advance—just peel, slice, and toss the apples with sugar and cinnamon, then store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. The dry cake mix can also be measured out and stored in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, simply assemble the ingredients and pop it in the oven.
Recipe Variations
- Spiced Apple Dump Cake: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the apple mixture for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Caramel Apple Dump Cake: Stir in some caramel sauce with the apples or drizzle it over the top after baking.
- Peach Dump Cake: Swap out the apples for fresh or canned peaches for a summery twist.
- Chocolate Chip Dump Cake: Add chocolate chips to the cake mix for a richer flavor profile.
How to Serve
Serve your Apple Dump Cake warm, directly from the oven, for the best experience. A generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top will take it to the next level. For presentation, consider serving it in individual ramekins or bowls, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few apple slices to enhance visual appeal.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair your Apple Dump Cake with a warm cup of chai tea or a glass of chilled white wine, such as Riesling, which complements the sweetness beautifully. For a cozy evening, serve it alongside a cappuccino or a spiced apple cider, creating a delightful dessert experience.
How to Store
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm in the oven for 15-20 minutes at 350°F, or microwave for a quick fix.
Equipment Needed
- 9×13 inch baking dish (or any similar size)
- Mixing bowls for combining ingredients
- A sharp knife and cutting board for slicing apples
- Measuring cups and spoons for accurate ingredient measurement
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe vegan, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative, and use a vegan cake mix. For a dairy-free version, ensure your cake mix contains no dairy ingredients, and use almond or oat milk for any additional liquid. If nut allergies are a concern, simply leave out any nuts or opt for seeds instead.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the fall, use freshly harvested apples for the best flavor. In the summer, consider using peaches or berries instead of apples for a refreshing twist, or mix in seasonal fruits like pears or cherries for variety.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use canned apples? Yes, canned apples can be used, but be sure to drain them well to avoid excess moisture.
- What type of cake mix is best? A yellow or vanilla cake mix works best for a classic flavor, but feel free to experiment with other flavors!
- How long does it take to bake? Typically, it takes about 45-50 minutes at 350°F, but always check for doneness with a toothpick.
Apple Dump Cake
Apple Dump Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon-spiced apples with a buttery cake topping, all baked into a golden, gooey masterpiece.
Ingredients
- 4 cups sliced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- Optional: nuts (walnuts or pecans), caramel sauce
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, and cinnamon. Mix until the apples are well-coated.
- Spread the apple mixture evenly in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Evenly sprinkle the dry cake mix over the apples, ensuring full coverage.
- Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the cake mix, making sure to cover as much as possible.
- If desired, sprinkle with nuts for added texture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the apples are bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition Information
Yield
12Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 406Total Fat 18gSaturated Fat 10gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 6gCholesterol 41mgSodium 339mgCarbohydrates 60gFiber 2gSugar 42gProtein 2g
TastyFitnessRecipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although tastyfitnessrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Making Apple Dump Cake is not only simple but also a delightful way to bring comfort and joy to your table. Whether you’re sharing it with friends at a gathering or enjoying it solo with a cup of coffee, this dessert is bound to bring back comforting memories and create new ones. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to indulge in this sweet, scrumptious delight!