There’s something incredibly comforting about a dessert that reminds you of childhood sweet treats, and that’s exactly what my Caramel Apple Dump Cake does for me! Growing up, my Mom would make it every fall, filling the house with the delicious aroma of cinnamon and caramel mingling in the oven. Every family gathering, friends popping by, or cozy night in called for this, and I can’t remember a single time anyone left without asking for the recipe. So here I am, excited to share this little piece of my past with you!
What makes this dump cake so special is how ridiculously simple it is to make—no fancy techniques or complicated steps. You pretty much dump a few ingredients together, and in no time, you have a warm, gooey dessert that’s perfect for sharing (or for hiding in the fridge for yourself—it’s that good!). Now, let’s get to the delicious details!
What’s in Caramel Apple Dump Cake?
Apple Pie Filling: This is the star of our dessert! I love using a good-quality canned apple pie filling for convenience, but if you’re feeling adventurous, homemade is even better!
Yellow Cake Mix: This is the magical base that holds everything together. The cake mix gives it that lovely texture, and it’s available in almost any grocery store. I usually grab whatever is on sale, but my go-to is Betty Crocker.
Ground Cinnamon: Just a sprinkle of this spice adds an extra depth of flavor—think warm, cozy aromas reminiscent of fall. A must-have in any apple dish!
Caramel Sauce: The drizzle that makes this dessert special! You can either make your own or use a store-bought one. I’ve had great success with the Smucker’s Caramel Sauce.
Butter: It wouldn’t be a dump cake without some butter to create that irresistible golden crust. I use unsalted butter so I can control the saltiness of the cake.
Is Caramel Apple Dump Cake Good for You?
Alright, full disclosure: this isn’t a health food, but it does bring a ton of joy! Here’s a little breakdown of the ingredients’ benefits and considerations:
Apple Pie Filling: Apples are a good source of fiber and Vitamin C. Just remember that the canned versions can have added sugars, so check that label!
Yellow Cake Mix: Traditional cake mix isn’t exactly a powerhouse of nutrients, but it does provide quick energy for those sweet cravings. Opting for a gluten-free version can also work if you have dietary restrictions.
Cinnamon: This charming spice not only adds flavor but also has antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Plus, the smell makes everything feel like a hug!
Caramel Sauce: Let’s be honest, caramel is not what we consider a “superfood,” but it does bring the sweetness! Just use it in moderation, and it’ll elevate your dessert.
So, while it isn’t the healthiest option out there, it’s certainly delightful for a special occasion!
Ingredients List
– 1 can (21 oz) apple pie filling
– 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1 cup caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
– Serves about 8
How to Make Caramel Apple Dump Cake?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Trust me, you want that warm oven for a beautiful bake!
2. In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spread the apple pie filling evenly across the bottom.
3. Sprinkle the cake mix evenly over the apple pie filling. No stirring needed; we want those layers!
4. The cinnamon goes next! Just sprinkle it all over the cake mix like fairy dust.
5. Now, drizzle the caramel sauce generously over the top of the cake mix. Don’t be shy with it—this is the good stuff!
6. Finally, pour the melted butter evenly across the entire surface, covering as much of the cake mix as possible.
7. Pop your baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
8. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. I highly recommend serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!
Sweet Tips for Your Sweet Treat
– If you love it super gooey, adjust the baking time! Check at 30 minutes if you want to see a more puddly consistency.
– Feel free to mix in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture!
– Want to switch it up? Try using different pie fillings like cherry or berry—just remember to adjust the spices accordingly.
– It’s fantastic for parties—make it ahead of time and reheat just before serving!
I truly hope you give this Caramel Apple Dump Cake a try! There’s nothing better than pulling this warm, caramel-drizzled goodness from the oven and indulging in it with family and friends. So invite a few people over, or just treat yourself—you deserve it! I’m excited to hear how yours turns out!
