Okay, picture this: It’s a crisp autumn evening, the leaves are turning all sorts of crazy colors, and you’re craving something warm and comforting. That’s where this super easy apple dump cake comes in! As you probably know, I’m Riley, and I’m all about simple recipes that taste like you spent hours in the kitchen. And trust me, this one is a winner!
This apple dump cake? It’s ridiculously easy. We’re talking pantry staples, folks. Seriously. I first tried an apple dump cake years ago at a potluck, and I was hooked. I mean, apples, cake, what’s not to love? I’ve tweaked it over the years, and now it’s a total family favorite. The best part? Even if you’re not a baker, you can totally nail this. It’s basically foolproof! So, if you’re looking for a simple apple dessert that’ll wow everyone, this apple dump cake recipe is it!
Why You’ll Love This Apple Dump Cake
Seriously, you’re gonna be obsessed with this apple dump cake! Here’s why:
Quick & Easy
I mean, come on, who doesn’t love a super speedy dessert? This is about as easy as it gets!
Minimal Ingredients
Pantry staples, baby! You probably have everything you need already. How great is that?
Delicious Apple Flavor
That warm, comforting apple taste? It’s like a hug in a cake. You just can’t beat it!
Ingredients for Your Apple Dump Cake
Alright, let’s gather our goodies! Here’s what you’ll need. Don’t worry, it’s a short list!
- 1 (15 ounce) can apple pie filling – Trust me, this makes it SO easy!
- 1 (18.25 ounce) box yellow cake mix – Any brand works, so use your fave.
- ¾ cup butter, melted – Gotta have that buttery goodness!
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional) – I love the crunch, but totally up to you!
- Cream cheese frosting for topping (optional) – Because, well, cream cheese frosting!
How to Make Apple Dump Cake: Step-by-Step Instructions
Okay, here’s the lowdown on how to make this crazy easy apple dump cake! Follow these steps, and you’ll be golden. Trust me, if I can do it, you can definitely do it!
Preparing the Apple Filling Base
First things first, let’s get that oven preheating to 350°F (175°C). Then, grab your trusty 9×13 inch baking dish and just dump that whole can of apple pie filling right into the bottom. Spread it out nice and even, you know?
Adding the Cake Mix Layer
Next, sprinkle that dry yellow cake mix evenly over the apple pie filling. Try to get it all covered! Don’t worry if it’s not perfect; we’re going for rustic charm here, not a baking competition! Seriously, just sprinkle it!
Pouring the Butter and Adding Optional Nuts
Now, for the good stuff: melted butter! Pour that melted butter evenly over the cake mix. This is key! You wanna make sure all that dry cake mix gets soaked. Then, if you’re feeling fancy (and I usually am!), sprinkle those chopped pecans or walnuts on top.
Baking Your Apple Dump Cake
Alright, into the oven it goes! Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and bubbly. You’ll know it’s ready when it looks all caramelly and delicious. Keep an eye on it – ovens can be tricky!
Tips for the Best Apple Dump Cake
Want to make your apple dump cake *extra* amazing? I’ve got a few tricks up my sleeve!
Achieving the Perfect Golden Brown
Keep an eye on it! You want that topping to be a beautiful golden brown. If it’s getting too dark, just tent it with foil.
Preventing a Soggy Bottom
Make sure that melted butter is evenly distributed. Seriously, don’t skimp! That’s the key to a perfectly cooked cake.
Enhancing the Apple Flavor
A little sprinkle of cinnamon or a splash of vanilla extract can really take this over the top. Trust me, it’s worth it! For more baking tips, check out these easy cake recipes.
Apple Dump Cake Variations to Try
Okay, so you’ve got the basic apple dump cake down? Awesome! Now, let’s get a little crazy and try some fun variations! I love experimenting, and you should too!
Apple Crumble Dump Cake
Wanna add some extra crunch? Just whip up a quick crumble topping with flour, butter, and sugar. Sprinkle it on top before baking for a super satisfying texture!
Apple Dump Cake with Cream Cheese
Oh, cream cheese, how I love thee! Swirl some softened cream cheese into the apple filling or spread a layer of cream cheese frosting on top after baking. SO good! You might also like these cream cheese appetizer recipes.
Spiced Apple Dump Cake
Feeling festive? Toss in a teaspoon of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves (or all three!). It’ll make your kitchen smell amazing and add a warm, cozy vibe to your cake.
Serving Suggestions for Your Delicious Apple Dump Cake
Okay, so you’ve got this amazing apple dump cake fresh out of the oven. Now what? Well, here are a few of my fave ways to serve it up and make it even *more* irresistible!
Honestly, you just can’t go wrong with a big scoop of vanilla ice cream melting all over a warm slice. Or, if you’re feeling fancy, a dollop of whipped cream works wonders too! Just sayin’!
Storing and Reheating Your Apple Dump Cake
Got leftovers? Lucky you! This apple dump cake is just as good (maybe even better!) the next day. Just pop it in the fridge, covered, for up to 3 days. When you’re ready for another slice, a quick zap in the microwave will warm it right up. Or, for a crispier top, try a few minutes in a warm oven! For more tips on reheating, you can check out this guide on reheating hacks.
Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Dump Cake
Got questions about this easy apple dessert? Don’t worry, I’ve got answers! Here are some of the most common questions I get about my apple dump cake recipe.
Can I use a different type of cake mix for this apple dump cake recipe?
Totally! While I usually go for yellow cake mix (it’s a classic!), you can definitely experiment. Spice cake mix or even white cake mix work great. Just have fun with it!
How do I prevent my apple dump cake from being soggy?
Ah, the dreaded soggy bottom! The key is to make sure you’re distributing that melted butter evenly over the dry cake mix. Also, don’t overbake it! You want it golden brown, not swimming in apple juice.
Can I freeze apple dump cake?
You betcha! Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It’ll keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat it, just thaw it overnight in the fridge and warm it up. Easy peasy!
Nutritional Information
Okay, so here’s the deal: I’m not a nutritionist, so I can’t give you exact numbers. But just keep in mind that the nutrition info will vary depending on the brands and ingredients you use, okay?
Ready to Bake Your Apple Dump Cake?
Woohoo! You’ve got all the secrets to making the *best* apple dump cake ever! Now, go get your bake on! And hey, if you loved this easy apple dump cake recipe, leave a comment below and let me know what you think! Don’t forget to rate the recipe and share it with your friends – sharing is caring, right?
PrintEasiest Apple Dump Cake Recipe Ever: Simply Divine
This easy apple dump cake recipe is a simple and delicious dessert perfect for any occasion. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can have a warm, comforting apple dessert ready in no time.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 (15 ounce) can apple pie filling
- 1 (18.25 ounce) box yellow cake mix
- ¾ cup butter, melted
- Optional: ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- Optional: Cream cheese frosting for topping
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Pour apple pie filling into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle dry cake mix evenly over the apple pie filling.
- Pour melted butter evenly over the cake mix.
- Optional: Sprinkle chopped nuts over the top.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
- Optional: Top with cream cheese frosting.
Notes
- For a crispier topping, broil for the last 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
- You can substitute other fruit pie fillings, such as cherry or blueberry.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg