Whenever I think of quick and easy desserts that bring smiles to my family’s faces, apple dump cake springs to mind. It’s the kind of fuss-free recipe that feels like a loving hug with every bite. Just a few simple ingredients and you’ll have a warm, delectable treat that’s perfect for any occasion. The best part? Your kitchen will be filled with the delightful aroma of apples and buttery cake. Trust me, it’s a dessert that’ll quickly become a family favorite. Looking for another easy breakfast idea? Check out our crescent roll breakfast recipes .
Why you’ll love this recipe
I remember one rainy Sunday when our plans were canceled, and I decided to bake apple dump cake with my kids. We had a blast spreading the ingredients and waiting patiently as the cake turned golden and crispy. It’s not only easy but also incredibly comforting. Plus, with minimal prep time, it means more moments to cherish with the family and less time fussing around in the kitchen. It’s just perfect for those cozy family gatherings or when you just want a quick dessert fix without any hassle.
Ingredients
- 2 (about 21-ounce) cans apple pie filling
- 1 (15.25-ounce) box yellow or spice cake mix
- 1 1/2 sticks (6 ounces) cold unsalted butter, plus more for the baking dish
- Vanilla ice cream, for serving (optional)
Step-by-step instructions
Place a rack in the center of the oven and preheat it to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with unsalted butter. This helps the cake come out easily after baking.
Spread the two cans of apple pie filling evenly in the baking dish. This forms the apple layer of the cake.
Sprinkle the yellow cake mix evenly over the apple filling. Do not mix it in—this step is important.
Cut the cold unsalted butter into thin slices and place them over the cake mix. Try to cover the whole surface. The butter helps create a golden, crispy top.
Bake the cake for about 1 hour, until the top is golden brown, bubbly, and crispy.
Serve the cake warm. You can add a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you like. The warm cake and cold ice cream taste great together.
Recipe tips & variations
To switch things up, consider using different fruit fillings like cherry or peach. You can also add a handful of chopped nuts on top before baking for an extra crunchy texture. If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle a dash of cinnamon over the apple layer for a spicy twist. These small variations can make this already versatile apple dump cake recipe an exciting new experience each time.
Storage & reheating
If you happen to have leftovers, this cake can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop a slice into the microwave for about 20 seconds until warm. It’s just as delightful the second time around!
FAQs
Can I make apple dump cake in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it in the oven before serving to crispen up the top again.
What if I don’t have a yellow cake mix?
No worries! A spice cake mix works wonderfully, adding a bit more flavor depth to the dessert.
Is it possible to make this cake dairy-free?
Sure! You can substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative to accommodate dietary needs.
Recipes you may like
- Check out our crescent roll breakfast recipes for more quick and delicious ideas.
- Start your day deliciously with our breakfast potatoes recipe easy crispy .
- And don’t miss our breakfast pizza recipe easy cheesy for a cheesy morning treat!
Cooking at home doesn’t have to be complicated, and with recipes like this apple dump cake , you can whip up something delightful with hardly any effort. Give it a try—I’m sure it’ll bring as much joy to your family as it does to mine!
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Apple Dump Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick and easy apple dump cake that brings smiles to your family’s faces.
Ingredients
- 2 cans (about 21-ounce) apple pie filling
- 1 box (15.25-ounce) yellow or spice cake mix
- 1 1/2 sticks (6 ounces) cold unsalted butter, plus more for the baking dish
- Vanilla ice cream, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Start by arranging a rack in the middle of the oven and preheat it to 350°F. Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with unsalted butter.
- Spread the 2 cans of apple pie filling evenly in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle the box of yellow cake mix evenly over the apple filling.
- Cut the cold unsalted butter into thin slices and lay them over the cake mix.
- Bake the cake until it’s golden brown, bubbling, and a crispy crust begins to form, about 1 hour.
- Serve warm, paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you like.
Notes
- Consider using different fruit fillings like cherry or peach.
- Add a handful of chopped nuts on top before baking for extra crunch.
- Sprinkle a dash of cinnamon over the apple layer for a spicy twist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg