Let me tell you about one of my absolute favorite desserts: apple dump cake! Seriously, if you’re looking for something that’s not just delicious but also super easy to whip up, this is it. It’s the kind of dessert that makes you feel like a rockstar in the kitchen without spending hours slaving away. I remember the first time I made it; the aroma of warm apples and cinnamon filled my home, and I couldn’t wait to dig in! With just a few simple ingredients—like apple pie filling and yellow cake mix—you can create a warm, comforting treat that everyone will love. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll be your go-to dessert for gatherings, family dinners, or just because you’re craving something sweet!
Ingredients List
- 2 cans of apple pie filling – This is the star of the show! You can use your favorite brand or homemade if you’re feeling adventurous.
- 1 box of yellow cake mix – The base for our cake. No need to worry about mixing anything; just grab a box from the store.
- 1 cup of butter, melted – This adds richness and helps everything come together beautifully. Just melt it in the microwave or on the stove—super easy!
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon – A little sprinkle brings that cozy fall flavor to our dessert. You can add more if you love cinnamon like I do!
- 1 cup of chopped nuts (optional) – I love throwing in some walnuts or pecans for a nice crunch, but it’s totally up to you!
How to Prepare Apple Dump Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is super important because it helps the cake bake evenly and gives you that gorgeous golden top. So, go ahead and get that oven warmed up while you prepare the rest!
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
Now, grab your trusty 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread the two cans of apple pie filling evenly across the bottom. Make sure it’s nice and even so that every bite is packed with that delicious apple goodness. It’s the foundation of our dump cake, after all!
Step 3: Add Cake Mix
Next, sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over the apple filling. Just use your hands or a spoon to make sure it covers the apples evenly. No need to mix or fuss about—just let that cake mix rest on top, creating a delightful layer!
Step 4: Drizzle Butter
Now it’s time for the magic! Drizzle the melted butter all over the cake mix. It might feel a bit messy, but trust me, this is what makes it all come together. Just make sure to cover as much of the cake mix as you can for optimal baking.
Step 5: Add Cinnamon and Nuts
Sprinkle that lovely teaspoon of cinnamon over the top for some cozy flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in those chopped nuts now. They add a fantastic crunch, but it’s totally optional. Either way, it’s going to taste amazing!
Step 6: Bake
Pop your baking dish into the oven and let it bake for about 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is beautifully golden brown and the kitchen smells heavenly. Just keep an eye on it, as ovens can vary!
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. This is the toughest part, I know! But it helps the cake set a little. Serve it warm, and if you really want to treat yourself, top it with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. You won’t regret it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super Easy: With just a few simple ingredients, you can throw this together in no time. Perfect for beginner bakers!
- Quick Prep: It takes only about 10 minutes to prep before it goes into the oven, so you can spend more time enjoying it.
- Deliciously Cozy: The warm, spiced apple filling paired with the buttery cake mix creates a comforting flavor that feels like a hug in dessert form.
- Minimal Cleanup: Since you’re just dumping everything into one dish, cleanup is a breeze. Less time washing dishes means more time for dessert!
- Customizable: You can easily switch up the flavors by using different pie fillings or adding your favorite nuts. The possibilities are endless!
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re serving family or friends, this dessert never fails to impress. Everyone loves a good dump cake!
- Great for Any Occasion: Be it a casual weeknight or a festive gathering, this apple dump cake is a hit for any occasion!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your apple dump cake turns out perfectly! Here are some of my best tips to avoid common pitfalls and elevate your baking game.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Since this recipe is super simple, the quality of your ingredients really shines through. Try to use good-quality apple pie filling or even make your own if you have the time. Fresh ingredients can make a world of difference!
- Don’t Skip the Preheating: I can’t stress this enough! Preheating your oven is crucial for even baking. If you skip this step, you might end up with a soggy bottom or unevenly cooked cake. So, always preheat!
- Even Layering: When you spread the apple filling and cake mix, make sure they’re as even as possible. This helps ensure that every bite is just as delicious as the last. No one wants a dry piece, right?
- Keep an Eye on Baking Time: Every oven is a bit different, so check your cake a few minutes before the suggested baking time. If it’s golden brown and bubbly, it’s ready to come out!
- Let It Cool Slightly: I know it’s hard to resist digging in right away, but letting it cool for a few minutes helps it set. This way, you’ll get nice, clean slices instead of a messy scoop!
- Experiment with Toppings: Don’t be afraid to get creative! Try adding a drizzle of caramel sauce, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or some fresh fruit as a topping. It adds a lovely touch and makes it even more special!
- Storage Tips: If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best enjoyed within a few days, but you can still enjoy it for a bit longer if stored properly!
With these tips in hand, you’re all set to make a fabulous apple dump cake that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Happy baking!
Nutritional Information
Before you dive into this delicious apple dump cake, it’s good to know what you’re enjoying! Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. Here’s a rough estimate for one slice of this scrumptious dessert:
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 20g
- Protein: 2g
This cake is definitely a treat, so enjoy it in moderation! Whether you’re indulging at a gathering or savoring a slice at home, it’s all about finding that balance. Happy eating!
FAQ Section
Can I use fresh apples instead of apple pie filling?
Absolutely! If you prefer using fresh apples, just peel, core, and slice about 6-8 medium apples. Toss them in a bit of sugar and cinnamon to mimic the flavor of pie filling. Just remember to adjust the sugar based on how sweet your apples are!
What can I serve with apple dump cake?
Oh, there are so many delicious options! I highly recommend serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. You could also drizzle some caramel sauce on top for an extra treat. Yum!
How do I store leftovers?
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), just let the cake cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat a slice in the microwave for a few seconds before enjoying!
Can I make this dump cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can! You can assemble the dump cake ahead of time, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to a day. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake, but add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it’ll be cold.
Are there any variations I can try?
Definitely! You can switch up the flavors by using different pie fillings, like cherry or peach, instead of apple. Or try adding spices like nutmeg or even a splash of vanilla extract for extra flavor. The possibilities are endless, so get creative!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you’re lucky enough to have some leftovers (which, let’s be honest, is rare with this deliciousness), here’s how to store and reheat your apple dump cake to keep it tasting just as amazing!
First, let the cake cool completely at room temperature. Once it’s cool, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. This will help keep it fresh and prevent it from drying out. It’ll stay good in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
When it comes to reheating, simply pop a slice in the microwave for about 15-30 seconds, depending on your microwave’s power. You want it warm and cozy, but not too hot that you burn your mouth! If you prefer, you can also reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes—just cover it with aluminum foil to keep it from getting too brown.
And there you have it! Now you can enjoy your scrumptious apple dump cake even after the first serving. Happy indulging!
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Apple Dump Cake Recipes: 7 Irresistible Tips for Success
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and delicious apple dump cake that anyone can make.
Ingredients
- 2 cans of apple pie filling
- 1 box of yellow cake mix
- 1 cup of butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
- 1 cup of chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread the apple pie filling evenly in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the dry cake mix over the apple filling.
- Drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix evenly.
- Sprinkle cinnamon on top.
- If using, add chopped nuts on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute with fresh apples if preferred.
- Serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: apple dump cake recipes
