Warm your heart on a chilly autumn day with caramel apple dump cake, a delectable dessert that is a real treat for fall. You will appreciate the simplicity and deliciousness of this easy dessert recipe whether you’re a kitchen novice or a seasoned baker.

The combination of juicy apples and sweet caramel makes this a perfect fall dessert. This easy dump cake will instantly add a sense of cozy comfort as the seasons transition to wintertime.

The rich, buttery cake is the perfect complement to the tangy apple pie filling, while the caramel adds a decadent touch. It is pure bliss for your taste buds. Once you’ve tried it, you’ll be hooked!

Diving into this soft, tender cake filled with gooey caramel is a bit like biting into warm apple pie, minus the hassle of making a crust. On the days when I’m craving an apple treat, this is the perfect easy dessert! For that reason, it’s one of my favorite cake recipes.

The total time to whip it up is absurdly short, and most of that is prep time of opening ingredients and slicing the butter!

What to serve with caramel apple dump cake

This versatile treat can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. If you’re looking for a simple, casual dessert, serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast of hot and cold, creamy and cakey, is simply divine.

For a more elegant presentation, you can plate the dump cake with a swirl of whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce.

When it comes to the best types of meals to go with this caramel apple cake, serve it alongside a hearty Brunswick stew or savory pot roast. The sweetness of the dessert is a nice contrast to entrees with rich, savory flavors.

Ingredients needed to make this caramel apple dump cake recipe

Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that make this dessert so special:

Apple Pie Filling: This is the main ingredient, creating a base of sweet, tangy apple chunks and a hint of warm spices. While you can make your own, canned apple pie filling works great!
Caramel Bits or Sauce: Caramel adds a luscious, decadent touch to the cake, making it extra rich and indulgent.
Yellow or Spice Cake Mix: The cake mix serves as the base of the dessert, creating a tender, fluffy texture that perfectly complements the apples and caramel.
Cinnamon: This warm, fragrant spice enhances the flavors of the apples and adds depth to the overall taste of the cake. For more hints of spice, you could add a pinch of nutmeg.
Unsalted Butter: Butter brings a creamy richness to the cake, ensuring a moist, delicious result.
Whipped Cream or Ice Cream: These optional toppings add a touch of creaminess and luxury to your caramel apple dump cake experience.
Walnuts (Optional): While not required, the nuts will add a satisfying texture and hint of flavor.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Mixing bowl
9 x 13 Baking dish

What is the biggest mistake to avoid when making a dump cake?

The biggest mistake to avoid when making a dump cake is over-mixing the ingredients. As the name suggests, these cakes are meant to be effortless and easy, so resist the urge to stir everything together. Instead, simply layer the ingredients in the baking dish and let the magic happen in the oven.

How long does dump cake last in the refrigerator?

Stored properly in an airtight container, dump cake leftovers can last for three to four days in the fridge. To enjoy it at its best, reheat the cake before serving in a microwave, and top it with your favorite accompaniments.

Can I use homemade apple pie filling instead of store-bought?

Of course! While I used cans of apple pie filling from the store, using your own apple pie filling recipe will probably make this next level. Just make sure the filling is cooled to room temperature before adding it to the baking dish.

Can I substitute the yellow or spice cake mix with a different flavor?

Yes, you can experiment with various cake mix flavors to create your ideal caramel apple dump cake. Some delicious alternatives include butter pecan, French vanilla, or even chocolate for an extra-decadent twist.

More Grandma-Approved Recipes To Try

If you enjoyed this recipe for caramel apple dump cake, here are more grandma-approved dessert recipes that you should try!