Caramel Apple Dump Cake

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Created on October 4th, 2025 at 09:28 pm

Warm, gooey, and packed with cozy fall flavor

If you’re all about those warm, cinnamon-spiced apple desserts that practically bake themselves, this Caramel Apple Dump Cake is about to steal your heart. It’s inspired by classic apple crisp and caramel pie — but with a twist that’s way easier. No crust, no mixing bowls, and no stress. Just layer a few pantry staples into a baking dish and pop it in the oven. The result? A bubbling, golden-topped dessert with buttery cake on top and gooey caramel apples underneath. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, and it becomes the ultimate comfort dessert for fall gatherings, cozy weekends, or last-minute celebrations. 🍏🍰

Golden-baked caramel apple cake ready to serve

🌟 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dump cake is a surefire crowd-pleaser—no baking skills required. You get the rich, gooey filling of a caramel apple pie, but with the light, fluffy texture of a buttery cake. It’s one of those “dump and bake” wonders that makes you look like a kitchen pro with minimal effort. Whether you’re baking for a Gratitude Gathering, fall potluck, or just craving a taste of the season, this dessert brings all the autumn vibes with none of the hassle.

⏱️ Time Breakdown

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 12 squares

📝 Ingredients List

2 cans (21 oz each) apple pie filling
1 box yellow cake mix
1/2 cup caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
1 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional)
Pinch of salt
1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional topping)

✨ Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free.

9×13-inch baking pan
Measuring cups and spoons
Small mixing bowl
Whisk or spoon
Spatula or butter knife
Oven mitts
Aluminum foil (optional for covering)

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your 9×13 baking dish.

2. Add Apple Filling
Spread both cans of apple pie filling evenly in the bottom of the pan.

3. Sprinkle in Spice
Dust cinnamon and a pinch of salt over the apples. Add nutmeg for extra warmth.

4. Drizzle Caramel 🍯
Pour caramel sauce over the apple mixture—don’t worry about perfect coverage.

5. Layer the Cake Mix
Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly on top of the apples and caramel.

6. Add the Butter 🧈
Slowly drizzle melted butter over the entire surface to moisten the cake mix.

7. Optional: Add Crunch
Top with chopped pecans if desired.

8. Bake Until Golden ⏲️
Bake for 40–45 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

9. Cool & Serve
Let cool for 15–20 minutes. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. 🍨

💡 Pro Tips

Swap It Out
Use cinnamon roll cake mix for extra cozy spice, or spice cake mix for more depth.

Nut-Free Version
Skip the pecans or sub with crushed graham crackers or oats for texture.

Extra Caramel? Yes!
Drizzle more warm caramel over each slice before serving.

Avoid Dry Spots
After layering butter, lightly swirl it with a knife to help distribute evenly.

Leftovers? Reheat Like a Pro
Microwave individual slices for 20 seconds to bring back that gooey warmth.

✨ It’s Your Turn to Bake

This Caramel Apple Dump Cake brings together everything we love about fall desserts — warm, buttery, cinnamon-rich flavors that melt in your mouth. It’s fast, foolproof, and feeds a crowd. Whether you’re sharing it at a seasonal celebration or saving a pan for yourself, this recipe is all about comfort, flavor, and simplicity. Grab your apples and get baking — dessert magic is just a few layers away.

📊 Nutrition Table

Serving Size	Calories	Protein	Carbs	Fat	Fiber	Sugar
1 square	410	3g	55g	19g	2g	35g

Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.