Caramel Apple Dump Cake: The Easiest Fall Dessert You’ll Love
There’s nothing quite like the cozy flavors of fall, especially when they come together in a quick and easy dessert like caramel apple dump cake. Whether you’re preparing for a family gathering, a cozy evening at home, or just craving a delicious, effortless dessert, this cake is perfect. The warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg combined with the sweetness of caramel and apple pie filling make it a seasonal favorite.
If you’re looking for another apple-inspired dessert, check out this Caramel Apple Dump Cake Recipe from AllRecipes for a simple twist on this classic.
Why Caramel Apple Dump Cake is the Best Easy Fall Dessert
The beauty of a dump cake is its simplicity. As the name suggests, you just “dump” the ingredients into the baking dish and bake—no mixing required! The result is a gooey, flavorful cake that’s perfect when served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The combination of sweet apples and caramel creates a rich, warm dessert that’s irresistible.
For more inspiration, explore this Easy Apple Dump Cake Recipe from Betty Crocker. This variation incorporates apple pie filling and spice cake mix, just like our recipe.
Ingredients for Caramel Apple Dump Cake
This recipe calls for a handful of pantry staples that combine to make a perfect fall dessert.
- Apple Pie Filling: Canned apple pie filling makes this recipe super easy, but you can also make your own homemade filling.
- Caramel Sauce: Store-bought or homemade caramel sauce for layering between the apples and the cake mix.
- Spice Cake Mix: Infused with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice, it adds richness to the dessert.
- Butter: Melted butter helps create a crisp, golden topping.
- Optional Ingredients: Chopped pecans or walnuts for an extra layer of crunch.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Caramel Apple Dump Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spread the apple pie filling evenly across the bottom of the dish.
Step 2: Add the Caramel
- Drizzle the caramel sauce over the apple pie filling. Make sure the apples are evenly coated with the caramel for a rich, gooey layer.
Step 3: Sprinkle the Cake Mix
- Evenly distribute the spice cake mix over the apple and caramel layers. This dry cake mix will absorb the moisture as it bakes and form a delicious crust.
Step 4: Add Melted Butter
- Pour melted butter evenly over the dry cake mix. The butter will help create a crispy, golden top crust as the cake bakes.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving.
Recipe Variations for Caramel Apple Dump Cake
1. Salted Caramel Apple Dump Cake
- For a salty-sweet twist, sprinkle a bit of sea salt over the caramel layer before adding the cake mix. The salt enhances the caramel’s sweetness and balances the dessert’s flavors.
2. Nutty Caramel Apple Dump Cake
- Add chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the caramel layer for extra crunch. The nuts also add a savory note that complements the sweetness of the apples and caramel.
3. Caramel Apple Cheesecake Dump Cake
- Layer cream cheese over the apple pie filling before adding the cake mix to create a rich, creamy twist. This cheesecake version adds another layer of indulgence to an already decadent dessert.
4. Gluten-Free Dump Cake
- Substitute a gluten-free cake mix for the spice cake mix to create a gluten-free version. Ensure all other ingredients, like the caramel sauce, are also gluten-free.
Tips for the Perfect Caramel Apple Dump Cake
1. Spread the Ingredients Evenly
- Even distribution of the ingredients is key to ensuring each bite has the perfect balance of apples, caramel, and cake.
2. Use a Nonstick Pan
- Make sure your baking dish is well-greased or lined with parchment paper to prevent the caramel from sticking to the bottom.
3. Serve Warm
- For the best results, serve the dump cake warm. This allows the caramel and apple filling to stay gooey and delicious.
Serving Suggestions for Caramel Apple Dump Cake
1. With Vanilla Ice Cream
- The warm caramel and apple filling pairs perfectly with cold vanilla ice cream, creating a comforting contrast of temperatures and textures.
2. With Whipped Cream
- A dollop of light, airy whipped cream adds a touch of elegance and balances the richness of the dessert.
3. With an Extra Drizzle of Caramel
- For added indulgence, drizzle more caramel sauce over each slice of cake before serving. This makes the dessert even more decadent.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Caramel Apple Dump Cake
1. What is a dump cake?
- A dump cake is a quick and easy dessert where all the ingredients are literally dumped into the baking dish without mixing. As it bakes, the ingredients combine to form a cake with a gooey filling and a crisp topping.
2. Can I use homemade apple pie filling?
- Yes, homemade apple pie filling can be used instead of canned. This allows you to control the sweetness and spices, making the dessert even more customized.
3. How do I store leftovers?
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave or warm the entire dish in the oven.
4. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the cake up to a day in advance. Bake it and store it at room temperature. Reheat it before serving to refresh the flavors.
5. Can I freeze caramel apple dump cake?
- Yes, you can freeze this cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and warm it in the oven before serving.
Conclusion
Caramel apple dump cake is the ultimate fall dessert, combining the flavors of sweet apples, rich caramel, and warm spices in a cake that requires minimal effort. Whether you serve it at a family dinner, a holiday party, or simply enjoy it at home with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, this dump cake will quickly become a seasonal favorite. With easy variations and tips for perfecting the recipe, it’s sure to impress anyone who tries it.
For more easy and delicious dump cake recipes, check out Sally’s Baking Addiction Apple Dump Cake for another variation you’ll love.
