Apple Pie Dump Cake
Apple Pie Dump Cake is the sweet, comforting dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate. This easy-to-make dessert combines the classic flavors of apple pie with the simplicity of a dump cake, making it perfect for both novice bakers and experienced chefs alike. The delightful blend of sweet cinnamon and tender apples, paired with a golden, buttery topping, creates a dessert that’s seriously hard to resist. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just satisfying a sweet craving at home, this recipe strikes a perfect balance between comfort and indulgence.
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I first discovered this delightful treat at a family potluck and have been hooked ever since. There’s something special about how effortlessly it comes together; no complicated steps or tricky ingredients. It’s almost like magic when you see the bubbly filling and golden crust come out of the oven. So, grab your apron and let’s get ready to create a dessert that will not only impress your guests but will also fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of baked apples and cinnamon!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: This Apple Pie Dump Cake comes together in just a few easy steps, keeping your prep time short and sweet!
- Irresistible Flavor: Each bite features tender apples nestled under a crunchy, buttery topping with just the right amount of spice.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: The bubbling filling alongside the golden crust makes this dessert as visually appealing as it is delicious.
- Flexible Serving: Enjoy it warm as a dessert, or embrace brunch with a scoop of ice cream on top!
- Diet-Friendly Options: You can easily adapt this recipe to fit dietary needs with gluten-free cake mix or dairy-free butter substitutes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 (20 oz) cans Apple Pie Filling: This is the star of the dish, providing that classic apple flavor we all know and love. Feel free to use homemade filling if you have it!
- 1 tsp Cinnamon: A warm spice that enhances the apple flavor, adding a comforting, aromatic note. Adjust the quantity to your taste preference.
- 1 (15 oz) box Yellow Cake Mix: Easy to work with and creates a delicious base that complements the apple filling perfectly. You can use any brand you prefer.
- 1 cup Butter: Melted and spread over the cake mix, it helps create a rich, crumbly topping. For a lighter version, consider substituting with a vegan butter alternative.
- Caramel Sauce, Optional: Drizzling some caramel sauce adds an extra layer of sweetness and sophistication. Homemade or store-bought, it’s a lovely finishing touch!
How to Make Apple Pie Dump Cake
- Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures an even bake, creating that wonderful golden crust.
- Prepare the Pan: Spray a 9 x 13 inch baking pan with non-stick spray. This will help your cake come out easily after baking.
- Spread the Apple Filling: Evenly spread the two cans of apple pie filling directly into the bottom of the prepared pan, covering it completely.
- Add Cinnamon: Sprinkle one teaspoon of cinnamon over the apple filling. This step infuses the dish with that classic spiced apple charm.
- Layer the Cake Mix: Take the yellow cake mix and sprinkle it evenly over the apple filling, ensuring it covers the fruit entirely.
- Top with Butter: Cut your cup of butter into thin slices and place these slabs across the top of the cake mix. This will melt beautifully while baking.
- Bake: Place your pan in the oven and bake for about 45 minutes. Watch for a golden top and bubbling filling, indicating it’s ready to come out.
- Serve Warm: Allow your cake to cool slightly before serving. It’s delightful on its own—or with a scoop of ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce for that extra indulgence!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover Apple Pie Dump Cake at room temperature for up to three days. To keep it fresh for longer, transfer it to a covered container in the refrigerator, where it can last for about a week. If you want to save it for later, freezing is an option too; just ensure you wrap it well, and it can be stored for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, heat it in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15-20 minutes to help preserve that perfect texture.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier slicing. This helps it melt evenly over the cake mix.
- Mix in some chopped nuts or oats for an added crunch in your topping—the texture contrast is delightful!
- Avoid overbaking; keep an eye on the cake during that last stretch in the oven. It’s done when the top is golden, and you see bubbling around the edges.
- Feel free to add sliced fresh apples along with the canned filling for a fresher flavor and added texture.
- If your cake mix is lumpy, whisk it briefly before adding it to ensure an even bake.
You’ll absolutely love this sweet and comforting Apple Pie Dump Cake, and it will quickly become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. It’s the kind of recipe that encourages creativity, so feel free to add your unique touch. Whether you serve it warm or let it chill, enjoy the sweet experience of making and sharing this delicious treat.

Recipe FAQs
Can I use fresh apples instead of canned pie filling?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh apples, peel, core, and slice about 6 cups of them. Toss the slices with sugar and cinnamon before layering them in the pan. This will give your dump cake a fresh and delicious twist!
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make Apple Pie Dump Cake gluten-free, simply substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix. Make sure your canned apple filling is also gluten-free by checking labels.
Can I prepare this dessert in advance?
Yes! You can assemble the cake up to a day in advance, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just remember to bring it to room temperature before baking for the best results.
What are some serving suggestions?
This dessert is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it by serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce. It’s perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or just a cozy night in!
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📖 Recipe Card

Apple Pie Dump Cake
- Prep Time: 60 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Desserts & Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Apple Pie Dump Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the comforting flavors of apple filling and cake mix. With simple prep and delicious taste, this dish is perfect for gatherings, quick desserts, or as a comforting treat after dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 (20 oz) cans Apple Pie Filling
- 1 tsp Cinnamon
- 1 (15 oz) box Yellow Cake Mix
- 1 cup Butter
- Caramel Sauce, Optional
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and spray a 9 x 13 inch pan with non-stick spray.
- Spread the apple pie filling evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon evenly over the top of the apple pie filling.
- Sprinkle the yellow cake mix evenly over the pie filling.
- Slice the butter into slabs and arrange them on top of the cake mix.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes or until the top is golden and the pie filling is bubbly.
- Serve warm, optionally topped with ice cream and drizzled with caramel sauce.
Notes
For added richness, use salted butter.
Drizzle caramel sauce generously for extra sweetness.
Feel free to serve with vanilla ice cream for a classic combo.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
