Easy Caramel Apple Dump Cake: The Ultimate Fall Dessert
Fall is in the air, and that means it’s time for all things apple and caramel! What better way to celebrate the season than with a warm, gooey, and incredibly easy Caramel Apple Dump Cake? This recipe is a total crowd-pleaser, perfect for potlucks, Thanksgiving, or just a cozy night in. The best part? It requires minimal effort and ingredients, making it a go-to dessert when you’re short on time but craving something delicious.
This Caramel Apple Dump Cake recipe is a simplified version of traditional apple desserts, combining the comforting flavors of apple pie with the ease of a dump cake. Instead of making a complicated crust or preparing a filling from scratch, you simply layer ingredients in a baking dish and let the oven do its magic. The result is a moist, flavorful cake with a crispy, buttery topping that’s impossible to resist.
## Why You’ll Love This Caramel Apple Dump Cake
* **Easy to Make:** Seriously, this recipe is foolproof. If you can layer ingredients, you can make this cake.
* **Minimal Ingredients:** You probably already have most of these ingredients in your pantry.
* **Quick to Prepare:** From start to finish, this cake takes about an hour to make, including baking time.
* **Incredibly Delicious:** The combination of apples, caramel, cinnamon, and buttery cake mix is simply irresistible.
* **Perfect for Any Occasion:** Whether it’s a casual weeknight dessert or a holiday gathering, this cake is always a hit.
* **Customizable:** Easily adapt the recipe to your preferences by adding nuts, different spices, or using different types of apples.
## Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you start, gather the following ingredients:
* **2 (21 ounce) cans apple pie filling:** This forms the base of your cake. You can use any brand you prefer. If you want a chunkier cake, opt for a pie filling with larger apple pieces.
* **1 (15.25 ounce) box yellow cake mix:** This creates the sweet, crumbly topping. You can also use a white cake mix or spice cake mix for a slightly different flavor profile.
* **1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted:** The melted butter adds richness and creates a golden-brown, crispy topping.
* **1 cup caramel sauce:** Use your favorite store-bought or homemade caramel sauce. The caramel infuses the cake with its signature sweet and buttery flavor.
* **1 teaspoon ground cinnamon:** Cinnamon enhances the apple flavor and adds warmth to the cake.
* **Optional Toppings:** Chopped pecans or walnuts, whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, extra caramel sauce.
## Equipment You’ll Need
* **9×13 inch baking dish:** This is the standard size for this recipe.
* **Large mixing bowl:** For melting the butter and combining the cake mix.
* **Measuring cups and spoons:** For accurate ingredient measurements.
* **Spatula or spoon:** For spreading the apple pie filling and caramel sauce.
## Step-by-Step Instructions
Now, let’s get baking! Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Caramel Apple Dump Cake:
**Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish**
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This will prevent the cake from sticking to the bottom.
**Step 2: Layer the Apple Pie Filling**
Pour both cans of apple pie filling into the prepared baking dish. Spread the filling evenly across the bottom of the dish.
**Step 3: Sprinkle with Cinnamon**
Sprinkle the ground cinnamon evenly over the apple pie filling. This will add a warm, comforting flavor to the cake.
**Step 4: Drizzle with Caramel Sauce**
Drizzle the caramel sauce evenly over the apple pie filling and cinnamon. Try to cover as much of the surface as possible. This will create pockets of gooey caramel throughout the cake.
**Step 5: Add the Cake Mix**
Evenly sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over the apple pie filling and caramel sauce. Make sure to cover the entire surface with the cake mix. Don’t worry about mixing it in; it will bake on top.
**Step 6: Pour the Melted Butter**
Pour the melted butter evenly over the dry cake mix. This is crucial for creating a crispy, golden-brown topping. Try to distribute the butter as evenly as possible to ensure that all of the cake mix is moistened. You can use a spoon to help spread the butter around if needed.
**Step 7: Add Optional Nuts (Optional)**
If you’re using nuts, sprinkle them evenly over the top of the cake. Pecans and walnuts are particularly delicious with apple and caramel.
**Step 8: Bake the Cake**
Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apple pie filling is bubbly. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it and check for doneness using a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake. If the toothpick comes out clean (or with a few moist crumbs), the cake is ready.
**Step 9: Let Cool Slightly**
Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for at least 15-20 minutes before serving. This will allow the cake to set slightly and prevent it from being too runny.
**Step 10: Serve and Enjoy!**
Serve the Caramel Apple Dump Cake warm, either plain or with your favorite toppings. Whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, and extra caramel sauce are all excellent choices.
## Tips for the Perfect Caramel Apple Dump Cake
* **Use Quality Ingredients:** Using high-quality apple pie filling, caramel sauce, and cake mix will make a noticeable difference in the flavor of your cake.
* **Don’t Overbake:** Overbaking the cake can result in a dry, crumbly texture. Be sure to check for doneness regularly during the last 15 minutes of baking.
* **Evenly Distribute the Butter:** Pouring the melted butter evenly over the cake mix is essential for creating a crispy topping. Take your time and make sure that all of the cake mix is moistened.
* **Add a Pinch of Salt:** A pinch of salt to the apple pie filling can enhance the sweetness and balance the flavors.
* **Experiment with Flavors:** Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and ingredients. Try using a spice cake mix instead of yellow cake mix, or add a dash of nutmeg or allspice to the apple pie filling.
* **Make it Ahead:** You can assemble the cake ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Just be sure to add the melted butter right before baking.
* **Reheat Leftovers:** Leftover Caramel Apple Dump Cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual slices for 30-60 seconds, or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
## Variations and Add-ins
One of the best things about this recipe is how easily it can be adapted to your personal preferences. Here are a few ideas for variations and add-ins:
* **Spice Cake Dump Cake:** Use a spice cake mix instead of yellow cake mix for a warmer, more autumnal flavor.
* **Apple Cranberry Dump Cake:** Add a cup of dried cranberries to the apple pie filling for a tart and festive twist.
* **Pecan Caramel Apple Dump Cake:** Add a cup of chopped pecans to the cake mix or sprinkle them on top for a nutty crunch.
* **Walnut Caramel Apple Dump Cake:** Substitute walnuts for pecans for a slightly different flavor.
* **Chocolate Chip Caramel Apple Dump Cake:** Sprinkle chocolate chips over the cake mix for a decadent treat.
* **Salted Caramel Apple Dump Cake:** Use salted caramel sauce instead of regular caramel sauce for a sweet and salty flavor combination.
* **Bourbon Caramel Apple Dump Cake:** Add a tablespoon of bourbon to the caramel sauce for a hint of boozy warmth.
* **Gluten-Free Caramel Apple Dump Cake:** Use a gluten-free cake mix to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
* **Dairy-Free Caramel Apple Dump Cake:** Use a dairy-free butter substitute and caramel sauce to make this recipe dairy-free.
* **Add a Streusel Topping:** For an extra-crispy topping, make a streusel by combining flour, butter, and sugar, and sprinkle it over the cake mix before baking.
## Serving Suggestions
This Caramel Apple Dump Cake is delicious on its own, but it’s even better with a few simple toppings:
* **Whipped Cream:** A dollop of whipped cream adds a light and airy touch.
* **Vanilla Ice Cream:** A scoop of vanilla ice cream complements the warm, gooey cake perfectly.
* **Caramel Sauce:** A drizzle of extra caramel sauce enhances the caramel flavor and adds a touch of indulgence.
* **Chopped Nuts:** A sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts adds a nutty crunch.
* **Cinnamon Sugar:** A dusting of cinnamon sugar adds a warm and comforting touch.
* **Apple Slices:** Serve with fresh apple slices for a refreshing contrast.
* **Cinnamon Stick:** Garnish with a cinnamon stick for a festive touch.
## Storage Instructions
* **Refrigerator:** Store leftover Caramel Apple Dump Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
* **Freezer:** You can also freeze the cake for longer storage. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
## Reheating Instructions
* **Microwave:** To reheat individual slices, microwave for 30-60 seconds, or until warmed through.
* **Oven:** To reheat the entire cake, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
## Nutritional Information (Approximate)
* Calories: 450-550 per serving (depending on toppings)
* Fat: 20-30g
* Saturated Fat: 10-15g
* Cholesterol: 50-70mg
* Sodium: 200-300mg
* Carbohydrates: 60-80g
* Sugar: 40-50g
* Protein: 3-5g
*Please note that this is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.*
## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
**Q: Can I use a different type of cake mix?**
A: Yes, you can use white cake mix, spice cake mix, or even chocolate cake mix for a different flavor profile.
**Q: Can I use homemade apple pie filling?**
A: Absolutely! Homemade apple pie filling will add an even more delicious and authentic flavor to the cake.
**Q: Can I use a different type of apple?**
A: While the recipe calls for apple pie filling, which typically uses a blend of apples, you could add some diced fresh apples such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji to enhance the apple flavor and texture. Mix them in with the canned filling.
**Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?**
A: Yes, you can assemble the cake ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Just be sure to add the melted butter right before baking.
**Q: How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the baking dish?**
A: Grease the baking dish thoroughly with butter or cooking spray before adding the ingredients.
**Q: My cake is browning too quickly. What should I do?**
A: If the cake is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil during the last 15-20 minutes of baking.
**Q: Can I add a crumble topping?**
A: Yes! For an extra-crispy topping, make a streusel topping by combining flour, butter, and sugar, and sprinkle it over the cake mix before baking.
**Q: Can I make this vegan?**
A: Yes, by using vegan cake mix, vegan butter, and vegan caramel sauce. Also, be sure to check that your apple pie filling is vegan-friendly.
**Q: Is it necessary to use melted butter?**
A: Yes, the melted butter is essential for creating a crispy, golden-brown topping. It helps to moisten the cake mix and bind it together.
**Q: The middle of my cake is still gooey. Is it done?**
A: The middle of the cake should be slightly gooey, but not completely runny. If it’s still very liquid, continue baking for a few more minutes, checking for doneness regularly.
## Conclusion
This Caramel Apple Dump Cake is a simple, delicious, and satisfying dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a warm, gooey, and incredibly flavorful cake that everyone will love. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy the ultimate fall dessert!
Enjoy your baking and happy fall!