Apple Cinnamon Dump Cake Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightfully simple, crowd-pleasing dessert that oozes cozy vibes, look no further than this Apple Cinnamon Dump Cake Recipe. With just a handful of kitchen staples, you can whip up a warm, aromatic treat in no time—no fancy mixing or complicated steps required! Each bite is like an embrace: luscious apple pie filling meets spiced cake and a buttery, golden crust. It’s the perfect fix when you want something soul-satisfying but low-maintenance, and it’s sure to become your new fall favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe is not only how quick it comes together, but also that the ingredients are probably already in your pantry! Each one is essential: from the fresh pop of apple to the deep flavor of spice cake, these elements harmonize to create a dessert that tastes much more complicated than it is.

• Spice Cake Mix: Infuses the dessert with instant warm, autumnal flavor and makes prep effortless—no mixing bowl required!
• Apple Pie Filling: Ready-made and bursting with juicy apples, it delivers that gooey, luscious base we all crave.
• Unsalted Butter (melted): Adds richness and helps turn the cake topping into a golden, crispy crust.
• Cinnamon: Boosts the warm, comforting aroma and ties together the apple and spice flavors seamlessly.
• Vanilla Ice Cream (Optional): For serving—its creamy finish is the perfect foil to the warm, spiced cake, making every forkful extra special.

How to Make Apple Cinnamon Dump Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Give your 9×13-inch baking dish a generous greasing—this prevents sticking and ensures the cake slices out beautifully. There’s something oddly satisfying about prepping the pan, knowing the “hard work” is already almost over.

Step 2: Layer the Apples

Open your cans of apple pie filling and spread them evenly into the bottom of your greased dish. Try to get an even layer, as this forms that luscious, gooey base everyone looks forward to in an Apple Cinnamon Dump Cake Recipe.

Step 3: Sprinkle on the Cinnamon

Next, dust the cinnamon evenly over the top of the apples. This simple step intensifies that signature bakery-style aroma and turns each bite extra comforting, with that signature apple-cinnamon blend.

Step 4: Add the Cake Mix

Now, sprinkle the dry spice cake mix evenly over your apple-cinnamon layer. Don’t press it down—the slightly uneven surface lets the butter seep in and crisp up all those craggy edges. This truly is the essence of a good dump cake!

Step 5: Drizzle with Butter

Finally, take your melted butter and drizzle it evenly all over the dry cake mix. Don’t worry if it looks a bit patchy; the butter will soak in while baking, giving the top its dreamy, golden crunch.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 40–45 minutes, until the top is golden brown, bubbly, and impossibly inviting. Once it’s done, let it cool for a few minutes, then get ready for a flavor-packed, warm dessert that defines comfort food.

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Dump Cake Recipe

Garnishes

You can’t go wrong with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream melting into the warm cake, but a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of extra cinnamon doesn’t hurt either. For a little crunch, try a handful of toasted pecans or walnuts on top. The idea is to create contrasts—cold ice cream, warm cake, creamy, crispy—so every bite is exciting.

Side Dishes

This Apple Cinnamon Dump Cake Recipe is definitely a star on its own, but if you’re building a dessert spread, consider pairing it with a simple fresh fruit salad or a few crisp apple slices on the side. For a festive gathering, serve with mugs of hot mulled cider or a pot of strong coffee for the ultimate cozy finish.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn things up a notch by baking the dump cake in individual ramekins for pretty, single-serve desserts. Dust each with powdered sugar just before serving for a bakery-style flourish. Or, layer pieces of cake in parfait glasses with vanilla pudding and whipped cream for a trifle-style twist that looks as fabulous as it tastes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Have some left after dessert? Just cover the baking dish tightly with foil or transfer slices to an airtight container. The Apple Cinnamon Dump Cake Recipe keeps well in the refrigerator for 3–4 days—the flavors only get cozier as they meld together!

Freezing

Want to stash some away for later? Let the cake cool completely, then wrap in plastic wrap and foil before freezing, or use an airtight freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight when you’re ready for another round of autumnal goodness.

Reheating

To reheat, simply scoop a portion into a microwave-safe bowl and warm in 30-second bursts until hot. For a crispier topping, pop it back into the oven at 350°F for about 10–15 minutes. Top with fresh ice cream or whipped cream, and it’ll taste just as amazing as day one!

FAQs

Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?

Absolutely! While spice cake mix is classic for the Apple Cinnamon Dump Cake Recipe, yellow or white cake mixes work too, especially if you add an extra dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth.

What if I don’t have canned apple pie filling?

No worries! You can peel and slice about six apples, toss with a little sugar and cinnamon, and use that instead. It may be slightly less sweet and a bit more rustic—but just as delicious.

Is it possible to make this dairy-free?

Yes! Swap in your favorite plant-based butter or even melted coconut oil. The texture might change slightly, but you’ll still get a lovely golden top and rich flavor.

Can I prepare the Apple Cinnamon Dump Cake Recipe ahead of time?

You can assemble the layers earlier in the day, then cover and chill until you’re ready to bake. For best texture, though, bake just before serving so the top stays crisp and the filling bubbly.

What are the best apples to use if making fresh filling?

Firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are stellar for homemade filling—they stay toothsome as they bake and their flavor balances out the sweet cake topping beautifully.

Final Thoughts

If you haven’t tried an Apple Cinnamon Dump Cake Recipe yet, it’s truly the dessert equivalent of a cozy blanket on a chilly evening—effortless, comforting, and guaranteed to put smiles on faces. Grab your ingredients and treat yourself (and your loved ones) to a dessert that tastes like pure joy—because sharing something this delicious is always the best part.

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