There’s something about the scent of apples and cinnamon wafting through the house that immediately takes me back to crisp autumn days spent in my grandmother’s kitchen. She always had a knack for creating the most comforting desserts with only a handful of ingredients. One of my all-time favorites was her Caramel Apple Dump Cake. This delightful dish is a staple in my home now, and I can’t wait to share it with you. Imagine the simplicity of a dump cake combined with the rich, gooey goodness of caramel and apples—it’s a match made in dessert heaven!
Table of Contents
- Why You’ll Love This Dessert
- The Recipe
- Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- The Benefits of Each Ingredient
- What to Serve With This Dessert
- Storage & Leftover Tips
Why You’ll Love This Dessert
- Effortless Preparation: This is one of those beautiful recipes that requires minimal effort but yields maximum flavor. All you need to do is layer the ingredients, pop it in the oven, and let it do its magic! The hardest part might just be waiting for it to bake while your kitchen fills with that intoxicating aroma. The straightforward nature of this recipe makes it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute guests. It’s a no-fuss approach to baking that doesn’t compromise on taste.
- Family-Friendly: It’s a dessert that brings the family together. Whether you’re serving it at a cozy family dinner or a holiday gathering, it’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults. Watching the caramel bubble through the cake mix is always a fun spectacle! It’s also a great way to introduce kids to baking. They can help with layering the ingredients, making them feel involved in the kitchen.
- Versatile Pairing: This cake pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, making it a versatile choice for any occasion. It can be dressed up for a festive dinner or kept simple for a casual weeknight treat. The cake’s comforting flavors make it a perfect accompaniment to a hot cup of coffee or tea, enhancing those cozy moments.
- Warm and Comforting: Perfect for chilly days when you need something warm and comforting to lift your spirits. Its cozy flavors are like a hug in dessert form, ideal for savoring by the fire. The combination of apples, cinnamon, and caramel creates an inviting aroma that makes any house feel like home.
- Simple Ingredients: With just a few pantry staples and some fresh ingredients, you can whip up a dessert that tastes like it took hours to make. Plus, these are ingredients you might already have on hand, making it a perfect last-minute dessert option. The simple ingredient list is also budget-friendly, ensuring that you can enjoy a delicious treat without breaking the bank.
The Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 (20 ounce) cans apple pie filling
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 1/2 cups Kraft caramels, unwrapped and each cut in half
- 15.25 ounce yellow cake mix
- 1 cup butter, cut into ¼ inch thick pats
Directions:
- Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake cooks evenly. A well-preheated oven is the first step to achieving that perfect golden crust. Taking the time to preheat the oven properly can make a significant difference in the final texture of your cake.
- Prepare the Base: In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread the apple pie filling evenly. This forms the deliciously fruity base of your cake. Make sure to distribute the filling so that every bite is packed with apple goodness. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try making your own apple pie filling using fresh apples, sugar, and spices for an even more homemade touch.
- Add Spices: Sprinkle the ground cinnamon and nutmeg evenly over the apples. These spices are what give your cake that warm, inviting aroma. Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste—more cinnamon for a spicier kick or more nutmeg for a deeper flavor. You can also add a pinch of ground cloves or ginger for an extra layer of complexity.
- Layer Caramels: Evenly scatter the halved caramels over the apple mixture. As they melt, they’ll create a delectable caramel layer, adding a touch of gooey sweetness to every forkful. Consider using salted caramel for a hint of saltiness that balances the sweetness beautifully, or experiment with different caramel brands for varying flavors.
- Add Cake Mix: Pour the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the caramels and apples. Do not stir—this is the beauty of a dump cake; everything bakes together in layers. It’s crucial to spread the cake mix evenly to ensure a uniform bake. If you prefer a slightly denser texture, gently pat the cake mix down with a spatula but avoid mixing it.
- Top with Butter: Place pats of butter evenly over the top of the cake mix. As it bakes, the butter will melt and create a crispy, golden topping. The butter ensures that the cake mix bakes up to a lovely, crunchy finish. For a richer flavor, you can use salted butter, which adds a subtle contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
- Bake: Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the caramel is bubbly. Keep an eye on the cake in the last few minutes to prevent over-browning. The baking time can vary slightly depending on your oven, so it’s always a good idea to check for doneness with a toothpick.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving to let the caramel set. Serve warm for the best experience, when the caramel is still a bit gooey and the cake is deliciously soft. If you prefer a firmer texture, let the cake cool completely before slicing.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 50 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour
Calories: 430 kcal | Servings: 8 servings
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch baking dish: Essential for even cooking and ensuring your cake layers properly. A glass or ceramic dish works best, as they distribute heat evenly. If you don’t have this size, two 8×8 inch pans can be used as an alternative.
- Sharp knife: For cutting the butter and caramels. A good knife will make quick work of unwrapping and halving the caramels. A kitchen scissors can also be handy for cutting caramels if you prefer.
- Measuring spoons: To accurately measure your spices. Precision is key to balancing the flavors in your cake. Using the right amount of spices ensures that the flavors don’t overpower the delicate balance of the dessert.
- Spatula or spoon: To spread ingredients evenly. A spatula is perfect for smoothing the apple pie filling layer. A rubber or silicone spatula can also be used to scrape down any remaining filling from the can.
The Benefits of Each Ingredient
- Apple Pie Filling: Provides a sweet and tart base that pairs beautifully with the spices and caramel. It’s a convenient option that delivers consistent flavor and texture. If you prefer homemade, you can peel and slice fresh apples, toss them with sugar, and cook them down with a bit of lemon juice for a fresher taste.
- Ground Cinnamon and Nutmeg: These spices add warmth and depth to the cake, enhancing the apple flavor. They’re classic fall spices that complement the sweetness of the apples and the richness of the caramel. Cinnamon is known for its health benefits, such as its antioxidant properties, while nutmeg offers a subtle earthiness.
- Kraft Caramels: They melt into a gooey layer of sweetness that complements the apples perfectly. The caramels also add a chewy texture that contrasts with the soft apples and crisp topping. You can experiment with homemade caramel or different brands to adjust the flavor profile.
- Yellow Cake Mix: Offers a quick and easy way to create a fluffy topping that contrasts with the gooey caramel. It’s a shortcut that doesn’t sacrifice flavor or texture. If you prefer, you can make your own cake mix by combining flour, sugar, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
- Butter: Ensures the top of the cake becomes crispy and golden, adding richness to the dessert. The butter also helps bind the cake mix, creating a delectable crust that holds everything together. Using high-quality butter can elevate the overall flavor of the cake.
What to Serve With This Dessert
This Caramel Apple Dump Cake is a star on its own, but pairing it with a few extras can elevate it to the next level. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The cold, creamy texture of the ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm, gooey cake. It melts slightly on top, creating a luscious sauce that mingles with the caramel. For an adventurous twist, try pairing it with cinnamon ice cream or salted caramel gelato.
- Whipped Cream: A light, fluffy addition that complements the rich flavors without overpowering them. You can even add a touch of cinnamon to the whipped cream for an extra layer of flavor. Homemade whipped cream using heavy cream and a bit of vanilla extract can enhance the dessert even more.
- Chopped Nuts: Add some crunch by sprinkling toasted pecans or walnuts over the top just before serving. The nuts add a nutty flavor and a satisfying crunch that pairs well with the soft cake. For an unexpected twist, consider using candied nuts or slivered almonds.
For more cozy dessert ideas, you might also enjoy our Classic Apple Crisp or Warm Pear Cobbler recipes. These recipes share the same comforting flavors and are perfect for any fall gathering.
Storage & Leftover Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers (though I doubt you will), this cake stores beautifully.
- Refrigeration: Cover your baking dish with plastic wrap or transfer the cake to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors meld even more as it sits, making it just as delicious the next day. Before serving leftovers, let the cake sit at room temperature for a few minutes to take the chill off.
- Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the cake. Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature before reheating. Freezing in individual portions makes it easy to enjoy a quick dessert whenever the craving strikes.
- Reheating: To reheat, simply pop a slice in the microwave for about 30 seconds, or until warmed through. For a crispier top, you can also reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. This will revive the texture and make it taste freshly baked. Adding a little butter on top before reheating can enhance the flavor and moisture.
This Caramel Apple Dump Cake is not just a recipe; it’s a little piece of comfort that brings warmth and joy to any table. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because, I hope it becomes a cherished tradition in your home, just as it has in mine. Enjoy every gooey, delicious bite!
Caramel Apple Dump Cake
This easy caramel apple dump cake is a delightful dessert that combines the flavors of apple pie and caramel cake, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread the apple pie filling evenly.
- Sprinkle the ground cinnamon and nutmeg evenly over the apples.
- Evenly scatter the halved caramels over the apple mixture.
- Pour the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the caramels and apples; do not stir.
- Place pats of butter evenly over the top of the cake mix.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the caramel is bubbly.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving to let the caramel set.
Nutrition
Calories: 430kcal
Notes
For a balanced flavor, use a mix of tart and sweet apple pie filling. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an indulgent dessert.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!