Apple Pie Dump Cake Recipe

Want apple pie without all the work? This apple pie dump cake is the easiest shortcut ever. Sweet, cozy, and smells so good while baking.

It’s loaded with soft apples, warm spices, and a buttery cake topping. Just dump, bake, and dig in. No rolling, no fuss.

Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or a lazy Sunday treat. It’s quick, simple, and always a crowd-pleaser.

Let’s grab a pan and get baking. Cozy apple pie magic is just a few steps away!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ridiculously Easy: Just layer and bake—no mixing, no fuss.
• Cozy Comfort: Warm cinnamon apples topped with a buttery, golden crust.
• Crowd-Pleaser: A simple yet satisfying dessert that always disappears quickly.
• Versatile: Delicious on its own or topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time & Cook Time:

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Bake Time: 45–50 minutes
• Total Time: About 1 hour

Servings:

• Makes about 12 servings—perfect for a family gathering or meal prep for sweet snacks.

Difficulty:

• Extremely easy—ideal for beginner bakers and kids helping in the kitchen.

Required Kitchen Tools

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Measuring cups (for butter)
• Spatula or spoon
• Oven mitts
• Knife (for slicing butter)

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this simple and delicious dessert:

• 2 (21-ounce) cans apple pie filling — full of cinnamon-spiced apples.
• 1 (15.25-ounce) box yellow cake mix — creates the sweet, crumbly topping.
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted — brings richness and helps crisp the topping.

Variations for Apple Pie Dump Cake

• Spice It Up: Sprinkle cinnamon, nutmeg, or apple pie spice over the filling for extra warmth.
• Add Nuts: Scatter chopped pecans or walnuts over the cake mix before baking for a crunchy topping.
• Mix in Caramel: Drizzle caramel sauce over the apple pie filling for a richer, sweeter twist.
• Use Different Cake Mix: Try spice cake mix or white cake mix instead of yellow for a different flavor.
• Make It Tart: Use a tart apple pie filling if you prefer a less sweet dessert.

How to Make Apple Pie Dump Cake: Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.

2. Add the Apple Pie Filling

Pour the two cans of apple pie filling into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula or spoon.

3. Sprinkle the Cake Mix

Evenly sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over the apple pie filling. Make sure to cover the entire surface without mixing it in.

4. Drizzle the Butter

Slowly drizzle the melted butter over the top of the cake mix. Try to cover as much of the dry mix as possible to help it bake evenly.

5. Bake

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

6. Cool Slightly

Allow the cake to cool for about 10–15 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes it easier to scoop.

Serving and Decoration

How to Serve Apple Pie Dump Cake

This warm and cozy dessert pairs beautifully with a few simple toppings:

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The cold, creamy texture melts into the warm cake perfectly.
• Whipped Cream: Adds a light and airy touch.
• Caramel Drizzle: For an extra sweet and gooey finish.
• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts for added crunch.

Scoop it straight from the baking dish and serve warm for the best experience.

Storing Apple Pie Dump Cake

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with foil. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheat: Warm individual servings in the microwave for about 20–30 seconds or until heated through.
• Freeze: You can freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Even Butter Coverage: Make sure the melted butter is spread as evenly as possible across the cake mix to avoid dry spots.
• Don’t Stir: Resist the urge to mix the cake mix into the filling. Layering is key to creating the perfect topping.
• Watch the Bake Time: Start checking at 45 minutes. The top should be lightly golden and firm, but not too dark.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving (approx.)
Calories	320
Total Fat	12g
Saturated Fat	7g
Cholesterol	30mg
Sodium	350mg
Total Carbohydrates	52g
Dietary Fiber	1g
Sugars	32g
Protein	2g

(Nutrition values are estimates and can vary based on specific brands and ingredients used.)

Apple Pie Dump Cake FAQs

Can I use homemade apple pie filling?
Absolutely! If you have homemade filling on hand, it works just as well and gives an even fresher taste.

What if I don’t have yellow cake mix?
You can use white, spice, or butter cake mix instead for a different flavor.

Do I need to stir the cake mix into the filling?
No. Just sprinkle it over the top—no mixing needed.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it and refrigerate it unbaked for a few hours. Add a few minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.

Conclusion

This Apple Pie Dump Cake is proof that simple ingredients can create something magical. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, looking for a quick weeknight dessert, or just craving something sweet and cozy, this recipe delivers every time. Keep it in your back pocket for whenever you need a little taste of homemade comfort without the effort.