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Apple Dump Cake

Apple dump cake is the easiest fall dessert you will ever make, combining tender cinnamon apples with buttery cake topping in one simple pan. This no-fuss recipe requires just five ingredients and about five minutes of prep time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 285
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 2 cans 21 ounces each apple pie filling
  • 1 box 15.25 ounces yellow cake mix, dry and unmixed
  • 1 cup 2 sticks unsalted butter, sliced into thin pats
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts optional

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Can opener
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Measuring spoons
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Aluminum foil (optional)

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease your 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
  2. Open both cans of apple pie filling and pour them into the prepared baking dish, spreading them into an even layer across the bottom.
  3. Mix the cinnamon and nutmeg together in a small bowl, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the apple filling layer.
  4. Pour the entire box of dry cake mix directly over the spiced apples, spreading it gently with your hands or a spatula to create an even layer that covers all the filling. Do not mix or stir anything together.
  5. Slice your butter into thin pats (about 1/4 inch thick) and arrange them across the entire surface of the cake mix, covering as much area as possible.
  6. If using nuts, sprinkle the chopped pecans or walnuts evenly over the butter layer.
  7. Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, until the top turns deep golden brown and you can see the edges bubbling.
  8. Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for 10 to 15 minutes before serving.

Notes

For extra crispy edges, use a metal baking pan instead of glass and place it on the lower oven rack. Cut your butter slices as thin as possible and distribute them evenly across every inch of cake mix for uniform golden browning. Resist the urge to stir or mix anything once layers are in the pan. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream for the best experience.