This Caramel Apple Dump Cake is an easy and sweet treat that everyone loves! Simply mix cake mix, apples, and gooey caramel for a dessert that’s both comforting and delicious.
I can’t resist the warm, buttery smell that fills my kitchen while it bakes. Serve it with ice cream, and watch it disappear in minutes—it’s a crowd-pleaser for sure! 🍏🍦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: For a balance of sweet and tart, I love using Granny Smith apples. They hold their shape well while baking. If you prefer sweeter apples, Fuji or Honeycrisps can work too. Just make sure to peel and dice them for even cooking.
Brown Sugar: Light brown sugar adds a lovely caramel flavor. You can substitute with granulated sugar if necessary, but it won’t have quite the same depth. Dark brown sugar also works for a more intense flavor!
Cake Mix: A yellow cake mix is traditional, but you can use a white cake mix for a lighter taste. For a gluten-free option, grab a gluten-free cake mix. You can also make your own cake mix from scratch if you’re up for it!
Caramel Sauce: Using store-bought caramel is convenient, but nothing beats homemade. If you’re pressed for time, just a drizzle of honey or maple syrup can also add sweetness.
How Do I Get the Perfect Texture for My Dump Cake?
Getting that amazing texture in a dump cake means layering your ingredients correctly. Here’s how you can ensure everything turns out perfectly:
- Start with well-diced apples to allow even cooking. Toss them in sugar and spices beforehand to ensure flavors meld.
- When sprinkling the dry cake mix, avoid mixing it in. This creates a nice crust as it bakes.
- Drizzling melted butter is key for that crisp topping. Make sure to cover the cake mix evenly for the best results.
- Check for doneness by ensuring the top is golden and the apples are bubbling—this means they’re cooked through.
Following these tips will help you bake a deliciously gooey and comforting Caramel Apple Dump Cake that everyone will love!
How to Make Caramel Apple Dump Cake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cake:
- 6 cups peeled and diced apples (about 6 medium apples, preferably Granny Smith or your favorite baking variety)
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 (15.25 oz) box yellow cake mix (dry)
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Vanilla ice cream, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Caramel Apple Dump Cake requires about 15 minutes of prep time and 45–50 minutes of baking time. So, you’ll be enjoying this warm treat from start to finish in about an hour. Perfect for a cozy dessert!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Make sure to prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by lightly greasing it to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Apples:
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir until the apples are nicely coated with the sugar and spices for that delicious flavor.
3. Spread the Apple Mixture:
Evenly spread the apple mixture across the bottom of your greased baking dish. Make sure it’s layered out flat so every bite is filled with apples!
4. Add the Cake Mix:
Next, sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the top of the apples. It’s important not to stir this mixture. It’s called “dump” cake for a reason—layering is key!
5. Drizzle with Butter:
Now, take your melted butter and drizzle it evenly over the cake mix. This will help create a delightful crispy top while it bakes.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for about 45–50 minutes. You want the top to be golden brown and the apples to be bubbly and tender.
7. Add the Caramel:
Once it’s done, carefully take the cake out of the oven and immediately drizzle caramel sauce over the top. This will soak in and enhance that lovely flavor!
8. Cool and Serve:
Allow the cake to cool for a few minutes before serving. It’s best enjoyed warm! Serve each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and an extra drizzle of caramel sauce if you’re feeling indulgent.
This Caramel Apple Dump Cake is a wonderful treat filled with soft, spiced apples and a crunchy cake topping, finished off perfectly with creamy ice cream. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples are ideal for their tartness and firmness, you can use any baking apples you prefer, such as Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn. Just keep in mind that sweeter apples may require a little less sugar.
Can I Make This Dump Cake Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the apple mixture and assemble everything in the baking dish ahead of time. Just cover it with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.
What If I Don’t Have Caramel Sauce?
No worries! If you don’t have caramel sauce on hand, you can use melted chocolate, or a drizzle of honey or maple syrup as an alternative. They will add a different flavor but still complement the dish beautifully!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through. You may want to add an extra drizzle of caramel or a scoop of ice cream when serving to freshen it up!
