If you love the cozy flavors of baked apples, caramel, and buttery cake, this Caramel Apple Dump Cake will steal your heart—and maybe even your spot as the family’s favorite baker. This dessert brings together everything we love about fall in one simple, no-fuss recipe: warm spiced apples, gooey caramel, and a crisp, golden cake topping.
The best part? It’s incredibly easy. No mixing bowls, no complicated steps—just “dump” the ingredients into your baking dish and let your oven do the magic. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering, a potluck, or just craving something sweet on a chilly night, this dessert is guaranteed to impress without the stress.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Foolproof recipe: No electric mixer, no cake batter prep—just layer and bake.
- Short ingredient list: Simple store-bought items turn into a bakery-quality dessert.
- Perfect for fall: Filled with cinnamon-spiced apples and warm caramel.
- Feeds a crowd: Great for holidays, potlucks, or family gatherings.
About the Ingredients
Apple Pie Filling
Two cans of apple pie filling create the sweet, tender fruit base. It’s the perfect shortcut for classic apple pie flavor without the work.
Ground Cinnamon & Nutmeg
These spices add warmth and depth—especially perfect for autumn.
Yellow or Spice Cake Mix
Skip the prep—just sprinkle it straight from the box. Yellow cake mix gives a buttery, classic flavor, while spice cake mix adds extra warmth.
Caramel Bits or Soft Caramels
Melted caramel creates a sweet, gooey layer between the apples and the cake. If using soft caramels, mix them with a splash of cream for smoothness.
Unsalted Butter
Thinly sliced butter melts into the dry cake mix, creating a crisp, golden topping that’s buttery and irresistible.
Pecans or Walnuts
These add crunch and nutty flavor, enhancing the cake's texture.
Old-Fashioned Oats
Oats bring texture and a hint of chewiness to the topping.
Tips & Tricks
Slice Butter Evenly
Thin pats of butter spread more evenly during baking, ensuring a golden crust.
Don't Stir the Layers
The magic of a dump cake is in the layering—stirring ruins the texture.
Use Caramel Bits for Ease
They melt evenly and save time compared to unwrapping caramels.
Pro Tips
- Cool before serving: Letting the cake rest helps the filling set and makes serving easier.
- Add ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream transforms this dessert into a showstopper.
- Pair with coffee: A hot cup of coffee enhances the cake's warm flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare Your Baking Dish
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
Layer the Apple Filling
Spread both cans of apple pie filling evenly into the dish. Sprinkle cinnamon and nutmeg over the apples, then stir lightly to blend.
Add the Cake Mix
Evenly sprinkle the dry cake mix across the apple filling. Do not stir—just spread it into an even layer.
Create the Caramel Layer
If using soft caramels, melt them with 3 tablespoons of heavy cream in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth.
Finish with Butter and Extras
Drizzle caramel sauce or scatter caramel bits evenly over the cake mix. Add nuts or oats if desired. Slice butter into thin pats and arrange them evenly across the top. The butter will melt into the cake mix as it bakes.
Bake to Perfection
Bake for 45–55 minutes until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
Cool and Serve
Let the cake cool for 15–20 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Delicious Variations
Add Chocolate Chips
Sprinkle chocolate chips over the caramel layer for a rich, decadent twist.
Use Different Pie Fillings
Try cherry or peach pie filling for a delightful change in flavor.
Spiced Nut Topping
Mix chopped nuts with cinnamon and sugar before adding them for an extra spiced crunch.
How to Store Caramel Apple Dump Cake
Refrigerator
Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave for a warm treat.
Freezer
Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Room Temperature
Keep covered at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Reheating
Reheat in the oven at 300°F for 10–15 minutes or until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Bake the dump cake a few hours in advance, then reheat it in the oven at 300°F for 10–15 minutes before serving.
Can I use homemade apple pie filling?
Absolutely. Homemade filling adds an extra touch of flavor—just make sure it’s not too runny.
What’s the best cake mix to use?
Both yellow and spice cake mixes work beautifully. Yellow offers a buttery, classic flavor, while spice cake enhances the fall spices.
How do I know when it’s done?
The top should be golden brown and crisp, with bubbling caramel around the edges.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Butter is recommended for the best flavor and texture, but you can use margarine in a pinch.