Caramel Apple Dump Cake

Caramel Apple Dump Cake is the perfect dessert for any occasion, blending the comforting flavors of fall into a simple, baked delight. This easy-to-make recipe transforms traditional apple pie into a delicious dump cake that can be prepared in just minutes. Whether you’re hosting a Thanksgiving feast or enjoying a cozy evening at home, this cake stands out with its rich caramel notes and warm spices, making it an instant favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy to Make: With minimal prep time, this recipe allows you to create a stunning dessert without the fuss.
• Flavorful Layers: The combination of apple pie filling and chewy caramel creates a delicious flavor explosion that everyone will adore.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it warm with vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat or enjoy it on its own as a sweet snack.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for holidays, family gatherings, or casual get-togethers, this cake pleases all palates.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With 12 servings, it’s perfect for sharing at parties or potlucks.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Caramel Apple Dump Cake, gather your kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• 9×13 baking dish
• Mixing spatula
• Measuring spoons
• Knife

Why These Tools Matter

• 9×13 baking dish: Provides ample space for the cake to rise and bake evenly.
• Mixing spatula: Ensures thorough mixing of ingredients while preventing messes.
• Measuring spoons: Guarantees accurate ingredient measurements for perfect flavor balance.

Ingredients

Caramel Apple Dump Cake is an easy to convert a classic pie into a conveniently prepared, dump and bake cake. So simple and can be made in minutes!

For the Cake Base

• 2 20-ounce cans apple pie filling
• ¼ teaspoon allspice
• ¼ teaspoon cinnamon

For the Topping

• ½ 10.8 ounce bag Werther’s Original Chewy Caramels (cut in half or similar sized caramels)
• 1 box super moist butter yellow cake mix
• ¾ cup salted butter (1 ½ sticks, cut into 15 squares)

Optional Serving Suggestion

• Vanilla ice cream for serving

How to Make Caramel Apple Dump Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While it heats up, spray your 9×13 baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling

• Dump both cans of apple pie filling into the prepared baking dish.
• Sprinkle allspice and cinnamon evenly over the apples.
• Use a spatula to stir and mix well before smoothing it down.

Step 3: Add Caramels

• Take half of the bag of caramels and cut them in half.
• Sprinkle these caramel pieces generously over the top of the apple mixture.

Step 4: Layer with Cake Mix

• Open your box of dry butter yellow cake mix.
• Evenly sprinkle it over the top of the caramel layer. Smooth it gently with your spatula.

Step 5: Top with Butter

• Evenly distribute cold butter pieces across the surface of the dry cake mix. This helps create that delicious golden crust.

Step 6: Bake Your Cake

Place your baking dish in the preheated oven. Allow it to bake uncovered for about 45 minutes. Rotate the pan halfway through cooking to ensure even baking.

Step 7: Check for Doneness

Your Caramel Apple Dump Cake is done when you see bubbling sides and a beautiful golden brown top. Enjoy this delightful dessert warm!

How to Serve Caramel Apple Dump Cake

Caramel Apple Dump Cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer it warm or cold, there are plenty of serving suggestions to enhance its flavors and presentation.

À la Mode

• Serve warm slices topped with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic combination that balances the warmth of the cake with the creaminess of the ice cream.

Whipped Cream Delight

• Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top for an extra layer of richness. This light addition complements the sweetness of the caramel and apples perfectly.

Caramel Drizzle

• Drizzle additional caramel sauce over each slice before serving. This will intensify the caramel flavor and add an appealing visual element.

Nutty Crunch

• Top with chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for added texture and flavor. The crunch pairs well with the soft cake and creamy toppings.

Fruit Garnish

• Use fresh apple slices or other seasonal fruits as a garnish. This adds a refreshing touch and enhances the overall presentation.

How to Perfect Caramel Apple Dump Cake

To ensure your Caramel Apple Dump Cake turns out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips that will elevate your baking experience.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality apple pie filling and caramels to enhance the overall taste of your cake.
• Layering Matters: Make sure to evenly distribute the dry cake mix on top for consistent baking and texture throughout.
• Check Doneness: Look for bubbling on the sides and a golden brown top as indicators that your cake is ready to come out of the oven.
• Allow Cooling Time: Let the cake sit for a few minutes after baking. This helps set the layers and makes it easier to serve.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add more spices like nutmeg or ginger for additional depth in flavor.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers covered in the fridge to maintain freshness, and reheat gently before serving again.

Best Side Dishes for Caramel Apple Dump Cake

While Caramel Apple Dump Cake is delicious on its own, pairing it with complementary side dishes can make your dessert spread even more delightful.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic partner that enhances the warm flavors of the cake while adding creaminess.
2. Cinnamon Sugar Pecans: These offer a sweet crunch that pairs beautifully with apple flavors.
3. Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing side that contrasts nicely with the richness of the dump cake.
4. Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites provide a tangy balance against the sweet dump cake.
5. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These add elegance and a burst of flavor perfect for special occasions.
6. Caramel Popcorn: A fun snack that echoes the caramel theme while providing a crunchy contrast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Caramel Apple Dump Cake, it’s easy to miss a few key steps. Avoid these common mistakes to ensure delicious results every time.

• Ignoring the oven temperature – Always preheat your oven to 350 degrees before baking. Skipping this step can lead to uneven cooking and a less-than-perfect cake.
• Not mixing the spices well – Sprinkle allspice and cinnamon evenly over the apple filling. If not mixed properly, some bites may lack flavor, while others might be too strong.
• Using cold butter – Ensure your butter is cold but not frozen when adding it on top of the dry cake mix. This helps create that delightful crumbly texture.
• Overbaking the cake – Keep an eye on the baking time and check for bubbling sides and golden brown color. Overbaking can dry out your cake.
• Skipping the stirring step – Failing to stir the apple pie filling with spices can result in uneven distribution of flavors. Make sure to mix well before adding other ingredients.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• The cake will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Caramel Apple Dump Cake

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Caramel Apple Dump Cake

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350 degrees and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm throughout.
• Microwave – Heat individual portions on high for about 30-45 seconds, checking for warmth.
• Stovetop – Place slices on a skillet over low heat until warmed through, which adds a nice crispy edge.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Caramel Apple Dump Cake?

Caramel Apple Dump Cake is a simple dessert made by layering apple pie filling, caramel, and cake mix, then baking until golden brown. It’s perfect for fall gatherings!

Can I use homemade apple pie filling?

Yes! You can absolutely use homemade apple pie filling if you prefer a fresh taste over canned options.

How do I customize my Caramel Apple Dump Cake?

Feel free to add nuts or extra spices like nutmeg or ginger for more flavor. You can also substitute different fruits based on your preference!

What should I serve with Caramel Apple Dump Cake?

It’s delicious on its own but pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for added indulgence!

Conclusion

Caramel Apple Dump Cake is an effortless dessert that combines classic flavors with minimal effort. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your taste preferences, making it ideal for any occasion. Give this delightful recipe a try today; you won’t be disappointed!