Easy Caramel Apple Dump Cake Recipe

a slice if caramel apple dump cake on a plate topped with ice cream and caramel sauce.

5 from 1 vote

When the air gets crisp, and you crave something warm and cozy, this caramel apple dump cake hits the spot! This recipe combines the festive flavors of apple, caramel, and cinnamon into an easy dessert that’s so simple to make, yet irresistibly delicious.

Prep Time5

Cook Time50

Total Time55

Course: Dessert

Servings: servings

Ingredients

1/2 cup homemade caramel sauce or store bought version, plus more for garnish
12 oz yellow or vanilla cake mix I used half of this gluten free yellow cake mix
3/4 cup butter melted

Apple Pie Filling

4 green apples
2 tbsp butter
1 tsp cinnamon
5 tbsp granulated sugar
1/4 cup water
1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water

Instructions

If making my homemade caramel sauce, make it first so it's set aside to cool while you work on the rest of the recipe.
1/2 cup homemade caramel sauce
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Make the apple pie filling: Peel, core, and chop the apples. Melt butter and cinnamon in a saucepan over medium heat, then stir in apples, sugar, and water. Cover and cook for 5-6 minutes, uncovering to stir every minute. In a small separate bowl, whisk together cornstarch with water. Add to the apples while stirring continuously. Remove from heat once the filling is thickened and bubbling.
4 green apples, 2 tbsp butter, 1 tsp cinnamon, 5 tbsp granulated sugar, 1/4 cup water, 1 tbsp cornstarch
Transfer the apple pie filling mixture to a 9x13 pan, and spread evenly.
Drizzle 1/2 cup of the caramel sauce over the filling mixture evenly.
Sprinkle the cake mix over the filling. Do not mix.
12 oz yellow or vanilla cake mix
Pour melted butter over the cake mix evenly, trying to cover as much of the cake mix as you can.
3/4 cup butter
Bake for 45 minutes until golden brown on top and bubbly on the sides.
Cool slightly and serve warm with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, and/or more caramel sauce.

Video

Notes

Slow Cooker Option: For a hands-off version, cook this dessert in a slow cooker on low for about 2-3 hours until bubbly and set.

Add Extra Spice: For even cozier flavors, try adding apple pie spice, a pinch of nutmeg, or allspice to the filling.

Crunchy Topping: Add chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the cake mix before baking for a delightful crunch that contrasts with the soft, gooey filling.

Salted Caramel Option: Try using salted caramel sauce for a salted caramel apple version, or sprinkle a bit of sea salt over the cake before serving to enhance the flavors.
Storage: This cake will keep for up to 5 days and can be reheated in the microwave for a quick and comforting treat. It can also be frozen! Just wrap it tightly and freeze for up to three months, then thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating in the oven.

Nutrition