A Cinnamon Apple Dump Cake is the ultimate quick-and-easy dessert that combines the sweet and tangy flavors of apples with the warm, spicy kick of cinnamon. This delightful treat requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. With its tender, juicy apple filling and a buttery, golden-brown topping, it’s a crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless to Make: No need for complicated techniques or special equipment—just layer the ingredients and bake!
Minimal Cleanup: As the name suggests, everything is “dumped” into one dish, keeping cleanup to a minimum.
Versatile: This recipe works for any season but shines during fall when apples are at their peak.
Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of cinnamon, apples, and buttery cake is a universal favorite.
Customizable: You can tweak the ingredients to suit dietary needs or flavor preferences.

Ingredients

Canned apple pie filling
Ground cinnamon
Yellow cake mix
Unsalted butter
Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with butter or cooking spray.
Prepare the Filling: Spread the canned apple pie filling evenly across the bottom of the prepared dish. Sprinkle ground cinnamon generously over the apple filling for an added depth of flavor.
Add the Cake Mix: Open the box of yellow cake mix and sprinkle it evenly over the apple pie filling, covering the fruit entirely.
Top with Butter: Slice the unsalted butter into thin pats and place them evenly across the top of the cake mix. This ensures a rich and golden topping as the butter melts and combines with the cake mix during baking.
Add Nuts (Optional): For a crunchy texture and nutty flavor, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the butter layer.
Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling around the edges.
Cool and Serve: Allow the dump cake to cool slightly before serving. Scoop it out warm into bowls, optionally topping with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Variations

Fruit Substitutions: Replace apple pie filling with cherry, blueberry, or peach pie filling for a different flavor profile.
Spiced Twist: Add a teaspoon of nutmeg or allspice to the cinnamon for a more robust spice blend.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cake mix to cater to dietary restrictions.
Healthier Option: Substitute a reduced-sugar pie filling and use half the butter for a lighter version.
Nut-Free: Omit the nuts if allergies are a concern or for a smoother texture.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
Total Time: 50-55 minutes
Servings: 8-10

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftover dump cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Warm leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 30-45 seconds.

FAQs

What is a dump cake?

A dump cake is a simple dessert where ingredients are layered in a baking dish without mixing, resulting in a cobbler-like texture.

Can I make this cake in advance?

Yes, you can bake it a day ahead. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat it before serving.

Do I have to use canned apple pie filling?

No, you can use homemade apple pie filling or fresh apples mixed with sugar and cinnamon.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Yes, but butter is recommended for a richer flavor.

What type of apples work best if I use fresh ones?

Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji apples are great choices for their balance of sweetness and tartness.

Is it necessary to use a yellow cake mix?

No, white or spice cake mix can also be used for variety.

How can I prevent the cake mix from staying dry?

Make sure the butter pats are distributed evenly across the cake mix. Adding a drizzle of melted butter can also help.

What toppings go well with this dessert?

Vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce are excellent additions.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1-1.5 hours until the topping is cooked through.

Can this recipe be doubled?

Absolutely! Use a larger baking dish and adjust the baking time slightly if needed.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Apple Dump Cake is the perfect solution for a quick, delicious dessert that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Its warm, spiced apples paired with a buttery, golden topping make it an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you serve it straight from the oven with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoy it chilled, this dessert is sure to become a household favorite. Try it today and see just how easy and satisfying this recipe can be!

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