If you are craving a dessert that captures the cozy flavors of fall but comes together in a snap, then this Caramel Apple Dump Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine a luscious layer of tender apple pie filling mingling with soft caramel melting into sweet cake mix topped with golden butter and crunchy peanuts, all baked to bubbly perfection. It’s a masterclass in comforting simplicity, bringing together rich textures and warm, sweet flavors that feel like a hug on a plate. Whether you’re serving this for a family gathering or a casual weeknight treat, this dish promises decadent satisfaction with minimal fuss and maximum smiles.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Caramel Apple Dump Cake Recipe only requires a handful of pantry staples and classic dessert ingredients, each playing a vital role in building its irresistible flavor and texture. Every item is simple but essential, making this recipe approachable and perfect for whipping up anytime.
- 2 cans apple pie filling (20 oz each): The star fruit layer providing sweetness and that classic apple pie vibe.
- 14 ounces soft Kraft caramels, unwrapped: These melt into pockets of rich, gooey caramel goodness throughout the cake.
- 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 ounces): Acts as the base layer, turning crispy and golden on top while staying moist underneath.
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Helps the cake mix bake evenly and adds a luscious buttery flavor.
- 1/2 cup chopped peanuts: Adds a delightful crunch and slight saltiness that balances the sweet caramel and apples.
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce: Used for drizzling, intensifying the caramel flavor and making every bite extra decadent.
- Peanuts for garnish: A finishing touch for texture and visual appeal.
How to Make Caramel Apple Dump Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
First things first, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grab a 9×13 inch glass baking dish and spray the bottom generously with cooking spray. This ensures your Caramel Apple Dump Cake Recipe slides out easily after baking without sticking to the pan, setting you up for success from the start.
Step 2: Layer the Apple Pie Filling and Caramels
Spread both cans of apple pie filling evenly across the bottom of the prepared dish. Next, scatter the unwrapped soft caramels right on top of the apples. These little caramel pieces will slowly melt as it bakes, soaking into the filling and cake mix for a heavenly, sticky-sweet surprise in every bite.
Step 3: Add the Cake Mix and Butter
Now, sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the caramel-covered apples. Try to cover the entire surface for an even bake. Carefully pour the melted butter over the top, tilting the pan gently so the butter reaches as many spots as possible. This step is what crisps up the top and gives the cake its rich golden crust that contrasts perfectly with the soft fruit underneath.
Step 4: Sprinkle Peanuts and Bake
The final step before baking is to sprinkle your chopped peanuts evenly over the top. These add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that balances the sweetness brilliantly. Pop your dish into the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the top looks mostly dry and golden, with the edges bubbling temptingly.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Once out of the oven, let your dump cake cool for about 5 minutes. It’s best served warm so the caramel is deliciously gooey. For presentation and extra indulgence, drizzle caramel sauce over each serving and sprinkle a few extra peanuts on top.
How to Serve Caramel Apple Dump Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your Caramel Apple Dump Cake Recipe with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream right on top, allowing the coolness to counterbalance the warm, sweet cake. A light dusting of cinnamon or some freshly whipped cream also pairs beautifully, adding aroma and a fluffy texture contrast.
Side Dishes
While this dessert shines on its own, serving it alongside a rich cup of coffee or a glass of warm spiced apple cider amplifies its cozy charm. For a festive occasion, consider complementing it with a simple salad of crisp greens to balance the indulgence.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Caramel Apple Dump Cake Recipe in individual ramekins or mason jars. This makes it perfect for parties or potlucks and provides charming, personal-sized desserts that guests can enjoy straight from the container, no utensils needed. You can also layer it with whipped cream and caramel drizzle in a clear trifle dish for a stunning visual impact.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If by chance you have leftovers (which rarely happens!), cover your Caramel Apple Dump Cake with foil or transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy the comforting flavors again with ease.
Freezing
This dump cake freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to indulge again, thaw it overnight in the fridge. This makes your dessert flexible for planning ahead without losing any of its delicious character.
Reheating
To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave for about 30 seconds to a minute until the cake is heated through and the caramel is gooey again. For larger portions, reheat in the oven at 350 degrees for 10-15 minutes covered with foil to prevent the top from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts besides peanuts in this Caramel Apple Dump Cake Recipe?
Absolutely! Walnuts or pecans make excellent alternatives and bring their own unique flavor and crunch. Just toast them beforehand for added depth if you want.
Is it necessary to use a boxed cake mix?
Using a boxed yellow cake mix simplifies the process and gives you the perfect crumbly topping every time. However, if you prefer, you can make a homemade cake topping, but it may change the texture slightly.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix variety. Just be sure to check the apple pie filling and caramel ingredients for any hidden gluten to keep it safe.
What’s the best way to prevent the caramel from burning during baking?
Covering the caramel under the cake mix and drizzling melted butter over the top helps prevent burning because it creates a protective layer and distributes heat evenly.
Can this dessert be made vegan?
To adapt this recipe to vegan needs, you would need to use dairy-free butter, a vegan caramel (or homemade date caramel), and a vegan cake mix. The concept remains the same but requires careful selection of ingredients.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about a dessert that combines ease, comfort, and crowd-pleasing flavors, and this Caramel Apple Dump Cake Recipe hits every one of those marks beautifully. It’s like a shortcut to happiness in dessert form and perfect for anyone who loves the sweet taste of fall but doesn’t want to fuss in the kitchen. Give it a try and get ready for raves from everyone lucky enough to share a slice!
Print
Caramel Apple Dump Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings
Description
This Caramel Apple Dump Cake is a simple, delicious dessert perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. Made by layering apple pie filling, soft caramels, yellow cake mix, and melted butter, this easy-to-make treat bakes into a warm, bubbly dessert with a crispy cake topping and a rich caramel flavor. Garnished with chopped peanuts and drizzled caramel sauce, it’s ideal for family gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy night in, served best with vanilla ice cream.
Ingredients
Filling
- 2 cans (20 oz each) apple pie filling
- 14 ounces soft Kraft caramels, unwrapped
Cake Topping
- 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 ounces)
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Garnish
- 1/2 cup peanuts, chopped
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce
- Additional peanuts for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray the bottom of a 9×13 inch glass baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Layer Apple Pie Filling and Caramels: Spread the apple pie filling evenly over the bottom of the baking dish. Scatter the unwrapped soft caramels evenly on top of the apple layer.
- Add Cake Mix: Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix gently over the caramel and apple layers. Shake the pan lightly to distribute the cake mix evenly across the top.
- Pour Melted Butter: Slowly pour the melted unsalted butter over the cake mix layer. Tilt the pan as needed to help the butter coat as much of the surface as possible, which helps create the crispy top as it bakes.
- Sprinkle Peanuts: Evenly sprinkle the chopped peanuts over the top to add texture and a nutty flavor.
- Bake the Cake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. The cake is done when the top looks mostly dry and golden, and the edges are bubbly with the fruit filling.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes. This helps the dessert set slightly for easy serving.
- Garnish and Enjoy: Serve the dump cake warm, ideally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Drizzle caramel sauce over each serving and sprinkle with additional chopped peanuts for a perfect finishing touch.
Notes
- You can substitute the peanuts with walnuts or pecans if preferred or to accommodate allergies.
- Make sure the caramels are soft for easier melting and better texture integration with the apple filling.
- For a richer dessert, serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream as suggested.
- The cake can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
