Indulging in a Caramel Apple Dump Cake is like wrapping yourself in a warm, cozy blanket while the aroma of sweet apples and gooey caramel fills the air. Imagine slicing into that golden, buttery cake, revealing layers of spiced apple goodness that practically dance on your taste buds. This dessert is not just food; it’s an experience that transports you straight to an autumn orchard, regardless of the season.
When I first stumbled upon this Caramel Apple Dump Cake recipe, it was during a family gathering where everyone brought their “best” dish. Let me tell you, this delightful concoction completely stole the spotlight. With each bite, laughter filled the room as we reminisced about our childhoods and how desserts like these made every holiday feel just a little more special. delightful caramel apple float It’s perfect for cozy nights in or festive gatherings where everyone is ready to indulge in something truly scrumptious.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Caramel Apple Dump Cake Recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy bakers.
- The rich flavors of caramel paired with tender apples create a mouthwatering dessert that everyone will adore.
- Its visually stunning layers make it a centerpiece-worthy treat for any occasion.
- Plus, it’s versatile—you can serve it warm with ice cream or cold as leftovers!
Ingredients for Caramel Apple Dump Cake Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Yellow Cake Mix: A classic choice that gives the dump cake its fluffy texture; opt for a high-quality brand for best results.
- Canned Apple Pie Filling: For convenience and consistent flavor; choose one with cinnamon for added warmth.
- Caramel Sauce: Use store-bought or homemade—just ensure it’s smooth and rich for drizzling!
- Butter: Melted butter adds richness; don’t skimp on this essential ingredient for that decadent flavor.
- Chopped Nuts (optional): Walnuts or pecans add a lovely crunch; toast them lightly to enhance their flavor. For more inspiration, check out this pecan pie bars recipe.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Caramel Apple Dump Cake Recipe
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a baking dish—preferably a 9×13-inch one—and give it a light spray with nonstick cooking spray so nothing sticks!
Step 2: Layer the Apples
Spread the canned apple pie filling evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. You want those apples to shine like stars in the night sky.
Step 3: Add Some Sweetness
Next, drizzle half of your caramel sauce over the apple pie filling. Don’t be shy! Let it cascade down like autumn leaves falling from trees.
Step 4: Sprinkle That Cake Mix
Now’s the fun part! Sprinkle an even layer of yellow cake mix over the entire surface. No mixing required here—just let it sit there like an inviting cloud waiting for rain.
Step 5: Butter It Up
Melt your butter and pour it generously over the dry cake mix layer. The butter will seep through and create that wonderfully gooey goodness we love.
Step 6: Bake and Serve
Pop your masterpiece into the preheated oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes until golden brown and bubbly. Once out of the oven, let it cool slightly before serving with dollops of whipped cream or scoops of vanilla ice cream!
Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra caramel sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
And there you have it! Your very own Caramel Apple Dump Cake is not just a dessert; it’s a joyful celebration of flavors and memories. So gather around friends and family—this delectable treat is sure to become a cherished favorite at every gathering!
You Must Know
- This Caramel Apple Dump Cake Recipe is a delightful twist on traditional desserts.
- With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, it’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
- The irresistible combination of caramel and apples will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. While it warms up, peel and slice your apples. Toss them in cinnamon and sugar, then layer them at the bottom of your baking dish. Next, sprinkle dry cake mix evenly over the apples before drizzling melted butter on top.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this recipe by using different types of apples or even adding nuts for crunch. Swap out the cake mix for a gluten-free version or throw in some dried cranberries for an extra burst of flavor. For more inspiration, check out this baked apples recipe recipe.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave for about 30 seconds or warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly caramelized apples, let them sit with cinnamon and sugar for about 10 minutes before baking.
- Don’t skip the butter drizzle; it enhances flavor and creates that crunchy topping we all love.
- If you want a gooey texture, add extra caramel sauce before serving!
Sometimes I catch myself reminiscing about that one Thanksgiving when my aunt surprised everyone with this Caramel Apple Dump Cake. The delighted gasps when she unveiled it? Priceless! It instantly became our family favorite, and now it’s a must-have at every gathering.
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for the Caramel Apple Dump Cake Recipe?
For the Caramel Apple Dump Cake Recipe, you will need simple ingredients that are easy to find. Start with two cans of apple pie filling, a box of yellow cake mix, and unsalted butter. Additionally, gather caramel sauce and optional spices like cinnamon and nutmeg for extra flavor. You can also add chopped nuts for crunch. This recipe is incredibly forgiving and allows for variations based on your taste preferences.
How long does it take to prepare the Caramel Apple Dump Cake?
The preparation time for the Caramel Apple Dump Cake is quite short, making it perfect for any occasion. It typically takes about 15 minutes to gather and layer all the ingredients in your baking dish. Once you have everything ready, the cake needs to bake in the oven for approximately 45 to 50 minutes. In total, you can expect around an hour of time from start to finish.
Can I make variations of the Caramel Apple Dump Cake Recipe?
Absolutely! The Caramel Apple Dump Cake Recipe is versatile and open to various modifications. You can substitute apple pie filling with other fruit fillings like cherry or peach for a different taste. Adding nuts or even chocolate chips can elevate the flavor profile. comfort food options Additionally, feel free to experiment with different cake mixes, such as spice or chocolate cake mixes, to create unique versions of this delicious dessert.
How should I store leftover Caramel Apple Dump Cake?
To store leftover Caramel Apple Dump Cake properly, let it cool completely at room temperature first. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing individual portions. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
Conclusion for Caramel Apple Dump Cake Recipe:
In summary, the Caramel Apple Dump Cake Recipe is a delightful treat that combines ease of preparation with mouthwatering flavors. Using just a few simple ingredients, this dessert is perfect for gatherings or family dinners. perfect pairing with caramel flavors Its versatility allows for numerous variations tailored to personal tastes. savory appetizers for gatherings Whether enjoyed warm with vanilla ice cream or at room temperature, this dump cake is sure to impress everyone who tries it!
Caramel Apple Dump Cake
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves 12 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Caramel Apple Dump Cake is a warm, gooey dessert that combines tender apples and rich caramel beneath a golden cake layer. This easy-to-make treat is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to cozy nights in. Serve it warm with vanilla ice cream, and watch it become the star of your dessert table.
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 2 cans apple pie filling (21 oz each)
- 1 cup caramel sauce
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Spread apple pie filling evenly across the bottom of the dish.
- Drizzle half of the caramel sauce over the apples.
- Evenly sprinkle yellow cake mix on top without mixing.
- Pour melted butter over the cake mix layer.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes until golden brown and bubbly. Let cool slightly before serving with whipped cream or ice cream, drizzling extra caramel on top.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (140g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, toss apple pie filling with cinnamon before layering. - Swap yellow cake mix for spice or gluten-free versions. - Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
