It’s that time of year again when autumn rolls in like a cozy sweater, and the air smells of cinnamon, nutmeg, and all things pumpkin spice. But hold onto your flannel shirts because we’re about to dive into a dessert that takes the fall spirit to a whole new level! Imagine warm caramel oozing over tart apples nestled under a fluffy cake layer—yes, you guessed it! It’s time for my Caramel Apple Dump Cake Recipe, and trust me, your taste buds are going to throw a party. For more inspiration, check out this baked apples recipe recipe.
As I reminisce about family gatherings where the dessert table looked like a scene from a food magazine, I can’t help but smile. Each bite of this cake brings back memories of laughter, cozy evenings by the fireplace, and the sweet aroma wafting through the house. Perfect for Thanksgiving, Sunday potlucks, or just because it’s Tuesday (because who needs an excuse for dessert?), this dish promises to deliver flavor that dances on your tongue and warmth that wraps around your heart.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Caramel Apple Dump Cake is incredibly easy to prepare—just dump and bake!
- The flavor profile combines sweet and tart notes that create a delightful balance.
- Its golden-brown crust and gooey caramel make it visually stunning for any occasion.
- Enjoy it warm with ice cream or as is; it’s versatile enough for any dessert lover’s palate.
Ingredients for Caramel Apple Dump Cake Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Apples: About 4 medium-sized apples work best—a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp adds the perfect balance of tartness and sweetness.
- Caramel Sauce: Use store-bought or homemade; just ensure it’s thick enough to create that luscious layer of gooey goodness.
- Cake Mix: A standard yellow cake mix will do wonders here; no need for fancy-schmancy kinds unless you’re feeling adventurous.
- Butter: Melted butter adds richness; stick with unsalted to keep control over the saltiness of the final product.
- Cinnamon: A sprinkle of cinnamon elevates the flavor profile; feel free to adjust based on your love for spice.
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
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, grab a baking dish (9×13 inches works well) and spray it with nonstick cooking spray to prevent any sticky situations later.
Step 2: Prepare Your Apples
Peel, core, and slice those apples into thin wedges. Toss them in a bowl with a pinch of cinnamon and a splash of lemon juice if you want them extra zesty. Spread these apple slices evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish.
Step 3: Add the Caramel
Drizzle half of your caramel sauce over those beautiful apple slices. Watch as they soak up all that gooey goodness! It’s like giving each apple slice a warm hug.
Step 4: Sprinkle the Cake Mix
Now comes the fun part—time to dump! Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the apples and caramel layer. No need to stir; we’re keeping things simple here.
Step 5: Pour on That Butter
Melt your butter in the microwave (about 30 seconds should do). Drizzle it evenly over the dry cake mix. This step is crucial as it creates that golden crust on top—think crispy topping meets soft apple filling!
Step 6: Bake Away
Pop your creation into the oven and bake for about 40-45 minutes until it’s bubbly and golden brown on top. Your kitchen will smell divine during this time—consider yourself warned!
Finally, let it cool slightly before serving. Transfer generous portions onto plates or bowls (or just eat straight from the pan if no one’s watching). Drizzle with remaining caramel sauce if you’re feeling indulgent!
Now sit back and enjoy every mouthful while reminiscing about those cozy family gatherings because this Caramel Apple Dump Cake isn’t just dessert—it’s an experience waiting to happen!
You Must Know
- This delightful Caramel Apple Dump Cake recipe combines the flavors of fall with minimal effort.
- It’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, and you can easily adjust ingredients to suit your taste.
- The rich caramel and sweet apples create a treat that’s hard to resist.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, gather your ingredients: cake mix, apple pie filling, and caramel sauce. Layer the apple filling in a baking dish, sprinkle the cake mix on top, and drizzle with caramel before baking to perfection.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this Caramel Apple Dump Cake recipe by adding chopped nuts, a dash of cinnamon, or even swapping apple filling for peach or cherry. You can also try using a spice cake mix for an extra flavor twist!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply 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
- Use fresh apples alongside the pie filling for added texture and flavor.
- Don’t skip the caramel drizzle; it makes all the difference!
- Let the cake cool slightly before serving for better texture and easier slicing.
I remember the first time I made this Caramel Apple Dump Cake for my family. Their faces lit up like kids on Christmas morning when they tasted that gooey sweetness!
FAQs
What is a Caramel Apple Dump Cake Recipe?
A Caramel Apple Dump Cake Recipe is a simple dessert that combines the flavors of sweet apples and rich caramel in a quick and easy format. It typically involves layering ingredients like canned apple pie filling, cake mix, and caramel sauce in a baking dish. delicious dulce de leche fondue The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—just dump the ingredients together and let the oven do the work. This makes it an ideal choice for busy bakers looking for a delicious treat without extensive preparation.
How long does it take to make Caramel Apple Dump Cake?
Making a Caramel Apple Dump Cake takes approximately 10-15 minutes of prep time, followed by about 45-50 minutes of baking time. You can enjoy this delightful dessert within an hour after starting. Just gather your ingredients, layer them in your baking dish, and pop it into the oven. Once baked, allow it to cool slightly before serving to enhance the flavors even more.
Can I use fresh apples instead of canned filling for the Caramel Apple Dump Cake Recipe?
Yes, you can definitely use fresh apples instead of canned filling in your Caramel Apple Dump Cake Recipe. If you choose this route, slice your apples thinly and toss them with sugar and cinnamon for added flavor before layering them in the dish. Fresh apples will give your cake a delightful texture and a vibrant taste. However, keep in mind that using fresh fruit may require slight adjustments to baking time.
What should I serve with my Caramel Apple Dump Cake?
Serving suggestions for your Caramel Apple Dump Cake are endless! A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds creaminess and contrasts nicely with the warm cake. Whipped cream or a drizzle of extra caramel sauce enhances the flavors further. For a gourmet touch, consider sprinkling chopped nuts or adding a sprinkle of cinnamon on top before serving. These additions elevate your dessert experience while complementing the cake’s rich flavors.
Conclusion for Caramel Apple Dump Cake Recipe
In conclusion, the Caramel Apple Dump Cake Recipe is an effortless yet indulgent dessert perfect for any occasion. Its straightforward preparation allows anyone to create a delicious treat without fussing over complicated steps. Remember to layer your ingredients properly for optimal flavor distribution and consider serving it warm with ice cream or whipped cream for an extra special touch. fudgy banana bread brownies no churn banana ice cream With this recipe, you can savor the delightful combination of caramel and apple in every bite!
Caramel Apple Dump Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Makes about 12 servings 1x
Description
Caramel Apple Dump Cake is the ultimate fall dessert that brings together the warm flavors of tart apples, rich caramel, and a buttery cake topping. This easy-to-make recipe requires minimal effort—just dump and bake! Perfect for gatherings or cozy evenings at home, every bite offers a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Ingredients
- 4 medium Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples (peeled, cored, and sliced)
- 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Spread the sliced apples evenly in the bottom of the dish and sprinkle with cinnamon.
- Drizzle half of the caramel sauce over the apples.
- Evenly sprinkle the dry cake mix over the apple layer without stirring.
- Drizzle melted butter over the cake mix to create a golden crust.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving with remaining caramel.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (approximately 112g)
- Calories: 246
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 195mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
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