Apple Pie Dump Cake – The Easiest Apple Dessert Ever

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Apple Pie Dump Cake is the ultimate dessert for when you crave something warm, comforting, and homemade without spending hours in the kitchen. True to its name, this recipe requires little effort—just “dump” the ingredients into a baking dish and let the oven do the work. With a base of sweet, spiced apple pie filling topped with buttery cake mix, it delivers all the cozy flavors of apple pie with the ease of a cake.

This dessert is perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or holiday dinners when you want a no-fuss recipe that still impresses. It’s versatile enough to be served plain, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or topped with whipped cream. The combination of tender apples, caramel-like sauce, and a golden, crumbly topping makes it irresistible. If you’re looking for a quick dessert that feels homemade but requires minimal effort, Apple Pie Dump Cake will become a staple in your recipe collection.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Apple Pie Filling – The star of the dessert, apple pie filling provides sweetness, spice, and tender fruit that bakes into a luscious base.

Yellow Cake Mix – A boxed cake mix creates the buttery, crumbly topping without the need for extra measuring or mixing. White or spice cake mix can also be used for variety.

Butter – Sliced or melted butter is layered over the cake mix to help it bake into a golden, crisp topping.

Cinnamon – Adds warmth and enhances the apple flavor, making the dessert even cozier.

Optional Add-Ins (Pecans, Walnuts, or Caramel Sauce) – Provide extra crunch and richness for a more indulgent version.

Directions

Preheat your oven and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the apple pie filling evenly over the bottom of the dish, then sprinkle ground cinnamon over the apples. If you want added crunch, mix in chopped nuts at this stage.

Evenly sprinkle the dry cake mix over the apple layer, making sure it covers the filling completely. Arrange thin slices of butter across the top, or drizzle melted butter evenly to ensure the topping bakes properly.

Bake until the topping is golden brown and crisp, and the apple filling is bubbling around the edges. Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving. The dessert is best enjoyed warm, paired with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgent finish.

Essential Equipment

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

• Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
• large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
• Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
• Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
• Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
• 9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
• knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
• Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 12–14 people. Preparation takes 5–10 minutes, baking requires 45–50 minutes, and cooling takes about 10 minutes. Total time is approximately 1 hour.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 30–40 seconds or warm larger portions in the oven at 325°F until heated through. This dessert can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Variations and Customizations

Apple Pie Dump Cake is endlessly customizable. For a spiced version, use spice cake mix instead of yellow cake mix. For extra richness, drizzle caramel sauce over the apple pie filling before adding the cake mix. Chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts add a pleasant crunch, while shredded coconut creates a tropical twist.

You can also experiment with different pie fillings—try cherry, blueberry, or peach for variety. To reduce sweetness, use a sugar-free cake mix and pie filling. For a more decadent option, add white chocolate chips or toffee bits on top before baking.

This recipe is a canvas for creativity, allowing you to tailor it to your tastes while keeping the preparation simple.

FAQs

Can I use fresh apples instead of pie filling?

Yes, but you’ll need to cook them down with sugar and spices to mimic pie filling.

Do I need to stir the layers together?

No, simply layer the ingredients and bake—no mixing required.

Can I use a different cake mix flavor?

Absolutely. Spice, white, or butter cake mix work beautifully.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, cook on high for 2–3 hours or on low for 4–5 hours until set.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?

Yes, assemble ahead, refrigerate, and bake when ready to serve.

How do I make it less sweet?

Use sugar-free pie filling and cake mix, or reduce the butter slightly.

What toppings go best with Apple Pie Dump Cake?

Vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or caramel drizzle are classic pairings.

Can I freeze Apple Pie Dump Cake?

Yes, freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

Will margarine work instead of butter?

Butter is recommended for the best flavor, but margarine can be used in a pinch.

How do I know when it’s done?

The topping should be golden brown, and the apple filling should bubble at the edges.

Conclusion

Apple Pie Dump Cake is the perfect marriage of convenience and flavor. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a dessert that tastes like it came from scratch. Its golden topping, spiced apple filling, and versatility make it a family-friendly favorite that works for both casual dinners and holiday gatherings. Whether served plain, with ice cream, or with a drizzle of caramel, this dessert delivers comfort and satisfaction in every bite.

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