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Apple Dump Cake (Warm, Buttery, and Effortlessly Comforting)
Isla Marie

Apple Dump Cake

A warm, buttery apple dump cake made with tender apples, cinnamon, and a golden cake topping. This easy, no-mix dessert delivers cozy flavor with minimal effort and is perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or holidays.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 8
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 430

Ingredients
  

  • 2 21 oz cans apple pie filling or 6 cups thinly sliced apples
  • 1 box yellow or spice cake mix
  • ¾ cup unsalted butter thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Optional: ¼ teaspoon nutmeg ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts

Equipment

  • 9×13-inch baking dish
  • Knife (for slicing butter)
  • Oven

Method
 

Step 1. Preheat and Prep
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease the baking dish.
Step 2. Add the Apples
  1. Spread the apple pie filling (or sliced apples) evenly in the dish. Sprinkle with cinnamon and nutmeg if using.
Step 3. Add the Cake Mix
  1. Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the apples. Do not stir.
Step 4. Add the Butter
  1. Arrange butter slices evenly over the cake mix, covering as much surface as possible.
Step 5. Bake
  1. Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, until the top is golden and apples are bubbling around the edges.
Step 6. Rest and Serve
  1. Let cool for 15 minutes to set slightly, then serve warm.

Notes

  • Do not stir the layers; the texture depends on proper layering.
  • If using fresh apples, add ¼ cup sugar and 1 tablespoon lemon juice for balance.
  • Serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for contrast.