Caramel Apple Dump Cake

Caramel apple dump cake is my quick fix when I want something warm, gooey and crowd pleasing with no fancy skills or equipment needed. With sweet apples, gooey caramel and crisp buttery topping, you get all the best fall flavors with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and less than ten minutes of prep.

First time I made this cake was for a family game night and everyone kept coming back for seconds until the whole pan vanished. Now it is our go-to dessert anytime I want something easy yet comforting.

Ingredients

• Apple pie filling: gives the cake a luscious fruity base Look for fillings packed with firm apple slices and not too much syrup
• Ground cinnamon: gives warmth and spice If using measure with care since a little goes a long way Choose true cinnamon for sweeter notes
• Caramel bits: melt into gooey pools It is worth hunting for baking caramel bits for best distribution If not available use soft wrapped caramels chopped into pieces
• Yellow cake mix: delivers a golden crumbly top I like brands with real butter flavor and simple ingredients to avoid any off aftertaste
• Butter slices: ensure the topping becomes crisp and golden Use good quality unsalted butter for the richest taste and slice evenly for even browning

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prepare:

Set your oven to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit Give your baking dish a good coating of butter or non-stick spray making sure to get corners and sides as well for easy serving later

Layer the Apples:

Spoon all the apple pie filling into the prepared dish Use a spatula to spread evenly from edge to edge so every part of the cake has fruit flavor If you love cinnamon sprinkle it now so it touches both fruit and caramel

Add the Caramel Bits:

Scatter the caramel bits or caramel pieces evenly over the top of the apples Try to cover as much surface as possible for gooey bites throughout

Add Cake Mix Layer:

Open your cake mix and sprinkle it straight from the bag evenly over the fruit and caramel Use a spatula or knife to gently smooth it but avoid stirring Keep dry powder fully covering the filling

Top with Butter:

Arrange your thin butter slices in rows to cover all the cake mix This helps every bite bake up golden and moist Take time to cover edges and middle evenly using more slices if needed

Bake to Perfection:

Place your pan on a center rack and bake uncovered Check at forty five minutes The cake is done when the topping looks crisp and deep golden and the filling is bubbling at the sides Remove and let cool at least ten minutes so it is easy to scoop

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Storage Tips

Once the cake is cool cover the dish with foil or transfer leftovers to an airtight container Store at room temperature for one day or in the refrigerator for up to four days Warm slices in the microwave for about twenty seconds for fresh from the oven flavor The cake actually softens and the caramel stays gooey so do not worry if day two or three

Ingredient Substitutions

No caramel bits Use wrapped caramels and chop them into small pieces for even distribution You can also drizzle store bought caramel sauce just before baking but the bits give you pockets of gooeyness Only have spice cake mix Use it for extra fall spice character If dairy is a concern use vegan butter but stick with real butter flavor for the best result

Serving Suggestions

This dessert loves ice cream Vanilla, cinnamon, or caramel ice cream turn it into something special Whipped cream dusted with cinnamon or toasted nuts adds a festive twist For a more rustic look just scoop and serve straight from the pan You can even spoon leftovers into mason jars for on-the-go treats

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Cultural and Historical Context

Dump cakes became a sensation in the mid twentieth century as a way to enjoy scratch baking flavor without the effort. They reflect home cooks’ creativity using boxed cake mixes and canned fruit for easy sweetness Caramel apple flavor in particular pays homage to classic county fair treats and crisp autumn days when apples are in season The style invites you to personalize and perfect based on your own pantry

Recipe FAQs

→ What kind of apples work best if I want to use fresh fruit?

For homemade fillings, choose tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a nice balance of sweetness and texture.

→ Can I substitute the caramel bits with another ingredient?

Yes, chopped soft caramel candies or caramel sauce can be used if caramel bits aren't on hand. Adjust the amount if using sauce to avoid sogginess.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave until warm.

→ Is it possible to make this dessert ahead of time?

Assemble ahead, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake. Add butter right before baking for best results.

→ Can I halve the amounts for a smaller batch?

Absolutely! Use one can of apple filling and a smaller baking dish, such as 8x8 inches, for a half batch.

→ Will spice cake mix work as a substitute?

Spice cake mix is a great choice for those wanting a warmer spice flavor throughout the dessert.