Caramel Apple Dump Cake

Caramel Apple Dump Cake is the ultimate easy dessert that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Layers of spiced apple filling, rich caramel sauce, buttery cake mix, and crunchy walnuts bake together into a warm, gooey, crowd-pleasing treat. Perfect for fall gatherings, holidays, or anytime you want a cozy dessert without complicated steps.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No mixing bowls required — just layer and bake
• Warm apple-caramel flavors perfect for fall and holidays
• Beginner-friendly with simple pantry ingredients
• Golden, buttery topping with crunchy walnuts
• Great for feeding a crowd with minimal prep

Ingredients

• cooking spray
• 2 (21 ounce) cans apple pie filling
• ½ cup caramel sauce
• 1 (15.25 ounce) package spice cake mix
• 1 cup salted butter, melted
• 1 cup chopped walnuts

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Add the Apple Filling

Evenly spread both cans of apple pie filling across the bottom of the prepared baking dish, making sure the apples are distributed in an even layer.

Step 3: Drizzle with Caramel

Pour the ½ cup caramel sauce evenly over the apple pie filling. Use a spoon or spatula to gently spread it so every section gets caramel flavor.

Step 4: Add the Cake Mix

Sprinkle the dry spice cake mix evenly over the apple and caramel layer. Do not mix — keep the cake mix dry and evenly distributed across the surface.

Step 5: Add Butter

Slowly drizzle the melted salted butter over the cake mix, covering as much of the surface as possible. This helps the cake mix bake into a golden, crumbly topping.

Step 6: Top with Walnuts

Sprinkle the chopped walnuts evenly over the top for added crunch and texture.

Step 7: Bake

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Remove from the oven and let the dump cake cool for 10–15 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set slightly while staying warm and gooey.

Pro Tips and Variations

• Use extra caramel sauce for drizzling on top after baking
• Substitute walnuts with pecans if preferred
• Serve slightly underbaked for a gooier texture
• Add a pinch of cinnamon on top for extra spice

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with vanilla ice cream
• Top with whipped cream and extra caramel drizzle
• Pair with hot coffee or spiced cider for a cozy dessert

Storage / Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 4 days
• Reheat: Warm individual servings in the microwave for 20–30 seconds
• Freezing: Not recommended due to texture changes

FAQs

Can I use homemade apple filling?
Yes, as long as it’s thick and fully cooked.

What if my cake mix has dry spots?
Gently drizzle additional melted butter over dry areas.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, bake ahead and reheat before serving.

Conclusion

Caramel Apple Dump Cake is the definition of effortless comfort dessert. With warm spiced apples, rich caramel, buttery cake topping, and crunchy walnuts, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen — even though you didn’t.

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