If you’re craving a sweet treat that’s both easy and delicious, look no further! This Caramel Apple Dump Cake is a delightful mix of apples, caramel, and cake that will satisfy your taste buds. In just a few simple steps, you can create a warm dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get ready to whip up this scrumptious delight!
Ingredients
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this delicious treat. Here’s what you need:
– 2 cans (21 oz each) apple pie filling
– 3 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 box vanilla cake mix (15.25 oz)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)
– Ice cream or whipped cream for serving (optional)
The apple pie filling brings a sweet and fruity base. The ground cinnamon adds warmth and spice, making it cozy. Caramel sauce gives it richness and a sweet finish. The vanilla cake mix forms a soft, cake-like top. Melted butter helps the cake mix brown nicely in the oven. Chopped pecans add a tasty crunch, but you can skip them if you want. Lastly, serving it with ice cream or whipped cream makes it a true dessert delight.
For the full recipe, check out the detailed steps to create this scrumptious dessert.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for even baking. While the oven heats, take a 9×13 inch baking dish and grease it. Use cooking spray or butter for easy cleanup later.
Layering the Ingredients
Next, it’s time to build the flavor. Open your two cans of apple pie filling. Spread this filling evenly across the bottom of your baking dish. This layer is sweet and tart, giving a nice base. Now, sprinkle three teaspoons of ground cinnamon on top of the apple filling. This spice adds warmth and depth to the dish. Then, take your cup of caramel sauce and drizzle half of it over the apples. Watch the sauce soak in, making everything even more delicious.
Assembling the Dump Cake
Now, grab your box of vanilla cake mix. Open it and evenly sprinkle it over the apple and caramel layers. Do not mix it in; just let it sit on top. This layer will create a fluffy texture. Next, drizzle half a cup of melted butter over the cake mix. Make sure to cover as much as you can for a rich taste. If you like, sprinkle a cup of chopped pecans on top for some extra crunch.
Put your dish in the preheated oven. Bake for about 40-45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges bubble and the top turns golden brown. Once baked, let it cool for about 10 minutes. It’s now ready to serve. For a special touch, drizzle the remaining caramel sauce on top. Enjoy this warm treat with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra joy. For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Caramel Apple Dump Cake
To ensure even baking, spread the apple pie filling smoothly in the dish. The cinnamon layer adds a nice warmth, so sprinkle it evenly. For the top to turn golden, drizzle the melted butter carefully over the cake mix. This helps create a lovely crust. If you want to switch things up, consider adding chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy twist. You can even use spices like nutmeg for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cake warm. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream makes it even better. You can add more caramel sauce on top for a sweet touch. Serve the cake in bowls for a cozy feel. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon for a delightful finish. This not only looks nice but also enhances the taste.
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, let the cake cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for about three days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. You can also use the microwave for quick heating, but the oven gives a better texture. Enjoy the sweet taste of your homemade treat for days to come!
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can switch up the fruit in your dump cake. Try using peach or cherry pie filling instead of apple. You can even use mixed berries for a fresh twist. Want a unique flavor? Use lemon pie filling for a zesty kick.
If you’re looking for gluten-free options, choose a gluten-free cake mix. Many brands offer great choices. You can also substitute apple pie filling with homemade filling made from fresh apples. Just cook them with sugar and spices until soft.
Flavor Enhancements
To make your dump cake even better, consider adding nuts or chocolate. Chopped pecans or walnuts add a nice crunch. You can mix them into the cake or sprinkle them on top before baking.
If you love chocolate, try adding chocolate chips. Just sprinkle them over the cake mix before baking. You can also add spices like nutmeg or allspice for extra warmth.
Get creative with flavors! You can even drizzle some extra caramel sauce on top after baking. This adds a sweet touch that everyone will love.
Storage Info
Storing the Caramel Apple Dump Cake
To keep your caramel apple dump cake fresh, store it in an airtight container. You can leave it at room temperature for up to two days. If you want it to last longer, move it to the fridge. In the fridge, it can stay good for up to five days. Just make sure to cover it well to prevent it from drying out.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze the dump cake for longer storage. First, let it cool completely. Then, cut it into slices for easy use. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep well for up to three months in the freezer.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, take a slice out and let it thaw overnight in the fridge. If you want it warm, pop it in the microwave for about 30 seconds. Enjoy it as if it were fresh from the oven. Don’t forget, you can drizzle some caramel sauce on top before serving.
For the full recipe, check out the details above!
FAQs
How do I prevent the top from burning?
To stop the top from burning, keep an eye on the time. Check the cake around 35 minutes. If it looks too brown, cover it with foil. This helps cook the inside without burning the top. Bake until the edges bubble and the top is golden.
Can I use fresh apples instead of apple pie filling?
Yes, you can use fresh apples! Slice them thinly and toss with sugar and cinnamon. This will give them a nice flavor. Use about six cups of fresh apples for the cake. It may need a little more caramel for extra sweetness.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover dump cake?
To reheat the leftover dump cake, use the oven or the microwave. For the oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the cake in for about 15 minutes. If using the microwave, heat in 30-second bursts. Add a little caramel sauce to keep it moist.
To make a delicious Caramel Apple Dump Cake, follow these steps closely. Start with apple pie filling and add spices and sauces. Layer the cake mix, drizzle butter, and bake it until golden. Customize it with optional ingredients to fit your taste. Store leftovers well or freeze for future treats. Whether you serve it warm or cold, this dessert is a hit. Experiment with different fruits or toppings to find your favorite version. Happy baking!
