Introduction
There is something comforting about a dessert that comes together effortlessly yet tastes like a warm hug. Apple dump cake is exactly that—simple, rustic, and impossibly delicious. This recipe is inspired by a memory shared by Ella Chef, who recalled her grandmother teaching her that “the best desserts don’t need perfection, just heart.” On chilly evenings, they would layer apples, cinnamon, and cake mix into a pan, laughing as the kitchen filled with the sweet aroma of baked apples. Today, that same joy lives on in this easy apple dump cake, perfect for busy days and cozy nights alike.
Easy Apple Dump Cake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread apple slices evenly in a baking pan.
- Sprinkle cinnamon and brown sugar over the apples.
- Pour dry yellow cake mix evenly over the apples—do not stir.
- Drizzle melted butter across the top to moisten the mix.
- Bake for 45 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
Nutrition
Notes
How to Make Apple Dump Cake (300 Words)
Apple dump cake is one of the easiest desserts you can make, yet it tastes like something you spent hours preparing. To begin, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and choose a medium-sized baking pan—either metal or glass works well. Lightly grease the pan to ensure your cake lifts easily after baking.
Spread a generous layer of apple slices across the bottom of the pan. You can use fresh apples thinly sliced for a more rustic texture, or canned apple pie filling for a sweeter, softer base. Sprinkle ground cinnamon and brown sugar evenly over the apples. This adds warmth, depth, and a caramel-like flavor as the cake bakes.
Next comes the magic step that makes dump cake famous: simply pour a box of dry yellow cake mix evenly over the apples. Do not stir. Resist the urge to mix everything together—dump cake relies on layering. The dry cake mix will combine with the apple juices and butter as it bakes, creating a beautifully textured crust.
Melt your butter and drizzle it evenly over the top of the dry mix. Cover as much surface as possible—any dry spots might stay powdery. If you want added crunch, sprinkle pecans on top at this stage.
Bake the cake for about 45 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and you can see the apple filling bubbling around the edges. Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving. The texture will be slightly crisp on top with a tender, gooey apple base underneath.
Serve warm for the best experience. Pair it with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream to create a dessert that tastes like pure comfort in every bite.
Conclusion
Apple dump cake is the perfect dessert for anyone who wants maximum flavor with minimal effort. Its simple layering method creates a warm, comforting treat filled with cinnamon-spiced apples and a golden, buttery topping. Inspired by Ella Chef’s childhood memories, this recipe captures the joy of easy, heartwarming baking. Whether you’re hosting guests, craving something cozy, or looking for a no-fuss dessert, this apple dump cake will never disappoint. Serve it warm, top it with ice cream, and enjoy a dessert that feels like a hug in every spoonful.