Ultimate 4-Ingredient Caramel Apple Dump Cake

Name: Ultimate 4-Ingredient Caramel Apple Dump Cake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (21 ounce) can apple pie filling; 1 (15.25 ounce) box yellow cake mix; 1 cup caramel bits or chips; 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted

Indulge in the sweet, comforting flavors of the Ultimate 4-Ingredient Caramel Apple Dump Cake. This delightful dessert combines the warmth of spiced apple filling with the rich, creamy taste of caramel, all nestled under a buttery, golden cake topping. The textures meld beautifully—the tender apples contrast with the crisp cake, and when served warm, it becomes a cozy treat that invites you to take just one more bite.

Perfect for fall gatherings, potlucks, or a simple family dinner, this cake fills your home with an inviting aroma that makes everyone feel welcomed. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and you have a dessert that will warm hearts and create lasting memories. This recipe is not only easy to make but also promises a delicious outcome every time.

Ingredients

1 (21 ounce) can apple pie filling: This provides the base of our dessert, offering that sweet and tangy apple flavor that pairs perfectly with caramel.
1 (15.25 ounce) box yellow cake mix: The foundation of the cake layer, this mix will bake up into a deliciously soft topping.
1 cup caramel bits or chips: These wonderful little bits melt into gooey pockets of caramel goodness that add depth to the flavors.
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted: This adds moisture and richness, allowing the cake to become golden and crispy.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) or lightly grease a 6-quart slow cooker insert if you prefer the slow-cooked method.
If you are baking the cake, pour the apple pie filling into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. If you are using a slow cooker, pour the filling into the bottom of the slow cooker insert.
Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the apple layer. Avoid mixing the layers together.
Scatter the caramel bits evenly over the layer of cake mix.
Drizzle the melted butter over the entire surface, ensuring it covers the cake mix well.
For baking in the oven, place the dish in the oven and bake for 40 to 50 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. If using a slow cooker, cook on LOW for 3 to 4 hours or on HIGH for 1.5 to 2 hours, until the topping is set and bubbling at the edges.
Allow the dump cake to cool slightly before serving. It is best enjoyed warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 to 50 minutes (oven) or 1.5 to 4 hours (slow cooker)
Total Time: 50 minutes to 4 hours
Servings: 8 to 12
Calories: Approximately 350 per serving

Tips, Storage & Variations

Tip: For a crispier topping, consider using a little less butter or baking it a bit longer.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Freezing: You can freeze this dump cake after it has cooled. Wrap tightly and store for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
Flavor Variations: Use different fruit fillings, such as cherry or blueberry, to switch up the flavor profile. You can also add chopped nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavors.

FAQ Section

Can I use homemade apple pie filling?
Yes, homemade apple pie filling works beautifully in this recipe.
What if I don’t have caramel bits?
You can substitute with regular caramel candies, cutting them into small pieces.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it earlier in the day and bake just before serving.
Is it necessary to use unsalted butter?
Unsalted butter is preferred for better control of the sweetness, but salted butter can be used if that’s what you have.
Can I cook this in a different size slow cooker?
Yes, just adjust cooking times as necessary based on your slow cooker’s size and capacity.
How do I ensure the cake topping is cooked through?
Keep an eye on the color and bubbling around the edges; the topping should be golden brown and set.

Conclusion

This Ultimate 4-Ingredient Caramel Apple Dump Cake is a delightful treat that brings joy to any table. It is easy to prepare, making it an excellent option for both seasoned bakers and beginners. We hope you try this delicious recipe and share it with friends and family. Enjoy every warm, caramel-infused bite and the smiles that follow!

Ultimate 4-Ingredient Caramel Apple Dump Cake

Print Recipe

Indulge in the sweet, comforting flavors of this delightful dessert combining spiced apple filling with caramel, under a buttery, golden cake topping.

Author: hannah-reed
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 60 minutes
Yield: 8 to 12 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

1 (21 ounce) can apple pie filling
1 (15.25 ounce) box yellow cake mix
1 cup caramel bits or chips
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) or lightly grease a 6-quart slow cooker insert.
Pour the apple pie filling into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish or slow cooker insert.
Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the apple layer without mixing.
Scatter the caramel bits evenly over the cake mix layer.
Drizzle the melted butter over the entire surface, ensuring it covers the cake mix.
Bake for 40 to 50 minutes or slow cook on LOW for 3 to 4 hours, or HIGH for 1.5 to 2 hours, until the topping is golden brown and bubbly.
Allow to cool slightly before serving, best enjoyed warm with vanilla ice cream.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving. Also, you can freeze this dump cake after it has cooled for up to 3 months.