This apple dump cake is a wonderfully simple dessert that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Made with pantry staples and assembled in minutes, it bakes into a warm, comforting treat with tender apples and a golden, buttery topping that’s perfect for gatherings or casual family desserts.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is incredibly easy and beginner-friendly, requiring no mixing bowls or special techniques. The contrast between the soft apple filling and the crisp cake topping makes every bite satisfying. It’s also highly versatile, allowing you to customize flavors with different cake mixes or add-ins. Best of all, it feeds a crowd with very little prep time, making it ideal for parties and potlucks.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cans (21 ounces each) apple pie filling
1 package (15.25 ounces) yellow cake mix
½ cup (113 g) butter, melted

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Pour the apple pie filling evenly into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the apple pie filling, making sure to cover the surface as evenly as possible.
Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the cake mix, covering as much of the dry mix as you can.
Bake for about 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling around the edges.
Remove from the oven and let cool for about 15 minutes before serving. Serve warm.

Servings and timing

Servings: 20
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Cooling time: 15 minutes
Total time: 1 hour

Variations

You can substitute the apple pie filling with cherry, peach, blueberry, or mixed berry pie filling.
Use spice cake mix or vanilla cake mix instead of yellow cake mix for a different flavor profile.
Add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon or apple pie spice over the filling for extra warmth.
Sprinkle ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans over the cake mix before adding the butter for added crunch.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover apple dump cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave for 20–30 seconds, or place the baking dish in a 300°F (150°C) oven until heated through. This dessert can also be enjoyed cold straight from the refrigerator.

FAQs

Can I use only one can of apple pie filling?

Yes, but the cake will be less moist and have a thinner fruit layer. Two cans are recommended for best texture.

Do I prepare the cake mix according to the package directions?

No, the cake mix is used dry and sprinkled directly over the filling.

Can I use a gluten-free cake mix?

Yes, a gluten-free yellow cake mix works well and does not require other adjustments.

What size baking dish should I use?

A 9×13-inch baking dish is ideal for even baking and proper layering.

Can I add fresh apples instead of pie filling?

Fresh apples can be used, but they should be peeled, sliced, and cooked with sugar and spices first to soften them.

How do I know when the dump cake is done?

The top should be golden brown, and the apple filling should be bubbling around the edges.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake it a day in advance and reheat before serving.

Is it better to scoop or slice this dessert?

It’s best scooped with a large spoon since the filling is soft and not firm like traditional cake.

Can I reduce the butter?

You can reduce slightly, but using the full amount ensures even browning and prevents dry spots.

What should I serve with apple dump cake?

It pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or whipped topping, though it’s delicious on its own.

Conclusion

Apple dump cake is proof that simple recipes can still be incredibly satisfying. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you get a warm, crowd-pleasing dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you stick to the classic version or try one of the variations, this recipe is sure to become a reliable favorite in your kitchen.

Print