Here’s an even more detailed version of your Caramel Apple Dump Cake recipe, with tips and tricks to make it absolutely perfect every time! 🍎✨
Caramel Apple Dump Cake
Yield: 12 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40–45 minutes
Total Time: ~55 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 (20 oz) cans apple pie filling (choose a high-quality brand for the best flavor).
- 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz, classic yellow works best, but spice cake mix is also a great option).
- 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter (melted and slightly cooled).
- Caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought, for drizzling).
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (adjust to taste).
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional but adds warmth).
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or a non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy.
Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling
- Layer the Apples:
- Pour the 2 cans of apple pie filling into the baking dish. Use a spoon or spatula to spread it into an even layer.
- Add Spices:
- Sprinkle 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon and 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg over the apples. Gently stir the spices into the apple filling for even flavor distribution.
Step 3: Add the Cake Mix
- Open the box of yellow cake mix and sprinkle the dry mix evenly over the spiced apple filling.
- Avoid stirring; the « dump » method ensures the layers stay intact for the perfect texture. Pro Tip: Use a fork to lightly break up any clumps in the cake mix before sprinkling for a smoother topping.
Step 4: Add Butter
- Melt the Butter:
- Melt 1 stick of butter in the microwave or on the stovetop. Let it cool slightly for easier pouring.
- Drizzle Butter Over the Cake Mix:
- Pour the melted butter as evenly as possible over the top of the dry cake mix. It’s okay if there are some dry spots; they will bake up crunchy and delicious.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until:
- The top is golden brown.
- The edges are bubbling with apple filling.
Step 6: Add the Caramel
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes.
- Drizzle generously with your favorite caramel sauce over the top while the cake is still warm. This adds a rich, gooey layer of sweetness. Pro Tip: Warm the caramel sauce slightly for easier drizzling.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic Pairing: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold ice cream against the warm, gooey cake is heavenly!
- Toppings: Sprinkle with chopped pecans or walnuts for a nutty crunch, or a dusting of powdered sugar for extra sweetness.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheating:
- Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 20–30 seconds or until warm.
Customization Ideas
- Spiced Variation: Use a spice cake mix instead of yellow cake for a deeper, spiced flavor.
- Fruity Twist: Add cranberries, raisins, or dried cherries to the apple filling for a holiday vibe.
- Crunchy Topping: Before baking, sprinkle the top with a handful of oats or crushed graham crackers for extra texture.
Now you’ve got a super-detailed guide to making the most indulgent and crowd-pleasing Caramel Apple Dump Cake! 🍎🧡