Easy Caramel Apple Dump Cake for Fall

Golden, gooey, and filled with the warm spices of fall, this caramel apple dump cake brings instant dessert joy with almost no effort. Whether you’re short on time or just craving something sweet and satisfying, this recipe delivers every single time. With just a few pantry staples and almost zero prep, you can enjoy a buttery, bubbling cake that’s as comforting as it is impressive. No mixers, no fuss, just layer, bake, and enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and effortless to prepare using simple pantry staples
• Only a handful of ingredients but packed with flavor
• Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or a cozy night in
• Great way to use up canned apple pie filling or fresh apples
• Warm caramel and apple blend tastes like fall in every bite
• Always a hit with guests and family, even picky eaters
• Versatile and easily adapted for different diets or flavor twists

Unlike other dump cakes, this version brings the perfect balance of sweet caramel, tender apples, and a crisp buttery topping. It’s not just easy to make, it’s irresistibly good.

Ingredients Needed

For the base
• Non-stick cooking spray to grease the pan
• Two cans (21 ounces each) of apple pie filling for a rich fruit layer
• Half a cup of caramel sauce for that signature gooey sweetness

For the topping
• One box (15.25 ounces) of spice cake mix for a warm, spiced flavor
• One cup of salted butter, melted to moisten and crisp the topping
• One cup of coarsely chopped walnuts for added crunch and texture

Tip: You can swap walnuts for pecans or skip the nuts entirely if preferred.

How to Make Caramel Apple Dump Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

1. Pour the apple pie filling into the dish and spread it out evenly using a spatula. Make sure the entire base is covered.
2. Drizzle the caramel sauce evenly over the apple layer, letting it seep into the nooks of the filling for maximum flavor.
3. Sprinkle the dry spice cake mix evenly across the top. Do not mix it in. Just make sure it’s fully covering the apples and caramel.

1. Slowly pour the melted butter over the entire surface of the cake mix. Try to coat as much of the dry mix as possible for a golden crust.
2. Scatter the chopped walnuts evenly over the top. This adds crunch and depth to every bite.
3. Bake in the center of the oven for 50 to 55 minutes until the top is golden and the apple filling is bubbling at the edges.
4. Remove from the oven and let it cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to scoop.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Suggestions
Scoop the warm caramel apple dump cake into bowls and pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate comfort dessert. Add a spoonful of whipped cream or a little extra caramel over the top for even more flavor. For a crunchier bite, sprinkle toasted pecans on top before serving. This dessert also pairs well with a hot cup of coffee or apple cider.

Storage and Reheating
Cover any leftovers tightly and store them in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave for about thirty seconds or until heated through. If you prefer oven reheating, place the dish in a low-temperature oven until warm to maintain the topping’s texture. Avoid freezing, as it may alter the consistency of the fruit layer.

Tips for the Best Caramel Apple Dump Cake

Crispy Topping
Pour the butter as evenly as possible over the cake mix to help every bit brown nicely. Try not to leave any dry patches. If needed, use a spoon to gently spread it across the surface.

Moisture Control
If using fresh apples, sauté them briefly before layering to reduce excess liquid. Avoid overloading the filling layer, which can lead to soggy spots.

Flavor Boosters
Sprinkling a little salt into the caramel can enhance its richness and cut through the sweetness. You might also blend some cinnamon or nutmeg into the cake mix for a deeper, cozier flavor.

Baking Dish Size
Stick to a standard 9×13-inch pan for even cooking. Smaller pans may cause the cake to bake unevenly, while larger pans could lead to a thinner, drier result.

Making it Your Own: Dietary Modifications

Gluten-Free Caramel Apple Dump Cake
Choose a certified gluten-free spice cake mix from brands like Betty Crocker or King Arthur. Double-check that your caramel sauce and apple pie filling are also labeled gluten-free to avoid any hidden wheat-based ingredients.

Vegan Caramel Apple Dump Cake
Use plant-based butter made for baking and select a dairy-free, egg-free spice cake mix. For the caramel, opt for a vegan version made with coconut milk or almond milk. Make sure your apple pie filling contains no added animal-based ingredients.

Low-Sugar or Low-Carb Option
Pick a no-sugar-added apple pie filling or make your own with fresh apples and a low-carb sweetener like erythritol or monk fruit. Swap the regular cake mix with a sugar-free or low-carb cake mix available from specialty baking brands. Choose a sugar-free caramel sauce or make one using unsweetened almond milk and your sweetener of choice.

Related Recipes and Further Reading

If you enjoyed this caramel apple dump cake, you might also like these seasonal treats:

Easy Apple Crisp
A quick dessert with tender apples and a buttery oat topping.

Pumpkin Dump Cake
Perfect for autumn, this pumpkin version is spiced, rich, and just as simple.

Classic Apple Pie
For those who love a traditional approach with a flaky crust and homemade filling.

Homemade Caramel Sauce
Upgrade any dessert with this easy stovetop caramel recipe using just a few ingredients.

These recipes pair well with cozy fall nights and will keep your kitchen smelling amazing.

Chef Emilia

Caramel Apple Dump Cake

This incredibly easy Caramel Apple Dump Cake is a delightful autumn treat requiring minimal effort. Simply layer apple pie filling, caramel, cake mix, and butter, then bake to gooey perfection. It’s the ultimate comforting dessert for any occasion, promising warmth and rich, sweet flavors with every bite.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 55 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Servings: 12 servings

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 486

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• non-stick cooking spray (for greasing)
• 2 cans apple pie filling (21 oz each)
• 1/2 cup caramel sauce
• 1 box spice cake mix (15.25 oz)
• 1 cup salted butter, melted
• 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional, or sub with pecans)

Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• mixing spoon or spatula
• measuring cup
• oven

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray.
2. Spread the apple pie filling evenly in the prepared baking dish.
3. Drizzle caramel sauce evenly over the apples, letting it seep into the filling.
4. Sprinkle the dry spice cake mix evenly over the apple and caramel layers. Do not stir.
5. Slowly pour the melted butter over the cake mix, trying to cover as much of it as possible.
6. Sprinkle chopped walnuts on top for added crunch, if using.
7. Bake for 50–55 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the filling bubbles at the edges.
8. Let it cool for at least 15 minutes before serving to help it set.

Notes

Try swapping walnuts for pecans, or skip the nuts altogether. For a gluten-free or vegan version, use compliant cake mix and caramel. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Conclusion

Caramel apple dump cake is the kind of dessert that makes baking feel effortless yet incredibly rewarding. With its gooey apple filling, buttery topping, and warm spice flavor, it hits every note of comfort and indulgence. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just want something sweet without a mess, this recipe fits the bill perfectly.

Tried this recipe? Leave a comment below and give it a star rating to let others know how it turned out.

Feel free to share your version on Pinterest or Facebook and tag us. What twist did you try? Extra nuts, a new cake mix, or maybe a scoop of cinnamon ice cream? Tell us in the comments.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Does caramel apple dump cake need to be refrigerated?

Caramel apple dump cake can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature right after baking. However, because it contains fruit filling and caramel, it is best to refrigerate it if you plan to keep it for more than a day or two. Refrigeration helps maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.

How long can you keep dump cake?

When stored properly in an airtight container, dump cake can typically be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days, and in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days. For longer storage, it can often be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

How long to keep apple cake?

Similar to dump cakes, most apple cakes will last for about 1-2 days at room temperature in an airtight container, and 3-5 days when refrigerated. Freezing is also an option for longer preservation.

How long to let caramel cool before putting on cake?

If you are drizzling additional caramel sauce on top of the baked cake, allow it to cool to a warm (but not hot) or room temperature consistency. This helps it set slightly and prevents it from melting other toppings like ice cream too quickly or soaking into the cake excessively. If using a pre-made sauce, it’s usually ready to use as is

As a culinary content creator, here is a detailed and visually appealing recipe recap for the Caramel Apple Dump Cake, structured for professionalism and user-friendliness: