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If you love easy desserts that pack a punch, this Caramel Apple Dump Cake recipe is for you! With layers of sweet apple pie filling, warm caramel, and a buttery cake mix topping, it’s a perfect treat for any occasion. I’ll guide you through each step, ensuring even beginner bakers can impress their friends and family. Get ready to bake a delicious dessert that everyone will ask for again and again!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This dump cake requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
- Delicious Flavor Combo: The combination of caramel and apple pie filling creates a comforting and irresistible dessert.
- Customizable: Add nuts or coconut for extra texture, or serve with ice cream for an indulgent treat.
- Feeds a Crowd: With 8-10 servings, it’s ideal for parties, potlucks, or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Complete List of Ingredients
– 1 can (21 oz) apple pie filling
– 1 cup caramel sauce
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
– 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks), melted
– 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)
– 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut (optional)
This recipe uses simple, tasty ingredients. First, you need apple pie filling. It gives that warm apple flavor we all love. Next, grab a cup of caramel sauce. You can use store-bought or make your own if you feel adventurous.
Add one teaspoon of ground cinnamon. This spice brings warmth and a nice scent to the dish. The yellow cake mix is next. It forms the top layer and makes the cake light and fluffy. Melt one cup of unsalted butter. This adds richness and moisture to the cake.
You can also add optional toppings for extra crunch and flavor. Chopped pecans add a nice nutty taste. Sweetened shredded coconut can give a tropical twist. If you want, you can serve it with vanilla ice cream for a creamy touch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is key. It helps the cake cook evenly. If you skip this step, your cake may not rise well.
Prepare the Baking Dish
Next, grab a large 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the apple pie filling evenly across the bottom. This will create a tasty base. Make sure every corner has some filling for full flavor.
Layering Ingredients
Now, let’s add some sweetness. Drizzle 1/2 cup of caramel sauce over the apple filling. Then, sprinkle 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon on top. This adds warmth to your cake.
Carefully pour the dry yellow cake mix over the apple and caramel layers. Do not stir. This is the magic of dump cake!
Next, drizzle 1 cup of melted butter over the cake mix. Cover all the dry spots for a nice, moist top.
If you like extra crunch, sprinkle 1 cup of chopped pecans and 1 cup of sweetened shredded coconut on top. These are optional but add great flavor.
Baking and Serving
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. Look for a golden top and bubbly edges. This shows your cake is ready.
After baking, let it cool for a few minutes. This helps the flavors blend together. Serve your dump cake warm. Drizzle with more caramel and add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a sweet treat!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Dump Cake Texture
Layering the ingredients is key to a great dump cake. Start with a solid base of apple pie filling. Spread it evenly in your dish. Next, drizzle half of the caramel sauce over the apples. This adds sweetness and moisture.
To keep the top crust moist, pour the melted butter over the dry cake mix. Make sure it covers all areas. Avoid stirring the layers; this keeps the cake light and fluffy.
Serving Suggestions
For a fun presentation, serve slices in bowls. Drizzle extra caramel sauce over each slice. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side makes it extra special. You can also sprinkle a bit of cinnamon or some pecans on top for added flair.
Variations on the Recipe
Feel free to swap out the apple filling. You can use cherry, peach, or even blueberry for a different flavor. You can also try different cake mix flavors. Chocolate or spice cake mix can create a unique twist on this classic dessert.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for high-quality apple pie filling or make your own using fresh apples and spices.
- Customize the Toppings: Feel free to experiment with different nuts or add chocolate chips for a unique twist on the classic flavor.
- Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on the cake during baking; the top should be golden brown and the edges bubbling for optimal texture.
- Serve with Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a delicious contrast to the warm dump cake, enhancing the overall experience.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your caramel apple dump cake fresh, use these tips:
– Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container. They last about 3 to 5 days.
– Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a tightly sealed container. It lasts up to 3 months.
When you want to enjoy it again, here’s how to reheat:
– Reheat in the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the cake in a baking dish. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
– Microwave Option: For a quick fix, warm a slice in the microwave for about 30 seconds.
Freshness Timeline
To enjoy the best taste, follow this freshness timeline:
– Refrigerator: Eat within 3 to 5 days for the best flavor.
– Freezer: Use within 3 months for optimal taste.
Watch for these signs of spoilage:
– Smell: If it has an off or sour odor, it’s time to toss it.
– Texture: If it feels slimy or too hard, it’s not safe to eat.
– Color: Look for any unusual discoloration or mold. If you see any, throw it out.
FAQs
Can I use homemade caramel sauce?
Yes, you can use homemade caramel sauce. Making your own caramel adds a fresh taste. Here are some tips for making your own caramel:
– Ingredients: You need sugar, butter, and cream.
– Heat Slowly: Cook the sugar on low heat until it melts and turns golden.
– Add Butter: Stir in butter until it melts.
– Add Cream: Slowly mix in cream and stir until smooth.
– Cool Down: Let it cool before using.
Homemade caramel brings a rich flavor that store-bought can’t match.
What if I don’t have yellow cake mix?
If you don’t have yellow cake mix, don’t worry! You have options. You can use:
– White cake mix: It works just as well.
– Vanilla cake mix: This adds a nice touch.
– Chocolate cake mix: For a fun twist, try this.
Each option helps create a tasty dump cake that you will love.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! You can make this recipe gluten-free. Use a gluten-free cake mix instead of yellow cake mix. Here are some good options:
– Almond flour cake mix: This adds a nutty flavor.
– Rice flour cake mix: It gives a light texture.
– Gluten-free all-purpose mix: This is a solid choice.
Make sure to check all labels to ensure they are gluten-free. Enjoy a delicious treat without gluten!
Visual Guidance
High-Quality Images
To help you make this caramel apple dump cake, I suggest taking pictures at each step. Start with a photo of the apple pie filling in the baking dish. Next, capture the moment you drizzle the caramel sauce over the apples. A shot of the cinnamon sprinkle adds warmth to your visual guide. Layering the yellow cake mix is fun, so snap a photo before you pour the melted butter. Lastly, take a picture of the golden-brown cake once it’s out of the oven. A final photo of the plated dump cake with ice cream and caramel sauce will make your readers drool!
Video Tutorials (if applicable)
If you’re more of a visual learner, you can check out video tutorials online. Many cooking channels showcase the steps for making this dessert. Watching someone else make the cake can give you great tips. Look for videos that show the layering process and baking tips. This will help you feel confident as you create your own version.
This article covers a tasty dump cake recipe with easy steps. We discussed the key ingredients like apple pie filling, caramel sauce, and yellow cake mix. I shared tips to get the perfect texture and serving ideas, like adding ice cream. You can even store leftovers smartly and enjoy them later. Try swapping ingredients for fun variations. With this guide, you can confidently make a delicious treat that everyone will love. Enjoy baking and experimenting with your own twis
Caramel Apple Dream Dump Cake
A delightful and easy dessert featuring layers of apple pie filling, caramel, and a buttery cake topping.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 45 minutes mins
Total Time 1 hour hr
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 350 kcal
- 1 can apple pie filling (21 oz)
- 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks), melted
- 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut (optional)
- to taste vanilla ice cream for serving (optional)
Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking.
Prepare the Baking Dish: In a large 9x13-inch baking dish, evenly spread the apple pie filling across the bottom.
Add the Caramel: Drizzle 1/2 cup of caramel sauce generously over the apple filling.
Sprinkle the Spice: Evenly sprinkle the ground cinnamon over the caramel apple layer.
Layer the Cake Mix: Carefully pour the dry yellow cake mix over the apple and caramel mixture. Do not stir.
Pour the Butter: Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the surface of the cake mix.
Add Optional Toppings: If desired, sprinkle chopped pecans and sweetened shredded coconut over the butter layer.
Bake to Perfection: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes.
Cool Slightly: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
Serve Warm: Serve the dump cake warm, drizzled with the remaining caramel sauce, and add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side if desired.
For an appealing presentation, serve the slices in bowls with a generous drizzle of caramel sauce and a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few pecans for an extra touch!
Keyword apple, caramel, dump cake, easy dessert
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