If you are searching for a dessert that is effortless but still bursting with classic apple pie vibes, I have just the treasure for you: the 3-Ingredient Apple Dump Cake Recipe. This dish is the ultimate combination of simplicity and comfort, blending tender, cinnamon-spiced apples with sweet, golden cake topping in a way that feels like a warm hug from your oven. Whether you’re short on time or just want a crowd-pleaser with minimal effort, this is a recipe you’ll want bookmarked and tried again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this 3-Ingredient Apple Dump Cake Recipe lies in how just a few pantry staples come together to create something impressive. Each ingredient plays a vital role in achieving the perfect balance of texture, sweetness, and that irresistible golden crust.
- Yellow cake mix: This acts as the crunchy, sweet topping that crisps up beautifully in the oven, providing texture and a buttery flavor.
- Apple pie filling: The star ingredient that delivers tender, juicy apples with comforting spices, so no peeling or chopping needed.
- Salted butter: Drizzled over the top, it melts into the dry cake mix, helping create that luscious golden crust and adding richness.
How to Make 3-Ingredient Apple Dump Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and prepare your baking dish
Start by heating your oven to 375 degrees to get it ready for baking. While the oven warms up, grab a 9×13 inch casserole dish and spray it generously with non-stick cooking spray. This simple step ensures your dump cake won’t stick and will come out perfectly every time.
Step 2: Spread the apple pie filling
Pour both cans of apple pie filling directly into the prepared dish. Use a spatula or spoon to spread the apples evenly across the bottom. This layer will become juicy and tender as it bakes, infusing the cake topping with flavor.
Step 3: Sprinkle the cake mix evenly
Next, open your yellow cake mix and sprinkle it evenly over the apple layer. The even distribution is key here because it creates the signature “dump cake” top that crisps as it bakes. Resist the urge to stir; the layers working separately is what makes this dessert so unique.
Step 4: Melt and drizzle the butter
Melt the 1 ½ sticks of salted butter in the microwave until fully liquid. Then, drizzle the melted butter over the entire surface of the cake mix. This step might look a bit messy, but don’t worry—this butter will meld the dry cake mix into a wonderfully crisp topping as it bakes.
Step 5: Bake to bubbly perfection
Place the dish straight into the oven and bake for about 35 to 40 minutes. Keep an eye out for bubbling at the edges and a dry, golden top. Those visual cues tell you the cake is perfectly cooked—moist and fragrant inside with a slightly crunchy top.
How to Serve 3-Ingredient Apple Dump Cake Recipe
Garnishes
This dump cake shines on its own but adding a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream on top instantly turns it into a decadent delight. For an extra touch, a drizzle of warm caramel sauce or a dollop of whipped cream takes it to a new level of indulgence.
Side Dishes
Apple dump cake pairs wonderfully with a simple, fresh side salad or rich, savory dishes like roast pork or grilled chicken. Its sweet and fruity notes make it versatile enough for both casual dinners and holiday feasts.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving single portions in ramekins for a more elegant presentation, perfect for dinner parties. You can even layer individual slices with extra apple pie filling or nuts for added texture if you want to personalize the recipe beyond its classic simplicity.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover apple dump cake can be covered tightly with plastic wrap or transferred to an airtight container and refrigerated for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen after a day while resting, so you might find it even more delicious the next day!
Freezing
This cake freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in foil and place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. When properly stored, it will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating, and you’re ready for a quick dessert rescue.
Reheating
To bring back that freshly baked warmth, reheat leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees for 10 to 15 minutes or until heated through and the topping regains its crispness. Microwave works too but may make the top less crunchy.
FAQs
Can I use fresh apples instead of canned apple pie filling?
While fresh apples add a different texture, the key to this recipe’s ease is the canned apple pie filling with its built-in spices and syrup. If using fresh, you’ll need to add cinnamon and sugar yourself and cook the apples slightly before baking.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Just swap the yellow cake mix for a gluten-free version. Many gluten-free cake mixes perform just as well in this dump cake, making it accessible for those with dietary restrictions.
Can I substitute butter with margarine or oil?
Butter is preferred for its rich flavor and how it crisps the topping, but margarine can work in a pinch. Oils, however, won’t provide the same buttery crust and are not recommended.
How sweet is this 3-Ingredient Apple Dump Cake Recipe?
The sweetness comes mostly from the cake mix and apple pie filling, which tend to be on the sweeter side. If you prefer less sweetness, you might choose a low-sugar pie filling or reduce the amount of cake mix slightly.
Can I add nuts or spices to customize this recipe?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans sprinkled on top before baking add delightful crunch. Cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice can boost the warm spice flavor if you love more complexity.
Final Thoughts
If you ever need a no-fuss dessert that delivers on flavor and nostalgia, the 3-Ingredient Apple Dump Cake Recipe is your new best friend. With minimal prep and pantry staples, it transforms simple apples into a golden, bubbly, and utterly irresistible treat. Trust me, once you try it, this recipe will become a go-to for cozy nights, unexpected guests, and everything in between.
Print
3-Ingredient Apple Dump Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings (12 slices)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This easy 3-Ingredient Apple Dump Cake is a quick and delicious dessert perfect for any occasion. Featuring a simple layering of apple pie filling, yellow cake mix, and melted butter, this dump cake bakes into a moist, sweet, comforting dessert with minimal effort and ingredients.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 (13.75 ounce) box yellow cake mix (any brand)
- 2 (21-ounce) cans apple pie filling
- 1 ½ sticks salted butter (12 tablespoons)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit to get it ready for baking the dump cake.
- Prepare the dish: Spray a 9×13 inch casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and set it aside.
- Add apple pie filling: Pour both cans of apple pie filling evenly into the bottom of the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out in an even layer.
- Sprinkle cake mix: Evenly sprinkle the entire box of yellow cake mix over the apple pie filling, covering it completely.
- Add melted butter: Melt 1 ½ sticks of salted butter in the microwave and drizzle it evenly over the top of the dry cake mix layer, trying to cover as much surface area as possible.
- Do not stir: It’s important not to mix or stir the layers; the distinct layering enables the dump cake to bake perfectly.
- Bake the cake: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until the edges are bubbling and the top layer of cake mix looks dry and slightly golden.
- Serve: Remove from oven and serve immediately. For best flavor, enjoy with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or caramel sauce.
Notes
- Do not stir the ingredients after layering; this is crucial for the classic dump cake texture.
- Use salted butter to add flavor; if using unsalted, add a pinch of salt to balance sweetness.
- For variety, try different pie fillings like cherry, blueberry, or peach.
- Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving if desired, though it’s best warm.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
