Best Apple Dump Cake Recipe: Easy from Scratch!

There’s something truly special about a warm, comforting dessert that brings everyone together. Today, I’m thrilled to share with you my Best Apple Dump Cake Recipe, a deliciously easy dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Made entirely from scratch, this apple dump cake is a game-changer for anyone looking for a quick and flavorful treat that’s sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for quick family dinners or last-minute gatherings.
• Uses simple, everyday ingredients you probably already have on hand.
• A delicious alternative to traditional apple pie or cobbler.
• Can be served warm or cold, making it versatile for any meal or occasion.
• Ready in under an hour, fitting perfectly into your 30-minute meals or weeknight dinner ideas.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this scrumptious apple dump cake:

• 5 cups apples, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla
• 2 1/3 cups flour
• 1 1/4 cups sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 to 1 cup butter, melted

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Let’s walk through the simple steps to create this mouthwatering apple dump cake:

1. Prep the Apples: In a large bowl, combine the cinnamon, nutmeg, sugar, and vanilla. Add the sliced apples and mix until they’re evenly coated. Spread the apple mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Make the Topping: In the same bowl (no need to clean it!), mix together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Pour this mixture evenly over the top of the apple layer.
3. Add the Butter: Drizzle the melted butter over the cake topping. Tilt the pan if needed to ensure the butter covers as much of the surface as possible.
4. Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned and the apples are bubbly.
5. Serve: Enjoy warm or cold, as is, or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are a few tips to ensure your apple dump cake turns out perfectly every time:

• Apple Variety: Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for the best flavor. Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are great choices.
• Butter Coverage: Make sure the melted butter covers the entire surface of the cake for a golden, crispy topping.
• Add-Ins: Consider adding a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch.
• Vanilla Flavor: Don’t skip the vanilla—it adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the apples.

How to Serve

This apple dump cake is incredibly versatile, so feel free to get creative with how you serve it:

• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert.
• Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a lighter option.
• Drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra indulgent treat.
• Enjoy it cold, straight from the fridge, for a quick snack.

Make Ahead and Storage

One of the best things about this dump cake is how easy it is to prepare ahead of time and store:

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the apple mixture and topping separately and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before assembling and baking.
• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
• Freezing: While the cake itself doesn’t freeze perfectly, the apple mixture can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw and proceed with the recipe as instructed.

And there you have it—my Best Apple Dump Cake Recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite! It’s the perfect combination of flavors, textures, and convenience that makes it a go-to for any occasion. Plus, it’s ready in under an hour, making it a great fit for your quick family dinners or weeknight dinner ideas.

Looking for more delicious recipes to add to your repertoire? Check out my The World’s Best Banana Bread Recipe and How to Make Super Moist Chocolate Chip Banana Bread for more easy and mouthwatering ideas!

Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations with me in the comments below!