If you’re looking for an easy and delicious dessert that requires minimal ingredients and If you’re looking for an easy and delicious dessert that requires minimal ingredients and effort, look no further than the 3-ingredient apple dump cake. This no-fuss dessert has become a favorite among home bakers because of its simplicity and the mouthwatering results it produces. With just three pantry staples, you can create a warm and comforting dessert that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
What is an Apple Dump Cake?
A dump cake is exactly what it sounds like: a dessert where all the ingredients are “dumped” into a baking dish and baked to perfection. No need for mixing bowls or any complicated steps, which makes this apple dump cake a hit for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. The combination of cake mix, fruit filling, and butter creates a magical dessert with minimal effort.
Looking for more dessert ideas that are just as easy? Check out the Ultimate Guide to Making Butterscotch Pie, which is another simple, yet delicious option.
Ingredients for a Perfect 3-Ingredient Apple Dump Cake
This 3-ingredient apple dump cake is so simple, it only requires three key ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry:
- 1 box yellow cake mix (about 15.25 oz)
- 2 cans (21 oz each) apple pie filling
- 1 stick (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, melted
That’s it! These ingredients come together to create a warm, gooey, and flavorful dump cake that is perfect for any occasion.
Optional Add-Ons and Variations for Your Apple Dump Cake
Though the base recipe is excellent on its own, you can easily customize it to your liking with these optional add-ons:
- Spice Cake Mix: Swap the yellow cake mix for spice cake mix to add a warm, autumnal flavor.
- Cinnamon or Nutmeg: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the apple pie filling to boost the fall flavors.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzle caramel over the apple pie filling before adding the cake mix for a caramel apple twist.
- Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for an extra crunch.
For a slightly different take, you might also enjoy this guide to Easy Apple Dump Cake with Fresh Apples, which uses fresh apples instead of pie filling.
How to Make a 3-Ingredient Apple Dump Cake Recipe
Making this 3-ingredient apple dump cake is as simple as dumping everything into a dish and letting the oven do the rest. Follow these easy steps to get a perfectly baked apple dump cake every time:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little butter or non-stick spray.
- Dump the apple pie filling into the bottom of the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the top of the apple pie filling. Do not stir.
- Pour the melted butter evenly over the cake mix, ensuring that as much of the cake mix is covered as possible.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Once baked, let the cake cool for a few minutes before serving.
Why This Apple Dump Cake Recipe Works
The combination of apple pie filling, yellow cake mix, and melted butter results in a dessert that is moist on the inside and slightly crispy on the outside. The cake mix absorbs the liquid from the apples, transforming into a perfectly soft cake-like layer, while the butter ensures the topping is golden and slightly crunchy.
Moreover, using pre-packaged ingredients like canned apple pie filling and boxed cake mix takes the guesswork out of baking, making this recipe perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
Apple Dump Cake Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is. Here are a few variations you can try:
- Different Fruits for Your Dump Cake: You can substitute the apple pie filling with other fruit fillings such as cherry, peach, or blueberry.
- Spiced-Up Apple Dump Cake: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice to the apple pie filling for an autumn-inspired dessert.
- Gluten-Free Apple Dump Cake: Simply swap out the yellow cake mix for a gluten-free cake mix.
For a unique twist on this classic dessert, you might want to explore a Caramel Apple Dump Cake, which adds an extra layer of indulgence with rich caramel sauce.
Tips for Making the Best 3-Ingredient Apple Dump Cake
Even though this recipe is nearly foolproof, here are a few tips to ensure that your apple dump cake turns out perfectly every time:
- Even Butter Distribution: Make sure to pour the melted butter evenly over the cake mix to avoid any dry spots.
- Don’t Stir the Layers: The beauty of this cake lies in the layers, so resist the temptation to mix everything together.
- Choose the Right Pan for Your Dump Cake: A 9×13-inch pan is ideal for this recipe, as it allows the cake to bake evenly. Using a smaller pan might result in a thicker, unevenly cooked cake.
Serving Suggestions for Apple Dump Cake
The apple dump cake is delicious on its own, but there are plenty of ways to take it to the next level:
- Serve Warm with Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream is the perfect complement to the warm, gooey apple filling.
- Top with Whipped Cream: Light, fluffy whipped cream adds a refreshing contrast to the rich cake.
- Drizzle with Caramel Sauce: For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle some caramel sauce over the top.
If you’re a fan of warm desserts, you might also enjoy this recipe for Homemade Apple Dump Cake, which provides a more traditional, from-scratch approach.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Apple Dump Cake
What is the best cake mix for apple dump cake?
The most common cake mix used for this recipe is yellow cake mix, but you can also use spice cake mix for a more autumnal flavor.
Can I use fresh apples instead of apple pie filling in my dump cake?
Yes, but you’ll need to cook them first. Peel, core, and slice the apples, then simmer them with sugar, cinnamon, and a bit of butter until soft.
Can I make a gluten-free version of this apple dump cake?
Absolutely! Just replace the regular cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix, and you’re good to go.
How do I store leftovers from the dump cake?
Leftover dump cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave before serving.
Can I make apple dump cake in a slow cooker?
Yes! Simply layer the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling.
Nutritional Information for Apple Dump Cake
While this dessert is indulgent, there are ways to make it a bit lighter:
- Use light butter or a butter substitute to cut down on fat.
- Opt for sugar-free apple pie filling to reduce sugar content.
On average, a serving of apple dump cake contains around 350-400 calories, depending on the portion size and specific ingredients used.
Conclusion: Why You’ll Love This 3-Ingredient Apple Dump Cake Recipe
The 3-ingredient apple dump cake is a dessert that combines simplicity and flavor into one satisfying bite. With just three ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create a delicious treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dessert or something to serve at a family gathering, this dump cake is sure to become one of your go-to recipes.
Be sure to try different variations and flavor combinations to keep this recipe fresh and exciting. For even more dessert ideas, check out this delicious recipe for Delicious Pecan Pie Muffins, another easy and satisfying treat.