Apple Dump Cake Recipe

Introduction

This Apple Dump Cake is a delightfully simple dessert that combines tender apples with a soft, buttery topping. It’s quick to assemble and perfect for cozy gatherings or an easy weeknight treat.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the cinnamon, nutmeg, sugar, and vanilla with the apples. Mix well and then spread evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Step 2: Using the same bowl, mix the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt to make the topping. Pour this mixture over the apples, spreading it out evenly.
3. Step 3: Pour the melted butter evenly over the topping. Tilt the pan gently to help the butter cover as much of the surface as possible.
4. Step 4: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 to 50 minutes, until the cake is bubbly and lightly browned.
5. Step 5: Serve warm or cold. It’s delicious on its own or paired with milk, whipped cream, or ice cream.

Tips & Variations

• Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice balance of sweetness and acidity.
• For extra flavor, sprinkle chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts on top before baking.
• If you prefer a richer cake, use the full 1 cup of melted butter; for a lighter version, use 3/4 cup.

Storage

Store leftover apple dump cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in the oven at 300°F until heated through. This cake also freezes well; wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen apples for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen apples. Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before mixing with the spices to avoid a soggy cake.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Make sure it contains baking powder for proper rising.

Apple Dump Cake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 108 reviews

This Apple Dump Cake recipe is a simple, comforting dessert that layers spiced apples with a moist, tender cake topping. It requires minimal prep and combines warm cinnamon and nutmeg with juicy apples, all baked to golden perfection. Enjoy it warm or cold, plain or topped with whipped cream or ice cream for a deliciously easy sweet treat.

• Author: Windy
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Apple Mixture

• 5 cups apples, peeled and cut into 1 in. pieces
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 2 tsp vanilla extract

Cake Topping

• 2 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 3/4 tsp salt

Other

• 3/4 to 1 cup butter, melted

Instructions

1. Prepare the apple mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the peeled and cut apples with cinnamon, nutmeg, 2 tablespoons sugar, and 2 teaspoons vanilla. Stir well to evenly coat the apples with the spices and flavorings. Then, spread this apple mixture into a greased 9×13 baking dish in an even layer.
2. Make the cake topping: Using the same bowl, mix together the flour, 1 1/4 cups sugar, baking powder, and salt until thoroughly combined. Pour this dry mixture evenly over the apple layer in the baking dish, spreading it out for uniform coverage.
3. Add the melted butter: Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the dry cake mixture. Tilt the pan gently if needed to allow the butter to distribute and cover as much of the surface as possible, which will create a moist and golden crust during baking.
4. Bake the cake: Place the baking dish in a preheated oven set to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the cake is bubbly around the edges and the topping is lightly browned and cooked through.
5. Serve: Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or cold, plain or with accompaniments like milk, whipped cream, or ice cream for extra indulgence.

Notes

• Adjust the amount of melted butter depending on how moist you want the topping; more butter creates a richer, moister crust.
• Using tart apples like Granny Smith enhances the flavor balance between sweet and tangy.
• This cake keeps well and flavors deepen after a day, making it a great make-ahead dessert.
• For a gluten-free version, substitute the flour with a gluten-free baking mix.

Keywords: apple dump cake, easy apple dessert, cinnamon apple cake, quick fruit cake, baked apple dessert