If you are craving a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a cozy evening, the Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake Recipe is your new best friend. This delightful treat combines the comforting flavors of cinnamon-spiced apples with the sweet, buttery goodness of a snickerdoodle-inspired cake, all baked in one simple dish. It’s quick to prepare but delivers big on taste and nostalgia, making it perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or any time you need a little sweetness in your life.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake Recipe is carefully chosen to create a balance of texture, flavor, and color that turns a simple dessert into a crowd-pleaser. From the tangy apple pie filling to the buttery cake topping, these essentials come together effortlessly.
- 2 cans (21 ounces each) apple pie filling: The star of the show, providing sweet and tender apple chunks with cinnamon flavor already infused.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds extra sweetness and helps create a caramelized layer under the cake mix.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: Brings warm spiciness that complements the apple filling perfectly.
- 1 box (about 15.25 ounces) yellow cake mix: Creates the golden, snickerdoodle-inspired crust that’s crisp yet soft inside.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted): Adds richness and moisture, allowing the cake topping to bake up beautifully.
- 1/4 cup milk: Helps bind the butter and vanilla together for an even drizzle over the cake mix.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the cake’s warm, sweet aroma and deepens the flavor profile.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional): Offers a subtle additional layer of spice for those who like a little extra warmth.
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for serving: The perfect cool and creamy accompaniment to this warm and cozy dessert.
How to Make Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and give your cake an easy release. This simple step ensures your layers will bake evenly and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Layer the Apple Filling
Pour the apple pie filling evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This juicy, cinnamon-sweet layer forms the delicious base that will bubble and caramelize during baking.
Step 3: Add Cinnamon Sugar
Mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl until well combined. Sprinkle this fragrant blend evenly over the apple filling. This touch adds that signature snickerdoodle flavor and draws out even more sweetness from the apples.
Step 4: Sprinkle the Cake Mix
Gently sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the cinnamon sugar layer. Do not stir or mix; the dry mix serves as the crumbly topping that will transform into a golden crust as it bakes.
Step 5: Combine and Drizzle Butter Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract. Drizzle this luscious mixture evenly over the dry cake mix, covering as much of the surface as possible. This step helps the cake mix transform into a moist, tender topping with a rich, buttery flavor.
Step 6: Add Nutmeg and Bake
If you love a little extra spice, sprinkle the optional ground nutmeg over the top before placing the dish in the oven. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden brown and the edges are bubbly. Once baked, allow the cake to cool for at least 15 minutes to set before serving.
How to Serve Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Top your warm Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake Recipe with a generous dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. The contrast of hot and cold, along with the creamy texture, elevates every bite and adds a mouthwatering finish.
Side Dishes
This dessert pairs wonderfully with a cup of spiced tea, a glass of apple cider, or even a scoop of your favorite nutty butter on the side. For a holiday gathering, consider serving fresh sliced apples or cinnamon dusted nuts alongside the cake to complement the apple and spice flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming twist, serve individual portions of the Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake Recipe in ramekins topped with toasted pecans or walnuts for added crunch. You can also drizzle a caramel sauce or sprinkle extra cinnamon sugar over each serving for an irresistible presentation that looks as great as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake Recipe can be covered tightly with plastic wrap or foil and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen as it rests, making it just as delicious the next day.
Freezing
If you want to keep your dump cake longer, freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 30 seconds or warm the entire dish in a 325°F oven until heated through and warmed to perfection. Adding a fresh scoop of ice cream after warming makes it feel like a freshly baked treat.
FAQs
Can I use fresh apples instead of canned apple pie filling?
Absolutely! Using fresh sliced apples tossed in cinnamon and sugar adds a lovely texture and natural sweetness. Make sure to pre-cook them a bit to soften or toss them well in cinnamon sugar before layering.
What makes this a “dump cake” recipe?
A dump cake is a no-fuss dessert where you simply dump ingredients into a baking dish and bake. There’s minimal mixing, making it perfect for quick baking with minimal cleanup.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, swap the yellow cake mix for a gluten-free cake mix of your choice. Just make sure it is designed to be used as a base for cakes for the best results.
How do I get a crispier topping for my dump cake?
Sprinkling 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking creates delightful crunch and texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft apples underneath.
Is the Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake Recipe suitable for a crowd?
Definitely! This recipe yields about 12 servings, making it perfect for family gatherings, holiday parties, or casual get-togethers where everyone wants a sweet, comforting dessert.
Final Thoughts
This Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake Recipe feels like a warm, comforting hug from the inside out. It’s effortless to prepare yet thrilling to eat, with flavors that simply melt together to create pure joy on your plate. Whether you’re baking for loved ones or treating yourself, this dessert is a must-try that will quickly become a cherished favorite. Give it a go and embrace the delicious simplicity today!
Print
Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake is a delightful and easy-to-make dessert featuring a buttery yellow cake mix topping baked over sweet cinnamon-spiced apple pie filling. Perfectly spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, this comforting treat is ideal for fall gatherings and can be served warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence.
Ingredients
Filling
- 2 cans (21 ounces each) apple pie filling
Topping
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 box (about 15.25 ounces) yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
For Serving
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Layer apple filling: Spread the apple pie filling evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish to create the base layer.
- Add cinnamon sugar: In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the apple filling to add spice and sweetness.
- Sprinkle cake mix: Evenly sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix on top of the cinnamon sugar layer. Avoid mixing the layers; this dry layer will bake up crispy and golden.
- Pour butter mixture: In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract. Drizzle this liquid mixture evenly over the dry cake mix layer, ensuring it covers as much surface as possible for even baking.
- Add nutmeg (optional): Sprinkle ground nutmeg over the top for an added warm spice flavor, if desired.
- Bake the cake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
- Cool and serve: Allow the cake to cool for at least 15 minutes to set before serving. Serve warm with a generous scoop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream on top.
Notes
- For a crispier topping, add 1/4 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts before baking.
- You can substitute fresh sliced apples tossed with cinnamon and sugar in place of canned apple pie filling for a fresher taste.
- This dessert can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated before serving.
