If you adore gooey cinnamon rolls and crave the comforting flavors of caramel apples, this Caramel Apple Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake is going to be your new obsession. Imagine the tender bite of cinnamon rolls, the sweetness of apple pie filling, and rivers of buttery caramel all baked together in one glorious, no-fuss dessert. It’s the kind of treat that fills your kitchen with the coziest aroma and brings out smiles with every slice. Whether you’re planning a family brunch or looking for a crowd-pleasing holiday bake, this recipe is irresistibly easy and downright delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed by how a handful of everyday ingredients can transform into such a showstopping dessert! Each component brings a special touch, from the ready-to-bake cinnamon rolls to the drizzle of caramel that ties it all together.
- Refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing: The star of the show, these provide the fluffy, spiced base and come with icing for the perfect finish.
- Apple pie filling: Packed with tender apples and syrupy goodness, it adds fruity sweetness and moistness to every bite.
- Ground cinnamon: A sprinkle of this classic spice deepens the warm, comforting flavor throughout the cake.
- Ground nutmeg: Just a touch gives the dessert a subtle, aromatic kick that makes the apples pop.
- Caramel sauce: This is where the magic happens! It melts into the cake, adding gooey richness and that signature caramel apple vibe.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Helps everything bake up golden and luscious, with a hint of buttery flavor in every bite.
- Chopped pecans (optional): For a nutty crunch that’s absolutely irresistible, especially if you love a little texture in your desserts.
How to Make Caramel Apple Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This simple step ensures nothing sticks and sets the stage for easy serving later. Grab your favorite baking dish—this cake looks beautiful served straight from the oven!
Step 2: Slice the Cinnamon Rolls
Open both cans of refrigerated cinnamon rolls and set the icing packets aside for later. Using a sharp knife or kitchen scissors, cut each cinnamon roll into quarters. These bite-sized pieces will puff up and nestle together to form the cake’s pillowy base.
Step 3: Layer the Cinnamon Rolls
Scatter the cinnamon roll pieces evenly over the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Try to create a single layer, but don’t worry about making it perfect—those little gaps will fill with apple and caramel, creating gooey pockets of flavor.
Step 4: Mix and Add the Apple Filling
In a medium bowl, stir together the apple pie filling, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined. Spoon this fragrant mixture evenly over the cinnamon rolls, making sure to cover every nook and cranny.
Step 5: Drizzle with Caramel and Butter
Pour the caramel sauce generously over the apple layer, letting it seep into all the crevices. Next, drizzle the melted butter over everything to help the cake bake up golden and decadent.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Slide your dish into the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the cinnamon rolls are puffed and golden brown and the whole cake is bubbling with caramel goodness. Your kitchen will smell like pure happiness at this point!
Step 7: Finish and Serve
Let the cake cool for a few minutes. Then, drizzle with the reserved icing packets and an extra swirl of caramel sauce for that signature finish. Sprinkle chopped pecans over the top if you’re feeling fancy. Serve warm and enjoy every gooey forkful.
How to Serve Caramel Apple Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake
Garnishes
Take this dessert over the top with extra caramel sauce, a generous spoonful of the included icing, and a scattering of chopped pecans for crunch. For an extra cozy touch, dust with a little powdered sugar or a wisp of cinnamon.
Side Dishes
A scoop of vanilla ice cream is pure heaven alongside Caramel Apple Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake—the cold creaminess melts right into the warm cake. Or, try a dollop of whipped cream for a lighter finish. Fresh apple slices or a mug of spiced cider are also wonderful partners.
Creative Ways to Present
For a brunch buffet, cut the cake into squares and serve on a pretty platter. Hosting a fall party? Spoon warm portions into individual ramekins, top with ice cream, and drizzle with caramel at the table for a stunning dessert experience. You can even pack leftovers into jars for a sweet, portable treat!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any of this luscious cake left (no promises!), simply cover the baking dish tightly with foil or transfer pieces to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld and stay deliciously moist.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze Caramel Apple Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake! Let it cool completely, then wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Warm individual servings in the microwave for 20–30 seconds, or reheat the whole dish in a 300°F oven until heated through. Add a little extra caramel sauce after reheating to bring back that gooey magic.
FAQs
Can I use homemade apple filling instead of canned?
Absolutely! Sauté peeled, sliced apples with a bit of sugar, cinnamon, and butter until tender. You’ll get a lovely homemade flavor that’s just as delicious as the classic version.
Do I have to use pecans on top?
Not at all! The pecans are optional for a nutty crunch, but you can leave them off or substitute with walnuts, almonds, or even a sprinkle of toffee bits.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the cake a few hours ahead and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
What if I don’t have caramel sauce?
You can skip it, but the caramel really makes this cake shine! In a pinch, warm a few soft caramels with a splash of cream in the microwave to create a quick sauce.
Can I use a different flavor of pie filling?
Definitely—try cherry or peach for a fun twist! The cinnamon rolls pair beautifully with other fruit fillings, so feel free to experiment and make it your own.
Final Thoughts
It’s impossible to resist the sweet, spiced comfort of Caramel Apple Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake. If you’re looking for a dessert that’s easy enough for any day but special enough for celebrations, this one is a must-try. Gather your ingredients and treat yourself—you deserve a little gooey, caramel-packed joy!
Print
Caramel Apple Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful Caramel Apple Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake that combines the warm flavors of cinnamon rolls, apple pie filling, and rich caramel sauce for an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert perfect for fall.
Ingredients
Cinnamon Rolls
- 2 (12.4 oz) cans refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing
Apple Filling
- 1 (21 oz) can apple pie filling
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Toppings & Add-ins
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (plus more for drizzling)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Optional chopped pecans for topping
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Preheat oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and make clean-up easier.
- Cut and Arrange Cinnamon Rolls: Open the cans of cinnamon rolls, cut each roll into quarters, and evenly place the pieces across the bottom of the prepared baking dish to create a base layer.
- Mix Apple Filling: In a bowl, combine the apple pie filling with ground cinnamon and nutmeg to enhance the fall flavors, then spoon this mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces.
- Add Caramel and Butter: Drizzle caramel sauce and melted butter evenly over the apple and cinnamon roll layers to add richness and moisture.
- Bake the Cake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes or until the cinnamon rolls are golden brown and thoroughly cooked through.
- Finish with Icing and Caramel: Allow the cake to cool slightly, then drizzle the cinnamon roll icing packets and additional caramel sauce on top for extra sweetness and a glossy finish.
- Optional Toppings and Serving: Sprinkle with chopped pecans if desired for added texture and serve warm, optionally paired with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Notes
- For a homemade touch, use fresh sautéed apples instead of canned apple pie filling.
- This dessert is delicious served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Chopped pecans add a nice crunch but are optional depending on preference or allergies.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 31g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
