Apple Dump Cake

Apple desserts are a must in our house once fall rolls around, and this Homemade Apple Dump Cake is one of the easiest ways to enjoy them. Instead of using canned apple pie filling, this version starts with fresh apples tossed with cinnamon, brown sugar, and a splash of apple cider for a filling that tastes completely homemade. Topped with a buttery cake layer and baked until golden and bubbly, it's the kind of simple dessert that's perfect for everything from weeknight dinners to holiday gatherings. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and you have a cozy fall dessert that's always a crowd-pleaser.

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Apple Dump Cake

Prep: 15-20 min | Bake: 50-60 min | Total: 1 hr 20 min

Yields ~12 servings

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Ingredients

Cake Mix

• 1 1/4 cups all purpose flour

• 3/4 cup granulated sugar

• 1 tsp baking powder

• 1/2 tsp baking soda

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

Filling

• 8 cups apples, peeled and sliced (about 8–10 medium apples)

• ½ cup light brown sugar

• ¼ cup granulated sugar

• 2 teaspoons cinnamon

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch

• ¼ cup water

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 tablespoon apple cider (may substitute lemon or orange juice)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

2. Make the Apple Filling:
   In a large bowl, toss together the apples, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, cornstarch, apple cider, vanilla, and lemon juice.

3. Mix the Cake Topping:
   In a separate bowl, stir together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. This is your homemade “cake mix.”

4. Assemble the Cake:
   Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the apple filling in the pan. Do not stir.

5. Drizzle Butter:
   Slowly drizzle the melted butter over the entire surface, trying to moisten as much of the dry mix as possible. You can use a spoon or spatula to gently press down any dry spots if needed, but don't mix.

6. Bake:
   Bake in the preheated oven for 50–60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.

7. Cool & Serve:
   Allow the cake to cool for at least 20–30 minutes before serving. It can be served warm, at room temperature, or chilled.
   Optional: Serve with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream!

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