Is there anything better than the warm, sweet combination of caramel and apple? Trust me, this Caramel Apple Dump Cake has quickly become my go-to dessert, especially during cozy fall evenings. Not only does it fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that makes your mouth water, but it also brings back sweet memories of apple picking with my family as a child. We would spend the day in the orchard, laughing and enjoying each other’s company, and I can’t help but think of those moments each time I whip up this delightful treat!
What I love about this recipe is its sheer simplicity. It’s a “dump cake,” which means you can throw everything together without any complicated steps. With a sprinkle of cinnamon to warm your heart and that luscious caramel sauce drizzled on top, this dessert will be a showstopper at any gathering. Let’s dive into the details, shall we?
What’s in Caramel Apple Dump Cake?
Apples: Fresh, crisp apples are the star of the show! I like to use Granny Smith apples for their tartness, but you can also go for Honeycrisp if you prefer a sweeter bite. Just remember to slice them thinly for even cooking!
Caramel Sauce: A rich caramel sauce adds that gooey sweetness we all crave. You can use homemade if you’re feeling adventurous, but a high-quality store-bought sauce works perfectly fine!
Yellow Cake Mix: This is the base of our “dump” cake. The classic yellow cake mix offers a buttery flavor that pairs beautifully with the apples and caramel. I often use Betty Crocker or Duncan Hines brands for their consistent results.
Butter: Regular unsalted butter, melted, is drizzled over the top to ensure a crispy, golden crust forms when baking.
Cinnamon: A pinch of cinnamon adds warmth and depth of flavor, making this dessert feel even more homey.
Is Caramel Apple Dump Cake Good for You?
While this cake is undoubtedly a treat, balancing indulgence with health can be wise. Here’s the scoop:
Apples: They provide fiber and vitamin C, which means you’re getting a bit of nutrition with your dessert. Just don’t forget that the sugar and caramel may outweigh the health benefits, so moderation is key!
Cake Mix: While it’s convenient, cake mixes can contain preservatives and added sugars, so you should keep that in mind if you’re monitoring your sugar intake.
In the end, I believe desserts are meant to be enjoyed, so rather than scraping the recipe for its indulgent aspects, consider sharing it with friends or family. It’s perfect for gatherings or simply treating yourself!
Ingredients
– 4 cups sliced apples (about 4-6 medium apples)
– 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– Optional: whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for serving
This recipe serves about 8 generously.
How to Make Caramel Apple Dump Cake?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish for easy removal later.
2. Slice the apples thinly and spread them evenly in the baking dish.
3. Drizzle the caramel sauce over the sliced apples, making sure to cover them well. Save a bit for drizzling later if you like!
4. In a separate bowl, mix the yellow cake mix with the cinnamon, then sprinkle the dry mixture evenly over the caramel-coated apples.
5. Pour the melted butter over the top of the cake mix, ensuring that it is well covered.
6. Bake for about 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
7. Let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Drizzle with additional caramel sauce if desired!
8. Serve warm with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for that extra indulgence.
Little Tips for a Big Impact!
– Feel free to add in some nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for a delightful crunch.
– If you want a bit of extra spice, consider sprinkling in some nutmeg along with the cinnamon.
– You can make this dessert ahead of time! Just pop it in the refrigerator after it cools and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
I promise, this Caramel Apple Dump Cake will not disappoint! The caramel and apple flavors meld beautifully, creating a delicious harmony that will have everyone asking for seconds. Give it a try, and let me know how it goes—I’d love to hear about your variations or your favorite memories tied to this recipe! Happy baking!
