3-ingredient apple dump cake is a simple, irresistible dessert that comes together in minutes. With just a box of cake mix, apple pie filling, and butter, you can bake a warm, comforting treat perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or a cozy fall dessert.
This easy dessert follows the same fuss-free method as other popular dump cakes like chocolate cherry, rhubarb, and strawberry pie filling versions. Prep takes less than five minutes: just “dump” the ingredients into a baking dish, no mixing bowls required. Serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream, or enjoy it chilled—the tender apples and buttery cake topping are delicious either way.
The name “dump cake” comes from the straightforward method: you literally dump the filling and dry cake mix into a pan, then drizzle melted butter over the top. There’s no stirring and virtually no cleanup.
No stirring.
No extra bowls to wash.
This dessert delivers apple-pie-like flavors with far less effort than a traditional pie. If you enjoy apple pie crescent rolls or other quick apple desserts, this dump cake is a great, low-effort alternative.
Ingredients
Notes and substitutions: yellow or butter cake mix both work; two cans of apple pie filling are preferred for full coverage, though one can can be used if necessary; salted or unsalted butter is fine.
- Apple pie filling — 2 (21-ounce) cans (about 42 ounces)
- Yellow cake mix — 1 box (15.25 ounces)
- Butter — 3/4 cup, melted (salted or unsalted)
- Optional toppings: vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or caramel sauce
Apple Dump Cake Variations
Customize the basic recipe with simple additions:
- Apple spice: use a spice cake mix or sprinkle 1 teaspoon of apple pie spice or cinnamon over the cake mix before baking.
- Apple pecan: stir in or sprinkle chopped pecans for texture.
- Caramel apple: drizzle caramel sauce over each serving.
- Apple crisp-style: use spice cake mix and top with oat granola or oats and brown sugar for a crispier topping.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Simple steps with minimal prep. Full printable recipe card is included below.
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly coat a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
Step 2: Pour both cans of apple pie filling into the prepared baking dish, spreading them evenly.
Step 3: Sprinkle the dry cake mix in an even layer over the apple filling.
Step 4: Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the cake mix. It won’t cover every bit of the dry mix — that’s normal.
Step 5: Bake for 40–45 minutes, until the filling is bubbly around the edges and the top is mostly dry and golden.
Let the cake cool slightly, then serve warm.
Serving Suggestions
Top warm servings with whipped cream or a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic à la mode treat. A drizzle of caramel sauce adds extra sweetness and pairs beautifully with the apples.
How to Store
Cover leftovers tightly and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 20 seconds or warm in the oven until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Homemade apple pie filling works great and gives a fresher apple flavor if you prefer to make it from scratch.
Yes. Once cooled, transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Absolutely. Try different fruit pie fillings—peach, cherry, or berry varieties work well with the same dump-cake method.
More apple dessert ideas
- Apple Pie Cupcakes
- Snickers Apple Salad
- Crockpot Fried Apples
- Apple Mini Pie Cookies
- Apple Nachos
- Glazed Apple Cookies
- Caramel cream cheese apple dip
Apple Dump Cake
Author: Jaclyn
Ingredients
- 42 ounces apple pie filling (2 x 21-ounce cans)
- 15.25 ounces yellow cake mix (1 box)
- ¾ cup butter, melted
- Optional: vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, and/or caramel sauce
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Coat a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Add both cans of apple pie filling to the baking dish and spread evenly.
- Pour the cake mix in an even layer over the apple filling.
- Drizzle melted butter over the cake mix, covering as much as possible.
- Bake 40–45 minutes, until bubbly around the edges and the top is mostly dry.
- Serve warm topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, if desired.
Notes
Nutrition
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Calories: 204 kcal
Did You Make This Recipe?
Share your results and enjoy making this easy apple dessert for family and friends.
