Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake Recipe

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort dessert that’s quick, easy, and oh-so-delicious, look no further than Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake! This dessert is a warm, gooey, cinnamon-spiced wonder that combines sweet apples, buttery cake, and that signature snickerdoodle flavor. What’s even better? It’s a dump cake, meaning all you do is “dump” the ingredients in a pan, and the magic happens as it bakes. Trust me, you’re going to love the sweet, cinnamon aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes, and the best part is, it only takes a few minutes to prepare!

Why You’ll Love Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake

  • Incredibly Easy: If you’re someone who wants a homemade dessert without all the hassle, this is the recipe for you! No mixing, no fuss—just dump and bake.
  • Loaded with Flavor: Sweet, cinnamon-coated apples are paired with a buttery, cinnamon cake topping that bakes up into a crispy, crumbly crust. It’s like the best part of a snickerdoodle cookie combined with the comforting richness of an apple pie.
  • Perfectly Sweet: The balance of tart apples with the sweetness of the cake and cinnamon makes for a dessert that’s just the right amount of indulgent.
  • Minimal Ingredients: This recipe uses basic ingredients you probably already have on hand, so it’s a great option for a last-minute treat.

Ingredients

  • Apple pie filling: A can of apple pie filling is the base of this dump cake, making it quick and easy. You can also use homemade apple filling if you prefer.
  • Yellow cake mix: The cake mix forms the crumbly topping. The buttery richness of yellow cake mix is perfect for this dessert.
  • Butter: Lots of melted butter poured over the cake mix gives it that crispy, golden-brown top.
  • Cinnamon: For that snickerdoodle flavor that makes this dessert so irresistible.
  • Sugar: A little extra sugar mixed with cinnamon creates the signature snickerdoodle topping that’s sweet and spicy.

(Note: Full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the cake bakes evenly and gets that perfect golden crust.

Step 2: Prepare the Pan

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. This will help your dump cake come out easily once it’s done baking.

Step 3: Add the Apple Pie Filling

Spread the apple pie filling evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. If you’re using homemade apple filling, make sure it’s spread evenly as well.

Step 4: Sprinkle the Cake Mix

Evenly sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over the apple pie filling. Don’t mix it—just let it sit on top to create the crumbly topping as it bakes.

Step 5: Add Butter and Cinnamon Sugar

Melt the butter and pour it over the cake mix, making sure it’s evenly distributed. Then, in a small bowl, mix together the cinnamon and sugar, and sprinkle this mixture on top of the buttered cake mix. This will create that signature snickerdoodle flavor.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. You’ll know it’s ready when the cake looks crispy and the apples are tender.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Let the cake cool for about 10 minutes before serving. It’s delicious on its own, or you can top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgence!

Nutrition Facts

Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutrition for one serving (based on 9 servings):

  • Calories per serving: 300-350 calories
  • Total Fat: 17g
    • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg
  • Sodium: 220mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 41g
    • Dietary Fiber: 2g
    • Sugars: 28g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Vitamin A: 10%
  • Vitamin C: 2%
  • Calcium: 2%
  • Iron: 6%

Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
  • Total Time: 50-55 minutes

How to Serve Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake

  • With Ice Cream: This dump cake is perfect served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm, gooey cake.
  • Whipped Cream: For an even more indulgent treat, top with a dollop of whipped cream. It’s like a cozy dessert made even more decadent.
  • As a Breakfast: Don’t judge—this sweet treat can also work as a comforting breakfast or brunch option, especially if you have a sweet tooth!

Additional Tips

  • Use Fresh Apples: If you want to make your own apple filling, use fresh apples for a more natural flavor. Just cook them with a little sugar, cinnamon, and cornstarch until thickened.
  • Customize the Cake Flavor: If you want to change up the flavor, try using a spice cake mix or even a butter pecan cake mix for a different twist.
  • Make It Extra Gooey: If you like your dump cake extra gooey, you can reduce the cake mix slightly or add a touch more butter for a richer texture.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make this without the apple pie filling?

A1: Yes! You can make your own apple filling using fresh apples, sugar, cinnamon, and a little cornstarch for thickening.

Q2: Can I use a different cake mix flavor?

A2: Absolutely! You can try spice cake, butter pecan, or even yellow cake for a different flavor profile.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?

A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for up to a week.

Q4: Can I make this in advance?

A4: Yes! You can prepare the cake up to a day in advance and store it covered in the fridge. Bake it just before serving.

Q5: How do I reheat leftovers?

A5: Reheat leftovers in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, or place them in a warm oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until heated through.

Q6: Can I make this gluten-free?

A6: Yes! You can use a gluten-free cake mix in place of the regular yellow cake mix to make this dessert gluten-free.

Q7: Can I add nuts to this recipe?

A7: Definitely! Walnuts or pecans would be a great addition to add some crunch and extra flavor.

Q8: Can I use a different fruit filling?

A8: Yes! You can swap the apple pie filling for other fruit fillings like cherry, blueberry, or peach for a different twist.

Q9: Can I freeze this dump cake?

A9: Yes! You can freeze the baked dump cake for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before wrapping and freezing.

Q10: How do I serve this at a party?

A10: Serve it warm in a large baking dish with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. It’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love!

Conclusion

This Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake is the perfect dessert for when you’re craving something comforting and easy to make. With its gooey, cinnamon-spiced apple filling and buttery cake topping, it’s a guaranteed hit every time. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight treat, a family gathering, or just indulging in a little sweetness, this dump cake will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection!

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Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake Recipe


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  • Author: Olivia
  • Total Time: 0 hours
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x

Description

This Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake is a simple, sweet dessert that combines the tartness of apples with the warm, cinnamon-sugar goodness of snickerdoodle cookies. Easy to make with just a few ingredients, this dump cake is perfect for last-minute desserts or family gatherings!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 can (21 oz) apple pie filling
  • 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix (or vanilla cake mix)
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
  2. Layer the ingredients: Pour the apple pie filling into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. If you like, add a dash of cinnamon or a bit of vanilla extract to the apples for extra flavor.
  3. Add the cake mix: Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the apples. Do not stir; the cake mix should remain dry and crumbly on top of the apples.
  4. Make the snickerdoodle topping: In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle this cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the top of the cake mix layer.
  5. Drizzle the butter: Pour the melted butter evenly over the top of the cake mix and cinnamon-sugar layer. It may look like a lot of butter, but it will soak into the cake mix as it bakes and create a crisp, snickerdoodle-like topping.
  6. Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cake mixture is set. The edges should be crispy and bubbly.
  7. Serve: Let the dump cake cool for a few minutes before serving. It’s delicious on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Notes

  • If you prefer a crunchier topping, you can sprinkle chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans over the top before baking.
  • For a richer flavor, you can use a spiced cake mix or add a bit more cinnamon to the topping.
  • This cake works well with other fruit fillings, such as cherry or peach, if you want to try a variation.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8th of recipe)
  • Calories: 300
  • Sugar: 25g
  • Sodium: 200mg
  • Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 39g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 35mg

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