If you’re craving a dessert that feels like a warm, cozy hug in every bite, then this Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender, cinnamon-spiced apple pie filling bubbling beneath a beautifully crisp snickerdoodle-inspired topping that’s sweet, buttery, and just slightly crunchy. This dessert brings together the beloved flavors of soft apples and cinnamon sugar with the ease of assembling a dump cake, making it a perfect choice for a quick but impressive treat that everyone will adore. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or anytime you want a simple homemade dessert, this recipe never fails to charm.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients ready for this Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake Recipe is super straightforward, but each component plays an important role to deliver the perfect balance of flavors and textures. From the classic apple pie filling to the crunchy cinnamon sugar topping, every ingredient contributes something special.
- Apple pie filling (1 can, 21 oz): This sweet and tender base brings that classic apple flavor and juicy texture to the cake.
- Yellow cake mix (1 box, 15.25 oz): Using a cake mix makes this recipe foolproof and adds a soft, crumbly crust that bakes to golden perfection.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted): The butter soaks into the cake mix and creates that irresistible snickerdoodle crunch on top.
- Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Adds warmth and depth, tying the apples and snickerdoodle flavors together beautifully.
- Granulated sugar (1/4 cup): Mixed with cinnamon to create the classic snickerdoodle sugar coating that balances the tart apples.
- Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon, optional): A splash of vanilla amps up the aroma and adds a hint of sweetness that complements the apples.
- Chopped walnuts or pecans (1/4 cup, optional): For some crunchy texture and nutty flavor making each bite even more delightful.
How to Make Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Dish
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and either lightly grease it with butter or spritz with a non-stick cooking spray. Prepping the dish this way makes sure your cake comes out easily after baking without losing any of that delicious topping.
Step 2: Layer the Apple Pie Filling
Pour the apple pie filling right into the prepared dish, spreading it out evenly so every slice gets plenty of those tender, cinnamon-sweet apples. If you’re feeling fancy, you can also stir in a bit of vanilla extract or sprinkle some extra cinnamon over the filling at this point for an extra flavor boost.
Step 3: Add the Cake Mix
Next, sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the top of the apples. An important tip here is not to stir or mix the layers—this dry cake mix will bake to form that irresistible soft yet crumbly texture that makes these dump cakes so special.
Step 4: Create the Snickerdoodle Sugar Topping
In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle this cinnamon-sugar mixture over the cake mix layer evenly. This sweet, spicy sugar will give your cake its signature snickerdoodle crunch and lovely golden color.
Step 5: Drizzle Melted Butter
Pour the melted butter evenly over the entire top of the cake. It might seem like a lot, but this butter works magic, soaking into the cake mix and sugar to form a crisp, snickerdoodle-like crust that’s just heavenly.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling
Slide your baking dish into the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is a beautiful golden brown, the edges bubble up with delicious apple juices, and the cake layer is set. This period lets everything meld into a dessert that’s simultaneously soft, perfectly spiced, and crunchy.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Give your Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake Recipe a few minutes to cool before serving. This resting time helps the layers settle for easier slicing and lets the flavors mature. It’s wonderful alone, but even better with some vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side.
How to Serve Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your serving, consider topping slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or freshly whipped cream. A sprinkle of cinnamon or chopped nuts adds an elegant, flavorful touch that guests will notice and appreciate every time.
Side Dishes
This dump cake pairs fabulously with a hot cup of coffee, spiced chai, or even a creamy hot chocolate. You can also balance the sweetness by serving it alongside a sharp cheddar cheese slice for an old-fashioned twist.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve this Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake Recipe in individual ramekins or clear glass jars to showcase the layers. Drizzle caramel sauce or honey on top before serving for a tempting finish that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store them in the refrigerator. This cake keeps beautifully for up to 4 days, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert for busy weeks.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freeze the dump cake in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating, and your dessert will taste just as wonderful as when freshly baked.
Reheating
To reheat, pop individual portions into the microwave for 30-45 seconds or warm the whole dish in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes. This will revive the crunchy topping and warm the apple filling just right.
FAQs
Can I use fresh apples instead of canned apple pie filling?
Yes, you can! Just peel, core, and slice about 6 cups of fresh apples and toss them with sugar, cinnamon, and a bit of lemon juice to replicate the pie filling flavor. Keep in mind that fresh apples might add a bit more texture variety.
Is there a gluten-free option for this dump cake?
Absolutely! Use a gluten-free yellow cake mix, and double-check your pie filling ingredients for gluten content. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so you can enjoy this dessert safely.
Why is it called a dump cake?
Because the method is as simple as it sounds—you basically “dump” layers of ingredients into a pan without mixing them together before baking. It’s all about ease and convenience while still producing delicious results.
Can I make this Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake Recipe vegan?
To make it vegan, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and choose a vegan cake mix. Also, confirm that your pie filling doesn’t contain animal-derived ingredients. With those tweaks, you can enjoy a vegan-friendly dessert.
What makes this cake “snickerdoodle”? Is it the cinnamon?
Yes! The signature snickerdoodle flavor comes from the cinnamon-sugar topping combined with the rich buttery layer on top. That classic spiced sugar crust is what sets this dump cake apart and gives it that beloved snickerdoodle vibe.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dessert recipe that’s simple yet packed with comforting flavors, the Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake Recipe should be at the top of your list. It’s a no-fuss, crowd-pleaser that marries sweet apples with a delightfully crisp cinnamon topping, all in one easy baking dish. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how magically quick and delicious homemade dessert can be!
Print
Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake is a delightfully simple and comforting dessert that combines the classic flavors of apple pie with a sweet, cinnamon-sugar topping reminiscent of snickerdoodle cookies. With layers of apple pie filling, yellow cake mix, and a buttery cinnamon-sugar crust, this dump cake requires minimal effort and delivers maximum flavor—perfect for an easy family dessert or a potluck favorite.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 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
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by greasing it with butter or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Layer the apple filling: Pour the apple pie filling evenly into the prepared baking dish. For extra flavor, optionally add a dash of cinnamon or vanilla extract to the apples and gently stir to combine.
- Add the cake mix: Evenly sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over the apple layer. Avoid stirring; keep the cake mix as a dry, crumbly topping over the apples.
- Prepare the snickerdoodle topping: In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar with the ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the cake mix layer to create a sweet, spicy crust.
- Drizzle with melted butter: Pour the melted unsalted butter evenly over the entire top layer. This butter will soak into the cake mix while baking, creating a crisp, snickerdoodle-like texture and flavor on the crust.
- Bake the cake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. The top should turn golden brown, the edges crispy and bubbly, and the cake mixture set.
- Cool and serve: Let the dump cake cool for a few minutes before serving. This dessert is delicious served warm, either on its own or accompanied by a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Notes
- Optional additions like chopped walnuts or pecans add a nice crunch and extra flavor.
- You can swap yellow cake mix for vanilla cake mix if preferred; both work beautifully.
- If using vanilla extract, stir it into the apple pie filling before layering for a subtle, aromatic touch.
- Don’t stir after layering the cake mix; keeping it dry ensures a crisp topping texture.
- This dump cake stores well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days; reheat gently before serving.
- For a gluten-free version, look for gluten-free yellow cake mix.
