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

Scale

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)

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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.