Quick Apple Dump Cake with Vanilla Glaze for Weeknights

I remember the first time I made a dump cake—it was a chilly winter evening, and my kitchen smelled like cinnamon and baked apples. That cozy feeling inspired this Apple Dump Cake with Vanilla Glaze, a simple, one-pan dessert everyone can enjoy. Perfect as a winter dessert recipe or an easy holiday dump cake, it’s family-friendly, customizable, and quick to make—ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This apple dump cake with fresh apples is one of those comforting desserts that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Inspired by the Pioneer Woman apple dump cake, this easy apple dump cake with vanilla glaze is quick to assemble yet delivers bakery-level flavor. You can even try variations like caramel apple dump cake or a simple 3-ingredient apple dump cake with vanilla glaze for minimal prep. Whether you prefer an old fashioned apple dump cake with vanilla glaze or a Pioneer Woman apple dump cake with vanilla glaze, this recipe is perfect for weeknight treats, holiday gatherings, or any time you crave a cozy, sweet, one-pan dessert. It’s also versatile enough to make as a 4 ingredient apple dump cake or even an apple dump cake without cake mix. From beginner bakers to seasoned cooks, this apple dump cake recipe offers simplicity, flavor, and nostalgia all in one dish, making it a go-to dessert you’ll return to again and again.

Ingredients for This Recipe

This apple dump cake with fresh apples is all about layering simple, flavorful ingredients to create a comforting, one-pan dessert. The apple base combines sweet apple pie filling with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, giving the cake a classic winter dessert flavor. Adding a touch of lemon juice brightens the apples and balances the sweetness. The topping uses a box cake mix, making it an easy apple dump cake with vanilla glaze that requires minimal effort. Melted butter or sliced butter creates a golden, slightly crisp cake layer, while the optional vanilla glaze adds a sweet finishing touch that elevates the dessert. This recipe is versatile—perfect as a Pioneer Woman apple dump cake inspiration, a caramel apple dump cake variation, or even a 3-ingredient apple dump cake with vanilla glaze. Each component works together to make an old fashioned apple dump cake with vanilla glaze that is quick, simple, and crowd-pleasing, ideal for busy weeknights or special holiday gatherings.

🛒 Ingredients:

Apple Base:
2 cans (21 oz each) apple pie filling
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)

Topping:
1 box (15 oz) yellow or spice cake mix
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted or sliced

Vanilla Glaze:
1 cup powdered sugar
1–2 tablespoons milk (or cream for richer flavor)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make This Recipe

Making this apple dump cake with fresh apples is incredibly simple, perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike. Start by layering sweet apple pie filling with warm spices to create a flavorful base. Inspired by the Pioneer Woman apple dump cake, this recipe is versatile—you can turn it into a caramel apple dump cake for extra indulgence or a 3-ingredient apple dump cake for minimal prep. Using a boxed cake mix makes this an easy apple dump cake recipe, but you can also make an apple dump cake without cake mix if you prefer. Slice or melt butter over the top to create a golden, crisp cake layer. Finish with a drizzle of vanilla glaze to turn it into an old fashioned apple dump cake with vanilla glaze or a Pioneer Woman apple dump cake with vanilla glaze. Whether it’s a 4 ingredient apple dump cake or a 3-ingredient apple dump cake, this dessert is a crowd-pleasing, one-pan treat for holidays or cozy weeknights.

🛠 Instructions:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Spread apple pie filling evenly in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Sprinkle cinnamon, nutmeg, and optional lemon juice over apples.
Evenly sprinkle dry cake mix over the apple layer.
Drizzle melted or sliced butter evenly on top of the cake mix.
Bake for 45–50 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla to make the vanilla glaze.
Drizzle glaze over warm cake before serving.
Serve warm and enjoy this easy apple dump cake with vanilla glaze.

Expert Cooking Tips

To make the perfect apple dump cake with fresh apples, focus on layering and balancing flavors. For a Pioneer Woman apple dump cake or a caramel apple dump cake, use fresh or high-quality canned apple pie filling for the best texture. When making a 3-ingredient dump cake or a 4 ingredient apple dump cake, precise measurements and even distribution of the cake mix and butter are key to an evenly baked, golden top. For an old fashioned apple dump cake with vanilla glaze, drizzle the glaze while the cake is still warm to achieve a smooth, shiny finish. If you prefer an apple dump cake without cake mix, combine flour, sugar, and butter to replicate the topping. Whether it’s a 3-ingredient apple dump cake or a Pioneer Woman apple dump cake with vanilla glaze, these tips will ensure your apple dump cake recipe is moist, flavorful, and irresistible every time.

💡 Expert Tips:

Use fresh apples or high-quality canned apple pie filling for flavor.
Distribute cake mix evenly for a uniform topping.
Slice or melt butter carefully for a golden crust.
Drizzle vanilla glaze over warm cake for the best finish.
Experiment with caramel or spices for a Pioneer Woman apple dump cake variation.
For a 3-ingredient dump cake, simplify layers without losing flavor.
Adjust baking time slightly for thicker or thinner apple layers.
Serve warm to enjoy the soft, tender texture of your apple dump cake recipe.

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This apple dump cake with fresh apples is the ultimate easy dessert, perfect for cozy nights or holiday celebrations. Inspired by the Pioneer Woman apple dump cake, it’s a versatile recipe that can be made as a caramel apple dump cake or a simple 3-ingredient apple dump cake for minimal effort. Whether you prefer a 4 ingredient apple dump cake, an old fashioned apple dump cake with vanilla glaze, or an apple dump cake without cake mix, this apple dump cake recipe delivers comforting flavors and a one-pan convenience that will keep everyone coming back for more. For an extra-special touch, try the Pioneer Woman apple dump cake with vanilla glaze to elevate the classic dessert into a family favorite.

Apple Dump Cake with Vanilla Glaze

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• Author: Savannah
• Total Time: 40–45 minutes
• Yield: 10–12 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This easy dessert layers tender, spiced apples with a buttery cake topping, finished with a smooth vanilla glaze. It’s perfect for fall gatherings or anytime you want a cozy, sweet treat without much effort.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

🛒 Ingredients:

Apple Base:

• 2 cans (21 oz each) apple pie filling

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)

Topping:

• 1 box (15 oz) yellow or spice cake mix

• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted or sliced

Vanilla Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 1–2 tablespoons milk (or cream for richer flavor)

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

📝 Instructions:

 

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Prepare Apple Layer: Spread apple pie filling evenly in the dish. Sprinkle with cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice.

3. Add Cake Mix: Sprinkle dry cake mix evenly over the apples. Do not stir.

4. Add Butter: Drizzle or dot melted butter over the cake mix.

5. Bake: Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbling.

6. Prepare Glaze: Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Adjust consistency with more milk or sugar if needed.

7. Serve: Let the cake cool slightly, then drizzle the vanilla glaze over the top. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

• Extra Flavor: Add a pinch of ground ginger or allspice to the apple layer for deeper warmth.
• Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter and a milk alternative for the glaze.
• Storage: Cover and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days. Reheat portions gently before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baked
• Cuisine: American / Fall