1. What is the biggest mistake to avoid when making a dump cake?

The most common mistake is stirring the layers . Simply “dump” the ingredients as directed—mixing changes the texture and prevents that signature golden, crumbly topping.

2. Why do they call it dump cake?

It’s named for its method! You literally dump all the ingredients into a baking dish—no mixing, no hassle—making this Vegan Dump Cake: Apple Cinnamon Dump Cake one of the easiest desserts ever.

3. What is apple dump cake made of?

A mix of apple pie filling (or fresh apples), dry cake mix, vegan butter, and cozy spices like cinnamon and nutmeg—simple ingredients that create bakery-quality flavor.

4. Can I make this apple dump cake without cake mix?

Yes! Substitute a homemade mix of flour, sugar, and baking powder for a wholesome, scratch-made version that keeps the same delicious flavor and texture.

Apple Cinnamon Dump Cake – Best Easy Dessert 2025

Name: Vegan Dump Cake: Apple Cinnamon Dump Cake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 2 cans (21 oz each) apple pie filling or 4 cups peeled and sliced apples; 2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional, for extra sweetness); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional); 1 box yellow or spice cake mix (15 oz); ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted vegan butter, melted; Optional: ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts

Description

This cozy dessert combines tender spiced apples with a golden, buttery cake topping. It’s a foolproof fall favorite—perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

🛒 Ingredients:

2 cans (21 oz each) apple pie filling or 4 cups peeled and sliced apples
2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
1 box yellow or spice cake mix (15 oz)
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
Optional: ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts

Instructions

📝 Instructions:

Preheat Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Apple Layer: Spread apple pie filling (or fresh apple mixture tossed with sugar and cinnamon) evenly in the dish.
Add Cake Mix: Sprinkle dry cake mix evenly over the apples. Do not stir.
Top with Butter: Drizzle melted butter evenly over the cake mix.
Optional Crunch: Sprinkle nuts evenly over the top.
Bake: Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Cool & Serve: Cool slightly before serving warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Notes

For a deeper flavor, mix ½ teaspoon cinnamon into the cake mix before baking.
Substitute melted coconut oil or dairy-free butter for a vegan version.
For extra crisp topping, use ½ butter + ½ heavy cream drizzled over the top before baking.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40–45 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American