Easy Caramel Apple Dump Cake & Cinnamon Streusel Recipe

Growing up, I always loved desserts that felt homemade without hours in the kitchen. This Apple Cinnamon Streusel Dump Cake captures that spirit—quick, easy, and perfect for family gatherings or a busy weeknight treat. Using my favorite winter dessert recipes and simple dessert recipes, this easy dump cake recipe layers apples, cinnamon, and a buttery streusel topping, making it a one-pan dessert everyone will rave about, whether it’s a cozy night in or holiday dessert time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s quick, comforting, and full of flavor, this Apple Cinnamon Streusel Dump Cake is exactly what you need. Unlike traditional desserts, this easy apple dump cake layers tender apples, warm cinnamon, and a buttery streusel topping in one simple pan, making it a perfect weeknight or holiday treat. Fans of the Pioneer Woman apple dump cake and classic apple crumble dump cake will love how this recipe elevates familiar flavors. You can make it with fresh apples, try a caramel apple dump cake twist, or enjoy an old fashioned apple cinnamon streusel dump cake for a cozy dessert moment. Even if you’re looking for an apple dump cake without cake mix or a 3 ingredient apple cobbler with cake mix, this version delivers unbeatable flavor with minimal effort. This easy apple cinnamon streusel dump cake has quickly become the best apple cinnamon streusel dump cake in our kitchen, offering a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, from busy weeknights to festive holiday gatherings.

Ingredients for This Recipe

This Apple Cinnamon Streusel Dump Cake combines layers of sweet, tender apples with a soft, buttery cake base and a crisp, cinnamon-spiced streusel topping. The apple base gives the dessert its juicy, comforting flavor, while the cake mix provides a simple, fluffy layer without extra effort. The streusel adds texture and warmth, making this easy apple cinnamon streusel dump cake perfect for winter dessert recipes, holiday gatherings, or a quick dessert for busy weeknights. Using fresh apples or a caramel apple dump cake variation can add even more depth to the flavor, making it a versatile and crowd-pleasing recipe. This combination of ingredients ensures every bite is perfectly balanced, sweet, and comforting, highlighting why this recipe is considered one of the best apple cinnamon streusel dump cake versions around, and why fans of the Pioneer Woman apple dump cake will love it.

Ingredients for apple dump cake
Easy Caramel Apple Dump Cake & Cinnamon Streusel Recipe 13

🛒 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

Streusel:
½ cup all-purpose flour
½ cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
½ cup rolled oats (optional)

How to Make This Recipe

Making the best apple cinnamon streusel dump cake is easier than it sounds, and the results are a warm, comforting dessert the whole family will love. This easy apple cinnamon streusel dump cake builds layers of tender apples, buttery cake, and a crunchy streusel topping, similar to a Pioneer Woman apple dump cake or a classic apple crumble dump cake. You can use fresh apples for an apple dump cake with fresh apples, try a caramel apple dump cake twist, or even make an apple dump cake without cake mix. Whether you’re craving an old fashioned apple cinnamon streusel dump cake or experimenting with a 3 ingredient apple cobbler with cake mix, this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Following these step-by-step instructions ensures your dessert turns out moist, flavorful, and perfectly spiced every time.

🛒 Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Spread apple pie filling evenly in the prepared dish. Sprinkle with cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice if using.
  3. Sprinkle cake mix evenly over the apple layer, covering completely.
  4. Arrange melted or sliced butter over the cake mix.
  5. In a small bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, melted butter, and oats for the streusel. Sprinkle evenly over the cake layer.
  6. Bake 45–50 minutes or until topping is golden brown and apples are bubbly.
  7. Allow to cool slightly before serving. Optionally top with vanilla ice cream or caramel sauce for a caramel apple dump cake twist.

This method guarantees a delicious, easy apple cinnamon dump cake that rivals any apple cinnamon streusel dump cake Pioneer Woman style.

Cooking apple dump cake in skillet
Easy Caramel Apple Dump Cake & Cinnamon Streusel Recipe 14

Expert Cooking Tips

Creating the best apple cinnamon streusel dump cake doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re making an easy apple cinnamon streusel dump cake for a weeknight treat or an old fashioned apple cinnamon streusel dump cake for the holidays, a few expert tips can make all the difference. Fans of the Pioneer Woman apple dump cake or apple crumble dump cake will appreciate these tricks. You can use fresh apples for an apple dump cake with fresh apples, try a caramel apple dump cake variation, or even skip the cake mix for an apple dump cake without cake mix. These tips help ensure your dessert is perfectly moist, flavorful, and golden every time.

💡 Expert Tips:

  • Use fresh, crisp apples for the most flavorful apple dump cake with fresh apples.
  • For a caramel apple dump cake twist, drizzle caramel over the apples before adding the cake mix.
  • Don’t overmix the streusel; sprinkle it gently for a crisp topping.
  • You can make an apple dump cake without cake mix using a simple flour and sugar topping.
  • Serve warm with vanilla ice cream to elevate your easy apple cinnamon streusel dump cake.
  • Bake in the center of the oven for even cooking, ensuring the best apple cinnamon streusel dump cake Pioneer Woman style.
Variations of apple dump cake
Easy Caramel Apple Dump Cake & Cinnamon Streusel Recipe 15

FAQS

What is an apple dump cake?

An apple dump cake is a simple dessert where you layer apples, cake mix, and butter in one pan. This easy apple cinnamon streusel dump cake version adds a buttery streusel topping for extra texture and flavor. Fans of the Pioneer Woman apple dump cake or apple crumble dump cake will love how quickly it comes together.

Can I make an apple dump cake without cake mix?

Yes! You can make an apple dump cake without cake mix by using a simple combination of flour, sugar, and butter for the topping. This still creates a moist and flavorful dessert similar to the best apple cinnamon streusel dump cake.

Can I use fresh apples for this dump cake?

Absolutely. Using fresh apples turns this recipe into a delicious apple dump cake with fresh apples. You can also try a caramel apple dump cake variation for a richer, indulgent dessert.

How long does the easy apple cinnamon streusel dump cake last?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. Reheat slightly before serving for a warm, comforting dessert. This old fashioned apple cinnamon streusel dump cake stays moist and flavorful even after a few days.

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This Apple Cinnamon Streusel Dump Cake is the perfect dessert for any occasion, from cozy weeknights to festive holiday gatherings. Whether you’re making an easy apple cinnamon streusel dump cake for a quick treat or an old fashioned apple cinnamon streusel dump cake for family and friends, the combination of tender apples, buttery cake, and a crisp streusel topping never disappoints. Fans of the Pioneer Woman apple dump cake or apple crumble dump cake will love this versatile recipe. You can also try a caramel apple dump cake twist or an apple dump cake with fresh apples for extra flavor. Simple, delicious, and satisfying, this recipe has quickly earned a spot as the best apple cinnamon streusel dump cake, offering comfort, convenience, and sweet, warm flavors in every bite.

Print
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Apple Cinnamon Streusel Dump Cake

Apple Cinnamon Streusel Dump Cake


  • Author: Savannah
  • Total Time: 40–45 minutes
  • Yield: 1012 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This dessert layers tender, spiced apples with a buttery cake topping and a crunchy cinnamon streusel. Easy to assemble, bake, and serve, it’s perfect with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.


Ingredients

Scale

Apple Base:

  • 2 cans (21 oz each) apple pie filling

  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, to brighten flavor)

Topping:

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

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

Streusel:

  • ½ cup all-purpose flour

  • ½ cup brown sugar

  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon

  • ¼ teaspoon salt

  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

  • ½ cup rolled oats (optional for extra crunch)


Instructions

📝 Instructions:

 

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

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

  3. Add Cake Mix: Sprinkle dry cake mix evenly over the apples. Do not stir. Drizzle or dot melted butter over the cake mix.

  4. Make Streusel: In a small bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, oats, and melted butter. Mix until crumbly. Sprinkle evenly over the cake mix layer.

  5. Bake: Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and apples are bubbling.

  6. Cool & Serve: Let cool slightly. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or caramel drizzle.

Notes

  • Extra Flavor: Add ½ teaspoon ground ginger or allspice to the apple layer for deeper warmth.
  • Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter for topping and streusel.
  • Make Ahead: Can be prepared a day in advance and baked just before serving.
  • Storage: Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate up to 4 days.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American / Fall-Inspired

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