What is a salted caramel lava dump cake?

A salted caramel lava dump cake is a decadent dessert featuring a gooey, molten caramel center layered with cake mix and fresh apples. Similar to a Betty Crocker Caramel Apple Dump Cake or the Pioneer Woman Apple Dump Cake, it combines the ease of a cake with box mix and the richness of a salted caramel lava cake. Optional chocolate chips can transform it into a chocolate caramel dump cake.

Can I make this as a caramel apple dump cake 4 ingredients version?

Yes, you can simplify the recipe using just a boxed cake mix, apples, caramel sauce, and butter. This easy salted caramel lava dump cake approach is perfect for busy weeknights or quick desserts while still delivering the indulgent flavor of an old fashioned salted caramel lava dump cake.

Can I use fresh apples instead of canned?

Absolutely. Using peeled fresh apples turns this into a caramel apple dump cake with fresh apples, giving the dessert a natural sweetness and slightly firmer texture. It pairs beautifully with caramel sauce to create the best salted caramel lava dump cake experience.

Can I share this on social media like Facebook?

Yes! Many fans of caramel apple dump cake post their creations on Facebook. This recipe, similar to a salted caramel lava dump cake Pioneer Woman version or chocolate caramel dump cake twist, is visually irresistible and perfect for sharing.

Salted Caramel Lava Dump Cake – Easy Gooey Dessert 2025

Name: Salted Caramel Lava Dump Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8-10 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box yellow or white cake mix; 2–3 cups peeled and sliced fresh apples (or 1 can apple pie filling); 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade); 1/2 teaspoon sea salt; 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional); Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream (optional); Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional); Drizzle of extra caramel sauce (optional)

Description

A decadent, gooey dessert combining the richness of caramel and chocolate with a moist cake base. Perfect for weeknight treats or special occasions, this dump cake “melts” in your mouth, delivering a salted caramel lava effect with every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

🛒 Ingredients (for one 9×13-inch pan):

For the Cake:

1 box yellow or white cake mix
2–3 cups peeled and sliced fresh apples (or 1 can apple pie filling)
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted

For the Salted Caramel Lava Layer:

1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1/2 teaspoon sea salt (adjust to taste)
1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional for extra richness)

Optional Toppings:

Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
Chopped pecans or walnuts
Drizzle of extra caramel sauce

Instructions

📝 Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat Oven & Prepare Pan
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.

Step 2: Layer Apples & Cake Mix
Spread the sliced apples evenly in the prepared pan. Sprinkle the dry cake mix over the apples, making sure the fruit is mostly covered.

Step 3: Add Butter & Caramel
Drizzle melted butter over the cake mix evenly. Pour caramel sauce on top and sprinkle with sea salt. Add chocolate chips if using.

Step 4: Bake
Bake for 40–45 minutes, until the top is golden and the edges are bubbly. The center should be gooey and molten-like.

Step 5: Serve
Let cool for 5–10 minutes before serving. Scoop onto plates and top with whipped cream or ice cream. Drizzle extra caramel and sprinkle nuts if desired.

Notes

Fresh Apples: Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best for a balance of tartness and sweetness.
Caramel Sauce: Warm slightly for easier drizzling.
Make Ahead: Assemble ahead of time and refrigerate; bake just before serving for fresh molten lava effect.
Mini Version: Use ramekins for individual servings—bake 20–25 minutes.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
Category: Dessert / Cake
Method: Baked / Layered / Gooey
Cuisine: American