Are you craving a warm, comforting dessert that's surprisingly simple to make? Look no further than this Apple Spice Dump Cake! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you're looking for a crowd-pleasing treat without spending hours in the kitchen. Forget complicated layers and precise measurements – this easy recipe relies on the magic of "dumping" ingredients into a pan for a spectacularly delicious outcome. Get ready to enjoy the comforting flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and sweet apples baked to golden perfection. This homemade dessert is guaranteed to become a family favorite!
Ingredients:
- 1 (21 ounce) can apple pie filling
- 1 box (15.25 ounce) yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking pan. This simple step ensures your cake won't stick.
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Layer the Apples: Pour the entire can of apple pie filling evenly into the prepared baking pan.
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Spice it Up: Sprinkle the ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves over the apple filling. This adds warmth and depth to the already delicious apple flavor.
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Add the Nuts (Optional): If using, sprinkle the chopped pecans or walnuts over the spiced apples. Nuts add a delightful crunch and extra flavor.
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Cake Crumble Time: In a medium bowl, combine the dry cake mix and melted butter. Mix until crumbly. Don't overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
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Top it Off: Evenly crumble the cake mix mixture over the apple layer. Make sure to distribute it evenly for consistent baking.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Keep an eye on it during the last 5-10 minutes to prevent burning.
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Cool & Serve: Let the cake cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat!
Cooking Tips for the Best Apple Spice Dump Cake:
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the cake crumble can result in a tough topping. Aim for a crumbly consistency.
- Adjust the Spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of spices to your liking. If you love cinnamon, add a little extra!
- Frozen Apples: For a budget-friendly option, you can substitute a bag of frozen apple slices for the canned pie filling. Just make sure to thaw them completely before using.
Variations:
- Cranberry Apple: Add a 12-ounce bag of frozen cranberries to the apple pie filling for a festive twist.
- Streusel Topping: For a richer topping, add 1/4 cup of brown sugar to the cake mix and butter mixture.
- Different Cake Mix: Experiment with different cake mixes, such as spice cake or even a chocolate cake mix for a unique flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: 18-22g
- Saturated Fat: 10-12g
- Carbohydrates: 45-50g
- Sugar: 25-30g
- Protein: 4-5g
This Apple Spice Dump Cake is a perfect example of a delicious dessert that doesn't require extensive baking skills. It’s a quick dinner idea for a simple yet satisfying end to your meal. It’s easy, it’s delicious, and it's sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it! Enjoy!