As the crisp autumn air settles in and the vibrant colors of fall take over, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting dessert to complete your seasonal meals. Introducing the Caramel Apple Pecan Dump Cake—a perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and nutty flavors that captures the essence of fall in every bite. This easy-to-make cake requires only a handful of ingredients, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this dessert is sure to become a beloved staple in your recipe collection.
Embracing the Sweetness of Fall with Caramel Apple Pecan Dump Cake
Dump cakes are beloved for their simplicity and delicious results, and this Caramel Apple Pecan variation takes the classic concept to new heights. By combining rich caramel with tart apple pie filling and crunchy pecans, this dessert offers a harmonious mix of textures and flavors. The choice of spice or butter cake mix adds a moist and flavorful base that perfectly complements the gooey caramel and fruity apples. As the cake bakes, your kitchen will be filled with an irresistible aroma that makes anticipation for the final product nearly unbearable. Best enjoyed warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and an extra drizzle of caramel sauce, this dump cake is a true showstopper that will impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients for Caramel Apple Pecan Dump Cake
SAUCE
- 2 cans (21 ounces each / 600 grams each) apple pie filling
- 1/2 cup (120 grams) caramel sauce, such as the kind used for ice cream
CAKE INGREDIENTS
- 1 box (15.25 ounces / 430 grams) spice cake mix or butter cake mix
- 1 cup (230 grams) unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon (3 grams) cinnamon
TOPPING
- 1 cup (100 grams) chopped pecans
How to Prepare Caramel Apple Pecan Dump Cake
- Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan: Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Grease a 9×13-inch (23×33 centimeters) baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray to ensure easy removal of the cake after baking.
- Combine the Apple Pie Filling and Caramel Sauce: In the prepared baking dish, evenly spread the two cans of apple pie filling. Drizzle the 1/2 cup of caramel sauce over the apple pie filling, ensuring an even distribution. Sprinkle the 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon over the top to add a warm, spicy note to the dessert.
- Add the Cake Mix and Butter: Open the box of spice cake mix or butter cake mix and pour it directly over the caramel and apple mixture in the baking dish. Spread the dry cake mix evenly across the top of the pie filling. Pour the melted unsalted butter over the cake mix, ensuring all areas are moistened to help create a rich, cohesive layer as the cake bakes.
- Sprinkle with Pecans: Evenly distribute the chopped pecans over the top of the cake mix and butter layer. The pecans add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the sweet and tangy elements of the cake.
- Bake the Cake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 50-55 minutes. The cake is ready when the top turns a light golden brown and the apple filling begins to bubble around the edges. To ensure thorough baking, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake—it should come out clean when the cake is done.
- Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool slightly on a wire rack. For the best flavor and texture, refrigerate the cake for at least 24 hours before serving. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the caramel to set just right.
- Invert and Serve: When ready to serve, invert the baking dish onto a serving platter. The caramel will flow over the sides, creating a luscious topping that pairs perfectly with the soft, moist cake and chunky apple filling. Slice into squares and serve warm, ideally accompanied by a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent touch.
- Yield: Serves 10
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-55 minutes
- Chilling Time: 24 hours
The Caramel Apple Pecan Dump Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of fall’s best flavors and textures. The combination of sweet caramel, tart apples, and crunchy pecans creates a harmonious blend that is both satisfying and irresistible. Its simplicity in preparation makes it an excellent choice for any occasion, from family dinners to festive parties. As you serve each slice, the rich layers and gooey caramel are sure to impress your guests and satisfy their sweet cravings. Whether enjoyed warm with ice cream or chilled for a firmer texture, this dump cake embodies the cozy, comforting essence of autumn. Embrace the season’s bounty with this delightful dessert and watch it become a cherished favorite in your culinary repertoire.
