If you’re looking for an easy, comforting, and irresistible dessert, the Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake is your answer. This quick and simple cake combines the warm, cinnamon-spiced flavors of a snickerdoodle cookie with the gooey, apple-filled goodness of a classic apple pie. The beauty of this dessert lies in its no-fuss, “dump-and-bake” method. With just a few pantry staples—apple pie filling, a box of yellow cake mix, and butter—you can create a warm, comforting dessert that will impress anyone who tries it.

The snickerdoodle aspect comes into play with the addition of cinnamon and sugar, which create a golden, slightly crispy topping that perfectly complements the soft, warm apple filling. Whether you’re preparing for a family dinner, holiday gathering, or just a cozy night in, this dump cake will bring the warmth of home and the flavors of autumn right to your table.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 cans (21 oz each) apple pie filling
  The apple pie filling provides the base of this dessert, offering a sweet, tart flavor with chunks of tender apples.
• 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
  A simple yellow cake mix gives the cake structure and texture. It also acts as the top layer, creating a slightly crisp, buttery topping that contrasts with the soft apple filling beneath.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  Butter helps bind the cake mix and gives the topping a rich, golden brown color when baked.
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  Cinnamon adds warmth and a signature snickerdoodle flavor, making this cake feel cozy and aromatic.
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  Nutmeg complements the cinnamon, offering an earthy, sweet note that deepens the flavor of the apples and cake mix.
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
  Nuts add a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the apple and cake filling. You can use pecans or walnuts based on preference.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  Sugar adds sweetness to the spice mix and gives the cake its signature snickerdoodle flavor.

Preparation

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven is at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake, and it helps ensure the cake bakes evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Layer

Spread the two cans of apple pie filling evenly in the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. The apple filling forms the base of this dump cake and provides the moist, tender fruit that pairs beautifully with the cake mix topping.

Step 3: Add Cinnamon and Nutmeg

In a small bowl, combine 1 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg, and 1/4 cup granulated sugar. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the apple pie filling. The cinnamon and nutmeg will infuse the apples with cozy, spiced flavors, creating a comforting, aromatic foundation for the cake.

Step 4: Add the Cake Mix

Evenly sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over the apple pie filling. Be sure to spread it out as evenly as possible. Don’t stir the mixture; the cake mix should remain dry on top. As it bakes, the butter will melt and mix with the cake mix, forming a golden, slightly crispy topping.

Step 5: Drizzle Butter Over the Cake Mix

Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top of the cake mix. Try to cover as much of the cake mix as possible, as the butter will help the topping bake up into a golden, slightly crumbly, and deliciously crisp layer.

Step 6: Add Nuts (Optional)

If you’re using nuts, sprinkle the chopped pecans or walnuts evenly over the top of the cake mix. The nuts will add texture and a toasted flavor, enhancing the richness of the dessert.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the apples are bubbling around the edges. Keep an eye on the cake during the last few minutes to ensure the topping doesn’t burn. If needed, cover the cake loosely with aluminum foil and continue baking.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the cake to set slightly, making it easier to serve.

Variation

This Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake is versatile, and there are several ways to customize it based on your preferences:

• Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle caramel sauce over the top of the baked cake for extra sweetness and a gooey, indulgent finish. This pairs especially well with the apples and cinnamon.
• Spiced Cake Mix: Use a spiced cake mix instead of the yellow cake mix for an even deeper flavor. A spiced cake mix often contains cinnamon, nutmeg, and other warm spices, enhancing the overall flavor of the dessert.
• Add Fruit: In addition to the apple pie filling, you can stir in fresh or canned pears or even cranberries for a fruit combination that adds more complexity to the flavor.
• Coconut Topping: For an interesting twist, sprinkle shredded coconut over the top of the cake mix before adding the melted butter. The coconut will toast during baking, adding another layer of texture and flavor.

Cooking Notes

• Don’t Stir the Cake Mix: One key to a successful dump cake is to avoid stirring the cake mix into the apples. The cake mix should sit on top of the apples and melt during baking to create a crumbly, golden top.
• Use a Greased Pan: Greasing the baking dish is important to prevent the cake from sticking, especially because of the butter in the cake mix.
• Substitute Butter for Margarine: If you don’t have unsalted butter, you can use margarine as a substitute. However, butter will give the best flavor.
• Adjust Baking Time: Depending on your oven, you may need to adjust the baking time slightly. The cake should be golden brown and bubbling around the edges when it’s done.

Serving Suggestions

Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake is best served warm and fresh from the oven. Here are some serving ideas:

• Serve with Ice Cream: Top each serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or cinnamon ice cream for a creamy contrast to the warm, spiced cake.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream can add an extra layer of richness and decadence.
• Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: For an added snickerdoodle touch, dust the top of the cake with a little cinnamon-sugar mixture before serving.
• Drizzle with Caramel: A drizzle of caramel sauce over the cake makes the dessert even more indulgent and enhances the apple flavors.

Tips

• Don’t Overmix: Remember, the key to the perfect dump cake is simplicity. Don’t stir the layers together; let the butter melt into the cake mix and form a topping as it bakes.
• Serve Warm: Dump cakes are best enjoyed warm when the topping is crisp and the apple filling is gooey. If you have leftovers, reheat them in the microwave or oven before serving.
• Make it in Advance: You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately. When you’re ready, simply assemble and bake for a quick, fresh dessert.

perfect for busy days when you want a homemade treat without the hassle. Whether you’re preparing for a family gathering, a potluck, or simply craving something sweet, this dessert is sure to satisfy your taste buds and fill your kitchen with an inviting, aromatic fragrance.

The beauty of the Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake lies in its simplicity. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dessert that has the flavor of a homemade apple pie combined with the nostalgic taste of snickerdoodle cookies. It’s a perfect balance of soft, spiced apples with a crisp, sugary topping that everyone will love.

Additional Tips for Success

• Storage: Leftover dump cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. If you want to store it for longer, keep it in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for about a week. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven to restore its warm, comforting texture.
• Reheating Tips: If you have leftover cake and want to serve it warm again, reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will crisp up the topping again and warm the apple filling. If you’re in a hurry, use the microwave, but be sure to cover it loosely with a paper towel to prevent it from drying out.
• Make it a Breakfast Treat: Believe it or not, this cake could also double as a delightful breakfast or brunch treat. The spiced apple and buttery topping pair perfectly with a hot cup of coffee or tea. Add a dollop of Greek yogurt or whipped cream for a more decadent start to your day.
• Customize Your Flavor: If you love certain spices, feel free to tweak the recipe! Add some ground ginger or cloves for a deeper, more complex flavor profile. You can also experiment with different nut varieties such as almonds or cashews to add a new twist. You can even substitute the cinnamon-sugar topping with a mix of brown sugar and cinnamon for a caramelized effect.
• Crispier Topping: If you prefer a crispier, crunchier topping, consider adding a handful of oats or crushed graham crackers on top of the cake mix before drizzling the butter. This will create more texture and a delightful contrast to the soft apples below.

A Perfect Fall Dessert

This Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake is a great choice for fall, especially when apples are in season. The warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and the occasional clove make it a comforting dessert for cooler evenings. The buttery, sweet topping with crunchy nuts adds a perfect autumnal crunch, while the soft apples provide just the right amount of sweetness.

Whether you’re serving it at a Thanksgiving dinner, enjoying it with a family on a crisp autumn evening, or bringing it to a fall potluck, this dessert is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cooking Time

45-50 minutes

Total Time

55-60 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and based on a 12-serving cake.

• Calories: 300
• Protein: 2g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Sugars: 26g
• Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 35mg
• Fiber: 2g

FAQs

Can I use fresh apples instead of pie filling?
While fresh apples can be used, pie filling is recommended because it is already sweetened and spiced, which simplifies the recipe. If using fresh apples, you’ll need to cook them down with sugar and cinnamon to create a filling.

Can I use a different type of cake mix?
Yes! You can substitute the yellow cake mix with a white cake mix or spice cake mix for a different flavor profile. Spice cake mix will enhance the cinnamon and nutmeg flavors in the recipe.

Is this recipe vegan or gluten-free?
This recipe is neither vegan nor gluten-free, as it contains cake mix and butter. However, you can make it vegan by using a dairy-free butter alternative and a vegan cake mix. For a gluten-free version, you can use a gluten-free yellow cake mix.

Conclusion

Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake is one of those recipes that brings warmth and comfort with every bite. Its ease of preparation, combined with its deliciously familiar flavors of apple, cinnamon, and butter, makes it an ideal dessert for any occasion. Whether served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoyed on its own with a hot cup of coffee, it’s a dessert that everyone will love.

With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, this cake creates a perfect balance of textures—from the soft, gooey apple filling to the crisp, sweet topping. It’s a timeless treat that’s sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.

So, the next time you’re looking for a quick, comforting dessert that’s both delicious and easy to make, the Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake will not disappoint. Give it a try, and let its sweet, cinnamon-spiced goodness fill your home with the warmth of homemade comfort.