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To make the Caramel Apple Dump Cake, you need some simple ingredients. Here’s the list: - 2 cups fresh apples, peeled, cored, and diced - 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade) - 1 package (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional) - 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional) - Vanilla ice cream for serving (optional) Using fresh apples is key. They add natural sweetness and texture. You can choose your favorite type, like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. The caramel sauce brings richness and a sweet touch. You can use store-bought for ease, or make your own for a personal touch. The yellow cake mix provides a soft, sponge-like base. Do not skip the melted butter; it helps with moisture and flavor. Ground cinnamon adds warmth and enhances the apple taste. Chopped nuts can give a nice crunch, while vanilla ice cream is a perfect finish. Check the Full Recipe for more details on how to combine these ingredients for a delicious dessert! - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). - Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. - Peel, core, and dice 2 cups of fresh apples. - Spread the apples evenly in the dish. - Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon over the apples. - Drizzle 1 cup of caramel sauce over the apples. Toss to coat evenly. - Evenly spread 1 package of yellow cake mix over the apple layer. - Melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter. - Pour the melted butter over the cake mix. Cover as much of the mix as you can. - If you want extra crunch, add 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or 1 cup of chopped walnuts on top. - Place the dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 45-50 minutes. - Check for doneness. The top should be golden brown and bubbly. - Allow the cake to cool slightly after baking. - Drizzle more caramel sauce over the top. - Serve warm, with vanilla ice cream if you like. Choosing the right apples is key. I recommend using firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. They hold their shape well and add a nice tartness. Avoid soft apples that can turn mushy. To achieve the perfect golden crust, spread the melted butter evenly. Ensure the butter covers all the cake mix. This helps it bake evenly and become crispy. Keep an eye on the cake as it bakes. You want it golden and bubbly, not burnt. Add spices to take your dump cake to the next level. A pinch of nutmeg or ginger adds warmth. You can also mix in some chopped nuts or dried fruits for extra texture. For serving ideas, consider adding a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This makes the dessert feel more special. A sprinkle of cinnamon or chopped nuts on top adds a nice touch. Serve the cake warm in individual bowls for a cozy feel. Top each serving with a scoop of ice cream and drizzle with more caramel sauce. This creates a stunning display that guests will love. For an indulgent finish, sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top. This adds crunch and looks great. You can also use fresh apple slices as a garnish for a pop of color. {{image_4}} You can swap out the apples for other fruits. Pears and berries work well. Each fruit gives a new taste. Try butterscotch or chocolate sauce too. These sauces add a fun twist to the cake. They bring a different flavor that everyone will love. Gluten-free cake mixes help those with gluten issues. You can find them at most stores. Just check the label to ensure safety. For vegan options, use plant-based butter and milk. You can even make your own cake mix with simple ingredients. This way, you can enjoy the cake without worry. In fall, add pumpkin spice for a cozy feel. Cinnamon apple versions are also perfect for autumn. In summer, use fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries. They add a bright taste that feels refreshing. Each season brings a chance to try something new! To keep your caramel apple dump cake fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container. You can place it in the fridge for up to three days. When you want to reheat it, warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes. This helps keep the texture nice and soft. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick treat. You can freeze your dump cake both before and after baking. If you freeze it before baking, prepare the layers in your dish and cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. When you're ready to bake, just remove the wrap and bake it straight from the freezer. If you decide to freeze it after baking, let it cool completely first. Then, wrap it well and place it in the freezer. To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight. Reheat it in the oven for the best results. In the fridge, your caramel apple dump cake can last for about three days. If you freeze it, it can stay good for about three months. Always check for signs of spoilage, like an off smell or changes in texture. If it looks or smells strange, it’s best to toss it. Enjoy your cake fresh for the best taste! Can I use other types of cake mix? Yes, you can use different cake mixes. Chocolate or spice cake mixes work well. Just remember that the flavor will change based on the mix you choose. Vanilla cake mix also pairs nicely with apples. How do I make homemade caramel sauce? To make homemade caramel sauce, start with sugar. Heat it in a pan over medium heat. Stir until it melts and turns amber. Then, carefully add butter and cream, stirring until smooth. This sauce adds a rich flavor to your dump cake. Is it best served warm or cold? I recommend serving it warm. The warm cake pairs perfectly with cold vanilla ice cream. The contrast creates a delicious treat that everyone loves. Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dump cake ahead. Just assemble it and cover it tightly. Store it in the fridge for up to a day. Bake it right before serving for the best taste. What to do if the cake is too dry or soggy? If your cake is too dry, add more caramel sauce on top after baking. This adds moisture and flavor. If it’s soggy, check your oven temperature. Baking it longer can help firm it up, ensuring the layers set well. How to ensure even baking throughout the dump cake? To ensure even baking, spread the cake mix evenly over the apples. Make sure the melted butter covers the mix well. If needed, rotate the pan halfway through baking. This helps it bake evenly for a perfect dessert. This blog post shared how to make a delicious caramel apple dump cake. We covered the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, variations, and storage information. You can create this treat with ease and enhance it to fit your taste. Remember, experimenting can lead to great flavors. Enjoy making this dessert and impressing your friends and family with your baking skills! You can have fun with different fruits and sauces. Happy baking, and may your dump cake be a huge hit!

Caramel Apple Dump Cake

Indulge your sweet tooth with this Caramel Apple Dump Cake that's incredibly easy to prepare! This gooey dessert features fresh apples, rich caramel, and a buttery cake mix, all baked to perfection. It's the perfect treat for gatherings or cozy nights in. Discover simple steps, tips for perfecting your dump cake, and delicious serving ideas. Click to explore the full recipe and unleash your inner baker with this irresistible dessert!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups fresh apples, peeled, cored, and diced

1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

1 package (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)

1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Vanilla ice cream for serving (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

    In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, place the diced apples evenly in a single layer. Sprinkle the ground cinnamon over the apples to enhance their flavor. Drizzle half of the caramel sauce over the apples, then gently toss to ensure they are well-coated.

      Take the dry cake mix and evenly spread it over the apple and caramel layer, creating a smooth, even surface. Do not mix the layers; this will help the cake layer form during baking.

        Carefully pour the melted unsalted butter over the entire surface of the cake mix, ensuring to cover as much of the mix as possible for an even bake.

          If using, scatter the chopped pecans and walnuts over the top for additional texture and flavor.

            Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

              Once baked, remove the dump cake from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before drizzling the remaining caramel sauce over the surface for added sweetness.

                Serve warm, allowing each portion to be topped with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream if desired.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 1 hour | 8 servings

                    - Presentation Tips: For an inviting presentation, serve the cake in individual bowls, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Drizzle with extra caramel sauce and sprinkle with chopped nuts to create an appealing, indulgent dessert.