Description
This Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake is an easy and delicious dessert combining the flavors of classic snickerdoodle cookies with warm apple pie filling. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, it creates a crispy cinnamon-sugar topping over tender apples, making it a perfect comforting treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Fruit Layer
- 1 can (21 oz) apple pie filling
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional for apples)
Cake Layer
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix (or vanilla cake mix)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
Optional Toppings
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Layer the apple filling: Pour the apple pie filling evenly into the prepared baking dish. For extra flavor, you can stir in a dash of cinnamon or vanilla extract into the apples before spreading.
- Add the cake mix: Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the apples. Do not stir; keep the cake mix dry and crumbly on top.
- Sprinkle cinnamon sugar: In a small bowl, mix together granulated sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cake mix layer for that classic snickerdoodle sweetness.
- Pour melted butter: Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top of the cake mix and cinnamon sugar. This butter will soak into the cake mix during baking, creating a crispy, snickerdoodle-like crust.
- Bake the cake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. Bake until the top is golden brown, crispy around the edges, and the apple mixture is bubbly and set.
- Cool and serve: Allow the cake to cool for a few minutes before serving. It’s delightful on its own or topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Notes
- Do not stir the layers after adding the cake mix; this helps create the distinct crumbly topping.
- Optional nuts add a pleasant crunch, but can be omitted for nut-free desserts.
- Serve warm for the best texture and flavor experience.
- You can substitute vanilla cake mix if yellow cake mix is unavailable.
- Adding vanilla extract and cinnamon to the apples enhances the snickerdoodle flavor.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently before serving.
