When the leaves start to change and that crisp autumn air rolls in, there’s one thing I crave most: warm desserts that make the house smell like a hug. This crockpot caramel apple dump cake is exactly that. It’s what I make when I want something ridiculously easy, deeply comforting, and irresistibly delicious. You don’t need baking skills, just a slow cooker and a craving for something sweet, gooey, and golden.
In this article, you’ll get everything you need to make your own crockpot caramel apple cake: why it works so well, what goes in it, how to make it, and simple variations to make it your own. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Caramel Apple Cake
There’s something truly special about a dessert that takes five minutes to prep but tastes like it took hours. That’s the magic of a crockpot caramel apple dump cake. It’s the kind of recipe you throw together in a pinch, but serve with pride, especially when everyone asks for seconds.
First off, this recipe combines the comforting flavors of spiced apples with the richness of buttery caramel. The slow cooker gently melds those flavors together, creating a warm, gooey base with a golden, buttery topping that’s borderline addictive. It’s like Apple Crumb Cake and cobbler had a baby, with a soft caramel hug.
But what makes this caramel apple dump cake stand out is how simple it is. You don’t need to peel a mountain of apples or mix a fancy batter. Just layer the ingredients in the crockpot, set it, and forget it. While it simmers, your home fills with the scent of cinnamon, apples, and buttery cake; basically autumn in a pot.
And because it’s made in the slow cooker, it’s perfect for gatherings. You can keep it warm during a party, serve it straight from the crock, and even go back for thirds. Want to turn it into a showstopper? Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzle extra caramel on top.
This is the kind of no-stress dessert you’ll want to keep in your back pocket all season long. It’s cozy, crowd-pleasing, and downright delicious. If you’re a fan of Apple Crisp or fall baking in general, this one’s about to become your new favorite.
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Crockpot Caramel Apple Dump Cake
This Crockpot Caramel Apple Dump Cake is an easy, cozy fall dessert made with layers of apple pie filling, buttery caramel, and boxed cake mix. Just set it and forget it, your house will smell amazing.
- Total Time: 3 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Ingredients
2 (21 oz) cans apple pie filling
1/2 cup caramel sauce (plus extra for topping)
1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
1 cup melted butter
1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional)
1/2 tsp nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
1. Spray the inside of your crockpot with nonstick spray or line with parchment.
2. Spread apple pie filling evenly across the bottom of the crockpot.
3. Drizzle caramel sauce evenly over the apples.
4. Sprinkle dry cake mix evenly over the top; do not stir.
5. Drizzle melted butter over the cake mix, covering as much as possible.
6. Cover and cook on LOW for 2.5 to 3 hours until the top is set and golden.
7. Let rest 15–20 minutes before serving. Top with ice cream and extra caramel if desired.
Notes
You can use fresh apples: peel and slice 5–6 apples and toss with cinnamon and brown sugar.
Switch it up with spice cake mix or add chopped pecans or oats for texture.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 38g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Ingredients for Crockpot Caramel Apple Dump Cake
One of the best parts about this caramel apple cake is how effortless the ingredient list is. You’re looking at fewer than 10 ingredients, most of which you might already have in your pantry. No complicated measurements, no fancy equipment; just simple, comforting flavors layered into something that tastes like a warm autumn hug.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this crockpot caramel apple dump cake:
- Canned Apple Pie Filling
This is the foundation of the recipe. It brings that soft, cinnamon-spiced apple flavor without the prep. If you’re feeling a little extra, you can use homemade apple filling, but store-bought works beautifully. - Caramel Sauce
This is where the magic happens. Pour it over the apple filling for that rich, buttery flavor that melts into the cake. A thick, buttery caramel (like dulce de leche) gives the best texture and taste. - Boxed Yellow Cake Mix
This is the “dump” part. No mixing needed. Just sprinkle it right over the top. The dry mix absorbs the juices and creates a soft, cake-like top layer with bits of golden crumble. - Butter (Melted)
Butter binds the dry mix into a tender crust. Don’t skimp, this is what makes the top golden and crispy. Use unsalted if your caramel is already salty. - Cinnamon and Nutmeg
Optional, but highly recommended. Just a dash of each brings out those warm fall flavors and gives the cake a homemade touch. - Optional Toppings
Vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or even crushed pecans can take this dessert to the next level. You can also drizzle on extra caramel just before serving.
Here’s a quick look in table form for easy prep:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Canned Apple Pie Filling | 2 (21 oz) cans |
| Caramel Sauce | 1/2 cup (plus more for topping) |
| Yellow Cake Mix | 1 box (15.25 oz) |
| Butter, melted | 1 cup (2 sticks) |
| Cinnamon & Nutmeg (optional) | 1/2 tsp each |
Need more fall inspiration? The Pumpkin Pie Crisp is another fall dessert with a similar balance of warm spices and fruit-forward richness.
How to Make Crockpot Caramel Apple Dump Cake
If you’ve got five minutes and a slow cooker, you’ve got everything you need to make this caramel apple dump cake. That’s the beauty of it. No mixing bowls. No electric mixers. Just a few layers, a drizzle of butter, and time to let the crockpot work its cozy magic.
- Step 1: Prep Your Crockpot
Spray the inside of your slow cooker with nonstick spray or use a crockpot liner. Trust me; it makes cleanup a breeze, especially when the caramel starts bubbling around the edges. - Step 2: Add the Apple Filling
Dump both cans of apple pie filling into the bottom of the crockpot. Use a spoon to spread it out evenly. If you like a stronger spice flavor, you can stir in a little cinnamon or nutmeg at this stage. - Step 3: Drizzle the Caramel
Pour the caramel sauce right over the apple filling. Don’t mix it in, just let it sit and soak down as it cooks. It adds depth, richness, and that beautiful, buttery finish to every bite. - Step 4: Sprinkle the Cake Mix
Open your boxed cake mix and sprinkle it evenly over the apple-caramel base. No need to stir. Just spread it out so it covers the surface. - Step 5: Pour the Melted Butter
Slowly drizzle the melted butter over the dry cake mix. Try to cover as much of the top as possible to help it brown evenly. The butter seeps down into the mix and helps form that soft, golden crust on top. - Step 6: Cook on LOW for 2.5 to 3 Hours
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat. After about 2.5 hours, you’ll notice the edges starting to bubble and the top turning golden. You’ll know it’s done when the top is firm and the middle is no longer wet. Don’t overcook or it’ll dry out! - Step 7: Let It Rest Before Serving
Once it’s done, turn off the heat and let it rest for about 15–20 minutes. This helps it set up just a bit, so it’s easier to scoop. - Serving Tip:
Scoop it into bowls and top with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. A drizzle of warm caramel or even a sprinkle of chopped nuts makes it feel extra special.
And if you love layered desserts like this, be sure to check out the Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars; another low-effort, high-flavor fall favorite.
Tips and Variations for the Best Caramel Apple Dump Cake
Once you’ve made this crockpot caramel apple dump cake once, you’ll want to make it again, with your own twist. That’s the fun of this dessert. It’s not only simple, but super forgiving. Whether you’re looking to switch up the flavor, tweak the texture, or make it a little more “from scratch,” these tips and variations have you covered.
- Don’t Overmix or Stir
It’s tempting to stir everything together, but the dump-and-layer method is what gives this cake its unique texture. Letting the caramel melt into the apples and the butter soak into the cake mix creates those dreamy layers. - Use Real Apples
Want it to taste a little more rustic? Swap the canned filling for 5–6 peeled, thinly sliced apples. Toss them with a few tablespoons of brown sugar, cinnamon, and a touch of cornstarch. It takes more prep, but gives you a chunkier, homemade vibe. - Add Texture with Nuts or Oats
For a little crunch, sprinkle chopped pecans, walnuts, or even a handful of oats over the cake mix before adding butter. It gives the top a bit of a crisp, almost like a hybrid between a crisp and a cobbler. - Change the Cake Flavor
Not a fan of yellow cake mix? Spice cake mix, vanilla, or butter pecan are all amazing alternatives. Spice cake brings out the cinnamon in the apple filling and pairs beautifully with caramel. - Make It a Salted Caramel Twist
Use salted caramel sauce and add a pinch of sea salt to the top after cooking. That sweet-salty contrast makes each bite more addictive. - Prep Ahead for Parties
This is a great make-ahead dessert for gatherings. You can prep everything in the crockpot insert, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 12 hours. When you’re ready, pop it in the base and cook as usual.
Looking for a more fruit-forward bake with a similar texture? Try Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins for a grab-and-go twist on these cozy fall flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh apples instead of canned apple pie filling?
Absolutely. If you want to use fresh apples, peel and slice about 5–6 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work great). Toss them with 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon before layering them into the crockpot. It’ll taste more homemade but still have that cozy, dump-cake ease.
Why is my dump cake still powdery on top?
This usually happens if the melted butter didn’t fully cover the cake mix. To fix this, use a spoon to gently press down the dry spots midway through cooking; or next time, drizzle the butter more evenly. If you like a crispier crust, you can remove the lid for the last 20–30 minutes of cooking to let steam escape.
Can I make this in the oven instead of a crockpot?
Yes! If you’re short on time or prefer a crispier topping, bake it in a 9×13-inch baking dish at 350°F for about 40–45 minutes, until golden and bubbly. The layers will be the same, and you can serve it warm right from the pan.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store any leftover caramel apple dump cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 30–45 seconds. It’s also great cold, but if you rewarm it and top it with ice cream, it basically becomes dessert royalty.
Final Note: Warm, Simple, and So Worth It
If you’re looking for a no-fuss dessert that delivers big on flavor and fall vibes, this crockpot caramel apple dump cake is the one. It’s cozy, quick to assemble, and ridiculously satisfying. Whether you’re planning a family dinner, a weekend treat, or a holiday gathering, this dessert hits every comforting note without stealing your time or sanity.
Like many of my go-to recipes, this one started with a craving and ended with my husband scraping the crockpot clean. That’s always the sign of a keeper in our house.
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