Indulging in a delicious dessert is one of life's simple pleasures, and when it comes to quick and easy treats, the apple caramel dump cake stands out as a true gem. This delightful recipe not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also requires minimal effort and a handful of inexpensive ingredients. With just 5 minutes of prep time, you can have a mouth - watering dessert ready to be enjoyed by family and friends.
The beauty of the apple caramel dump cake lies in its simplicity. You don't need to be a professional baker to whip this up. All you need are a few basic items that you might already have in your pantry or can easily pick up at the grocery store. Let's start by looking at the ingredients.
For the apples, you can use any variety you like. Granny Smith apples are a popular choice as they have a tart flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the caramel. You'll need about 3 - 4 medium - sized apples. Peel, core, and slice them into thin wedges. The thin slices ensure that the apples cook evenly and become tender in the oven.
Next up is the caramel. You can use store - bought caramel sauce, which is convenient and readily available. A 12 - ounce jar of caramel sauce will be sufficient to give your dump cake that rich, gooey flavor. The caramel adds a decadent touch and makes every bite a treat.
Another key ingredient is the yellow cake mix. This forms the base of the dump cake and gives it a light and fluffy texture. You don't have to worry about making the cake from scratch; just use a boxed yellow cake mix. It's a time - saver and still results in a delicious dessert.
To add a bit of crunch and flavor, you'll need some chopped nuts. Walnuts or pecans work great. About 1/2 cup of chopped nuts will do the trick. The nuts add a nice contrast to the soft apples and the gooey caramel.
Now, let's move on to the preparation. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 - inch baking dish. Start by arranging the sliced apples evenly in the bottom of the greased dish. Pour the caramel sauce over the apples, making sure to cover them well. The caramel will seep down between the apple slices and create a delicious sauce as it bakes.
Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the caramel and apples. You don't need to mix it with anything; just let it sit on top. Then, pour about 1/2 cup of melted butter over the cake mix. The butter will help the cake mix to bake and form a nice crust on top.
Finally, sprinkle the chopped nuts over the top of the cake mix. The nuts will add a nice crunch and a nutty flavor to the dessert. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 - 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the apples are tender when pierced with a fork.
Once the apple caramel dump cake is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. This allows the caramel to set a bit and makes it easier to cut. You can serve the dump cake warm or at room temperature. It's delicious on its own, but you can also top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
This apple caramel dump cake is not only a hit at family gatherings but also a great option for potlucks or when you want to surprise someone with a homemade dessert. It's a versatile recipe that can be adjusted according to your taste. If you prefer a sweeter dessert, you can add a bit more caramel sauce or sprinkle some brown sugar over the apples before adding the cake mix.
In conclusion, the apple caramel dump cake is a must - try recipe for anyone who loves easy and delicious desserts. With its simple ingredients, short prep time, and amazing taste, it's sure to become a staple in your dessert repertoire. So, head to the kitchen, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the process of creating this wonderful apple caramel dump cake.