Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake

Warm, buttery, and filled with cinnamon apple goodness, this Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake is the easiest way to enjoy fall flavors in one comforting dessert. With layers of spiced apples, snickerdoodle-inspired sugar topping, and a crisp, golden cake crust, this no-fuss recipe takes just minutes to assemble—no mixing bowls required. Serve it straight from the oven with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate cozy treat.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
So Easy – Dump, sprinkle, and bake. That’s it!
Snickerdoodle-Inspired – Classic cinnamon-sugar flavor in dessert form.
Warm & Comforting – Perfect for fall, holidays, or chilly evenings.
Crowd-Friendly – Great for potlucks, family gatherings, or weeknight desserts.
Customizable – Add nuts, caramel, or vanilla drizzle.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Base:

• 2 (21 oz) cans apple pie filling
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg (optional)

For the Cake Layer:

• 1 box yellow cake mix (or white cake mix)
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Snickerdoodle Topping:

• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

Optional Add-Ins:

• ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
• Drizzle of caramel sauce (after baking)
• Pinch of salt to balance sweetness

Tools You’ll Need
9×13-inch baking dish
Spatula or spoon
Measuring spoons
Oven

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.

Step 2: Add the Apple Filling
Spread both cans of apple pie filling evenly in the bottom of the baking dish.
Sprinkle with 1 tsp cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg. Stir gently to combine.

Step 3: Sprinkle the Cake Mix
Evenly sprinkle the dry cake mix over the apple filling—do not stir.
Use a spoon or your hands to level the mix across the surface.

Step 4: Add Butter and Vanilla
Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the cake mix layer.
Add the vanilla extract directly into the butter as you pour, or mix them together beforehand.

Step 5: Add the Snickerdoodle Topping
Mix 2 tbsp sugar and 1 tsp cinnamon in a small bowl.
Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the top of the cake.

Step 6: Bake
Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly and the edges are crisp.
Let it rest for 10–15 minutes before serving so it can set slightly.

Step 7: Serve Warm
Scoop into bowls and top with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel.

Tips for the Best Dump Cake
Don’t Stir – Keeping the layers separate is key to the cobbler-style texture.
Use Quality Filling – Choose a good apple pie filling or make your own.
Add Nuts for Crunch – Pecans or walnuts make a great crunchy contrast.
Watch the Butter – Drizzle evenly to prevent dry cake spots.
Make It Your Own – Use spice cake mix for more warmth, or add a splash of apple cider.

Serving Suggestions
With Vanilla Ice Cream – Melts into the warm cake perfectly.
With Whipped Cream – Light and fluffy contrast.
As a Holiday Dessert – A great option for Thanksgiving or potlucks.
With Hot Cider or Coffee – Perfect cozy pairing.
As Breakfast – Yes, it’s that good!

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate: Cover and store in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing:
Freeze in portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

Reheating:
Microwave: 30–60 seconds for individual servings.
Oven: Reheat at 325°F for 10–15 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use fresh apples instead of canned filling?
Yes—use about 5–6 cups of peeled, sliced apples tossed with ½ cup sugar, 1 tbsp flour, and 1 tsp cinnamon.

2. Can I make it gluten-free?
Absolutely—use a gluten-free yellow cake mix and verify other ingredients are gluten-free.

3. Can I use a different fruit?
Yes! Try pears, peaches, or mixed berries for a fun twist.

4. Can I make it in advance?
Yes—assemble it ahead and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake fresh before serving.

5. Is this like a cobbler?
Yes, it has a similar texture to cobbler with a cake mix shortcut on top.

Final Thoughts
Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake is the perfect no-fuss dessert when you want something warm, sweet, and comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. With its spiced apple filling, soft cake topping, and cinnamon-sugar crust, it’s everything you love about fall baking made unbelievably easy.

Whip it up tonight and enjoy a slice of cozy, cinnamon-laced happiness!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Cuisine: American / Dessert

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, serves 12):
Calories: 330 | Protein: 2g | Carbohydrates: 42g | Fat: 17g | Sugar: 28g | Sodium: 320mg

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