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This Crock Pot Apple Dump Cake is my go to when I need something sweet and satisfying without a lot of effort. It only takes three ingredients and the slow cooker does all the work while your house fills with the warm scent of cinnamon and apples. It is the kind of dessert that tastes like fall and feels like a hug in a bowl.
I first made this dump cake for a fall potluck and now it is a family tradition during apple season. It is incredibly easy and always disappears fast.
Ingredients
- Apple cinnamon muffin mix: provides spiced flavor and structure choose a quality brand like Martha White or Jiffy
- Apple pie filling: brings sweet soft apple texture and seasonal spice feel free to use sugar free or homemade
- Butter: adds richness and helps bake the topping until golden use real butter not margarine for best taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Crock Pot:
- Lightly spray the inside of a four to six quart slow cooker with non stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier
- Add the Filling:
- Pour two cans of apple pie filling directly into the bottom of the Crock Pot spreading them out evenly so they fully cover the bottom
- Sprinkle the Muffin Mix:
- Evenly sprinkle two packets of apple cinnamon muffin mix on top of the pie filling spreading gently to avoid clumps and ensure even coverage
- Add the Butter:
- Pour melted butter over the muffin mix doing your best to distribute it across the surface do not worry if some dry mix remains you can also slice the butter and dot it over the top if preferred
- Cook Low and Slow:
- Cover with the lid and cook on low for three to five hours until the topping is set and golden and the apple filling is bubbling around the edges check with a toothpick if needed
- Serve Warm:
- Scoop into bowls and serve warm ideally with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream for contrast and extra indulgence
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How to Store Leftovers
Let the cake cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat just microwave individual portions for thirty to sixty seconds or warm in the oven at a low temperature.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you cannot find apple cinnamon muffin mix try using spice cake mix or even apple cider muffin mix for a similar flavor profile. For a less sweet version try using sugar free apple pie filling or making your own with fresh apples and cinnamon.
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Serving Ideas
This dump cake is best served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream but it also pairs nicely with whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. For a festive twist sprinkle chopped pecans or dried cranberries on top before cooking.
A Dump Cake Tradition
Dump cakes have been a popular American dessert since the mid twentieth century known for their simplicity and versatility. The name comes from the method just dump everything in and bake. Using a slow cooker makes this modern version even more convenient especially during busy holidays.
I always keep a box of muffin mix on hand just for this recipe. My kids call it the magic apple cake because it comes together so quickly and always smells amazing.
Recipe FAQs
- → What makes this cake a 'dump' style dessert?
It's called a dump cake because you simply dump the ingredients—pie filling, dry mix, and butter—into the crock pot without needing to mix or prep extensively.
- → Can I use a cake mix instead of muffin mix?
Yes, a spice cake mix works beautifully as a substitute and complements the apple flavor well.
- → How do I know when it's fully cooked?
The cake is done when the top is no longer powdery, and a fork or toothpick inserted comes out with crumbs but no wet batter.
- → Can this be baked in the oven?
Absolutely. Bake it in a greased 9×13-inch dish at 350°F for about 40–50 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- → What are some flavor variations or add-ins?
Try adding chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch, a bit of ground cinnamon for more spice, or dried cranberries for a festive twist.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.