Crockpot Caramel Apple Dump Cake

This Crockpot Caramel Apple Dump Cake is the ultimate fuss-free dessert, perfect for when you crave warm, spiced apples and gooey caramel without the fuss of a traditional pie. Simply dump, cook, and enjoy this incredibly easy and satisfying treat!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 3 30

Resting Time 15

Total Time 3 45

Servings: 6 people

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

Apple Filling

6-8 medium apples peeled, cored, and sliced or chopped (a mix of tart like Granny Smith and sweet like Honeycrisp works beautifully)
0.5 cup granulated sugar
0.25 cup packed light brown sugar
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg
0.25 teaspoon ground allspice optional, but adds a lovely depth
1 tablespoon lemon juice to prevent browning and add a touch of brightness

Cake Topping

1 box yellow or spice cake mix 15.25 ounces
0.5 cup unsalted butter melted
0.5 cup chopped pecans or walnuts optional, for added crunch

Caramel Drizzle

0.5 cup caramel sauce store-bought or homemade, plus more for serving

Equipment

6-quart (or larger) Slow Cooker
Large Bowl
Medium Bowl
Fork

Method

Prepare the Apple Filling: In a large bowl, combine the peeled and sliced or chopped apples with granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice (if using), and lemon juice. Toss everything together until the apple slices are evenly coated. This creates the base of our delicious dump cake, ensuring every bite is infused with warm apple-cinnamon flavor.
6-8 medium apples, 0.5 cup granulated sugar, 0.25 cup packed light brown sugar, 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg, 0.25 teaspoon ground allspice, 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Layer the Apples in the Crockpot: Spoon the apple mixture evenly into the bottom of a 6-quart or larger slow cooker. Spread it out to create an even layer.
Prepare the Cake Topping: In a separate medium bowl, pour the dry cake mix. Pour the melted butter over the cake mix and stir with a fork until the mixture is crumbly and resembles coarse sand. If you are using nuts, stir them in now. This is the "dump" part of the dump cake, where you’re creating the delightful cake layer.
1 box yellow or spice cake mix, 0.5 cup unsalted butter, 0.5 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
Create the Cake Layer: Evenly sprinkle the crumbly cake mixture over the top of the apple filling in the slow cooker. Do not stir it into the apples; you want to create a distinct cake layer.
Add the Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle about half of the caramel sauce evenly over the cake mix. Don't worry if it doesn't cover completely; some of it will melt down during cooking.
0.5 cup caramel sauce
Cook on Low: Cover the slow cooker and cook on the LOW setting for 3 to 4 hours, or until the apples are tender and the cake topping is golden brown and cooked through. Cooking time can vary depending on your slow cooker. You can check the cake's doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
Rest and Serve: Once cooked, turn off the slow cooker and let the dump cake rest, covered, for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the cake to set slightly. Serve warm, drizzled with the remaining caramel sauce and your favorite toppings.

Notes

Leftover Crockpot Caramel Apple Dump Cake will stay fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or toaster oven.