If you’ve ever wished you could capture the warmth of old-fashioned snickerdoodle cookies and the homey comfort of a bubbling apple crisp in just one pan, you’re going to fall head over heels for Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake. With its luscious layers of spiced apple pie filling, buttery cake, and a signature cinnamon-sugar crunch on top, this crowd-pleaser is truly the easiest ticket to dessert bliss. Whether you’re baking for a festive gathering or casually treating yourself, Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake delivers nostalgic flavor with minimal fuss, making it one of my absolute go-to treats when I want something cozy, delicious, and almost impossible to mess up.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All you need are a handful of pantry staples and a few minutes of prep—which is exactly why Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake is a baker’s dream. Every ingredient is carefully chosen to boost that classic snickerdoodle sweetness, warm cinnamon savor, and irresistible gooey texture.
- 2 (21 oz) cans apple pie filling: Store-bought makes this easy, but you can use homemade for even more flavor.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: This spice is essential for that cozy aroma and taste that defines snickerdoodle desserts.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle warmth that complements the apples perfectly.
- 1 (15.25 oz) box yellow cake mix: The magic ingredient that turns this into a “dump cake” with an ultra-tender crumb.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick), cut into thin slices: Slicing the butter helps it melt evenly, turning the cake mix into beautiful, golden pockets of richness.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Just the right amount for sprinkling on top for a crunchy, sweet finish.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for topping): Partners with the sugar to recreate that signature snickerdoodle topping.
How to Make Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lightly greasing your 9×13-inch baking dish. This helps ensure that every bubbly, caramelized portion of Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake scoops out beautifully, with minimal sticking.
Step 2: Layer the Apple Pie Filling and Spices
Open the cans of apple pie filling and spread them evenly across the bottom of your prepared dish. Sprinkle the ground cinnamon and nutmeg over the top, then stir gently to combine for an even punch of cozy spice in every bite.
Step 3: Sprinkle on the Cake Mix
Now, take the yellow cake mix and sprinkle it directly over the apple mixture—no need to mix it! This “dump and go” step is what gives Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake its signature texture and effortless appeal.
Step 4: Top with Butter Slices
Arrange your thin slices of butter all over the cake mix so they melt evenly across the surface as the cake bakes. The butter is what transforms the dry mix into that golden, irresistible crust we all love.
Step 5: Add the Cinnamon-Sugar Topping
In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar with the reserved cinnamon, then sprinkle this mixture liberally over the entire pan. This is where the snickerdoodle magic really happens—baking into a sweet, crackly top layer that sets this dessert apart.
Step 6: Bake and Enjoy the Aroma
Place your dish in the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top is deeply golden and you see bubbling edges. Let your Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake cool slightly before serving, because nothing beats a warm, spoonable serving fresh out of the oven.
How to Serve Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake
Garnishes
This dessert truly shines with a few easy finishing touches. Try a scoop of vanilla ice cream for contrast, a dollop of fresh whipped cream, or a sprinkle of toasted pecans or walnuts for crunch—each one gives a new twist to every serving of Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake.
Side Dishes
Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake is a superstar solo, but if you’re serving a crowd or holiday meal, think about pairing it with a pitcher of mulled cider or a steaming cup of coffee. Even a simple fruit salad can round out your dessert table and keep things feeling fresh and festive.
Creative Ways to Present
For a playful spin, try baking the Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake in individual ramekins for personal portions. Top each one with a cinnamon stick, or drizzle with caramel sauce right before serving. If you’re packing for a potluck, bake it in a foil pan for easy transport and share the cozy flavors everywhere you go!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, simply cover your Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake tightly and pop it in the fridge. It will keep well for up to 3 days, and honestly, some claim the flavors are even better the next day.
Freezing
Yes, you can absolutely freeze Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake! Let it cool completely, then wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or store in an airtight container. It will keep for about 2 months in the freezer for easy, make-ahead desserts.
Reheating
To bring back that gooey magic, reheat your cake gently in the oven at 325°F until warmed through. For single servings, a quick zap in the microwave also works—just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t dry out.
FAQs
Can I make Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake with homemade apple pie filling?
Absolutely! Homemade apple pie filling works beautifully here, and lets you play with different apple varieties or sweetness levels. Just use about 4 cups of filling in place of the canned version.
Is it possible to use a different kind of cake mix?
You sure can! While yellow cake mix gives the classic flavor, try spiced cake mix or even white cake mix if you want to play with the flavor profile—each adds its own unique charm.
Can I prepare this dessert in advance for a party?
Definitely. You can assemble Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake up to 24 hours ahead and store it covered in the fridge. Just remember to add the butter and cinnamon-sugar topping right before baking for the best results.
What makes this different from a traditional dump cake?
Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake stands out thanks to its snickerdoodle-inspired cinnamon-sugar topping, and the warm blend of spices mixed with classic apple filling. The result is a hybrid of cookie, cake, and cobbler, all in one dish!
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes! This recipe contains no meat or animal-derived gelatin, and is vegetarian-friendly as written. Just check your cake mix and pie filling labels to be sure.
Final Thoughts
If you’re in the mood for an easy, soul-satisfying dessert that always draws rave reviews, you really can’t go wrong with Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake. It’s sweet comfort food at its best, perfect for gathering everyone around the table. Give it a try—I hope it becomes a cherished favorite in your kitchen too!
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Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of fall with this delightful Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake. Easy to make and bursting with cinnamon-spiced apple goodness, this dessert is a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 (21 oz) cans apple pie filling
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 (15.25 oz) box yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick), cut into thin slices
For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the Apple Layer: Spread the apple pie filling in the dish, sprinkle with cinnamon and nutmeg, and gently stir.
- Add the Cake Mix: Sprinkle the dry cake mix over the apples without stirring.
- Layer with Butter: Arrange butter slices over the cake mix.
- Add the Topping: Combine sugar and cinnamon, sprinkle over the cake.
- Bake: Bake for 45–50 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Let cool slightly and serve warm, alone or with ice cream.
Notes
- You can use homemade apple pie filling if preferred.
- For added texture, sprinkle chopped nuts over the cake mix before baking.
- Best served warm; store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/12 of recipe
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 26 g
- Sodium: 280 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
