Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake

Warm, gooey, and bursting with cinnamon spice, this Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake is the ultimate fuss-free dessert! With sweet spiced apples, a buttery cake topping, and a snickerdoodle cookie twist, it’s as comforting as it is easy. You just “dump” the ingredients into the baking dish—no mixing bowls, no mixers, and no hassle. Serve it hot with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a cozy treat everyone will love.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ridiculously Easy – Dump, layer, bake. That’s it!
Cinnamon Sugar Bliss – Inspired by your favorite snickerdoodle cookie.
Comfort Food Classic – Perfect for fall, holidays, or any time you want something warm and sweet.
Crowd-Pleaser – Great for potlucks, parties, or family dinners.
Customizable – Add nuts, caramel, or spice it up how you like!

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
• 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Snickerdoodle Topping:

• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• Pinch of salt

Optional Add-Ins:

• ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
• Caramel drizzle
• A sprinkle of oats for texture

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

Step-by-Step Instructions

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

Step 2: Layer the Apple Filling
Pour the canned apple pie filling into the dish.
Spread evenly and sprinkle with 1 tsp cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg if using.
Stir gently to distribute the spices.

Step 3: Add the Cake Mix
Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the apple layer.
Do not stir. You want the layers to stay distinct.

Step 4: Pour the Butter & Vanilla
Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the cake mix.
Add the vanilla extract directly into the butter or drizzle it separately.

Step 5: Add the Snickerdoodle Topping
Mix the 2 tbsp sugar with 1 tsp cinnamon and a pinch of salt.
Sprinkle over the top of the cake for that classic snickerdoodle flavor.

Step 6: Bake
Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling at the edges.
Let it cool for 10–15 minutes before serving.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy
Scoop into bowls and serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Tips for the Best Dump Cake
Don’t Stir the Layers – Keeping them separate gives the best texture.
Use Real Butter – For rich flavor and golden color.
Add Nuts for Crunch – Pecans or walnuts complement the apples perfectly.
Customize the Spices – Add cardamom or cloves for extra fall flavor.
Let It Rest – Cooling slightly helps the topping firm up a bit.

Serving Suggestions
With Vanilla Ice Cream – A classic and creamy pairing.
With Maple Whipped Cream – Adds a sweet fall twist.
As a Brunch Dessert – Pairs well with coffee or chai tea.
With a Caramel Drizzle – Over-the-top and totally worth it.
Topped with Granola – For a crunchy morning-after breakfast version.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezing:
Freeze in portions once cooled. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

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

2. Can I make this gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free cake mix and double-check your other ingredients for GF certification.

3. Can I make it ahead?
Yes! Assemble and refrigerate unbaked for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.

4. Is this like a cobbler?
Similar, but the cake mix gives it more of a cookie-cake topping rather than biscuit-style.

5. What other fruits work in this recipe?
Try pears, peaches, or berries with the same method for seasonal variations.

Final Thoughts
Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake is everything you love about fall desserts—warm apples, buttery cake, and sweet cinnamon sugar—all in one pan and with minimal effort. Whether it’s for a holiday dinner, a last-minute gathering, or just because you’re craving something sweet, this recipe delivers comfort and flavor in every bite.

Give it a try and enjoy the sweet simplicity of a truly satisfying dessert!

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

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, serves 12):
Calories: 320 | Protein: 2g | Carbohydrates: 46g | Fat: 15g | Sugar: 29g | Sodium: 310mg

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