Irresistibly Easy Slow Cooker Apple Pie Dump Cake Delight

Name: Irresistibly Easy Slow Cooker Apple Pie Dump Cake Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 240 min
Total time: 250 min
Ingredients: 1 can Apple Pie Filling (or homemade with fresh apples); 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg (optional); 1 box Yellow Cake Mix (or gluten-free cake mix); 1/2 cup Butter (Melted) (or margarine)

Posted on January 30, 2026

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There’s a certain joy that fills the kitchen when the seasons start to change, and the comforting scent of fall wafts through the air. The first time I made this Slow Cooker Apple Pie Dump Cake, it was during one of those crisp September afternoons when the leaves were just beginning to turn. With a busy week ahead, I wanted to create a dessert that would welcome the season without requiring hours of effort. This recipe turned out to be a delightful surprise—a cozy, warmly spiced treat that effortlessly fills the room with nostalgia.

Picture this: tender apples melting beneath a golden cake topping, all crafted in the hands-off magic of your slow cooker. It’s as if autumn itself has been lovingly packed into a bowl and served warm, offering a sweet escape from fast food monotony. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just seeking a way to unwind after a long day, this dump cake delivers big flavor with minimal fuss. Plus, with options for gluten-free substitutions, everyone can enjoy a slice of autumn bliss. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that will make your taste buds sing with the flavors of fall!

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Apple Pie Dump Cake

Cozy flavors of fall fill your home as this easy dessert cooks away in your slow cooker. The combination of sweet apples and warm spices creates a mouthwatering aroma that’s hard to resist.

Effortless Preparation: Just mix and set; no complicated steps here!
Gluten-Free Option: Easily substitute for a gluten-free cake mix.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for gatherings, sure to impress family and friends!
Satisfying Texture: Enjoy the contrast of tender apples beneath a golden cake topping.
Serve it Your Way: Top with ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence.

With its inviting flavors, this recipe is your gateway to a cozy fall dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. For an additional treat, consider trying the delightful taste of Hawaiian Poke Cake.

Slow Cooker Apple Pie Dump Cake Ingredients

• Note: Gather these simple ingredients for a delicious and comforting dessert.

Apple Pie Filling – Provides sweetness and fruit flavor; substitute with fresh apples prepared with sugar and spices for a homemade touch.
Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and depth; use nutmeg for an extra layer of flavor.
Ground Nutmeg – Enhances the fall flavor profile; this is optional and can be omitted.
Yellow Cake Mix – Creates a tender cake layer; opt for a gluten-free cake mix for a gluten-free version.
Butter (Melted) – Adds richness and helps achieve a golden, crispy topping; can substitute with margarine if desired.

How to Make Slow Cooker Apple Pie Dump Cake

Grease the slow cooker with non-stick spray or butter to ensure nothing sticks. This helps achieve that perfect, scoopable texture you’ll love!
Pour the apple pie filling into the bottom of the slow cooker, spreading it evenly. This acts as a delicious bed for the cake mix to rest on.
Sprinkle cinnamon and nutmeg evenly over the apple filling. These warm spices will infuse delightful aromas and flavors during cooking.
Spread the dry yellow cake mix evenly on top of the spiced apple filling. The mixture will combine with the apples as it cooks, creating a luscious texture.
Drizzle melted butter over the cake mix, covering it as evenly as possible. This ensures a golden, crispy topping that will add richness to every bite!
Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 3-4 hours, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Don’t lift the lid during cooking, as it can affect the outcome!
Cool the cake for 10 minutes before serving. Scoop into bowls and top generously with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful finish.

Optional: Serve warm directly from the slow cooker to enhance its comforting appeal.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Slow Cooker Apple Pie Dump Cake Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Slow Cooker Apple Pie Dump Cake! Here are some delightful ways to make this cozy dessert your own.

Fresh Apples: Use fresh, pre-cooked apples for a rustic flavor that highlights seasonal freshness. The natural juices from fresh apples add a beautiful texture.
Spice Cake Mix: Swap yellow cake mix for spice cake mix for an aromatic twist that enhances the fall vibes. It brings an extra layer of warmth that’s simply irresistible!
Low-Sugar Option: Choose low-sugar apple pie filling and reduced-calorie cake mix for a healthier version that still satisfies your sweet tooth. Healthy doesn’t have to mean boring!
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the cake mix before cooking for a pleasant crunch and nutty flavor that complements the apples beautifully.
Coconut Flakes: Stir in unsweetened shredded coconut into the cake mix for a tropical touch that surprises and delights your taste buds. Sweet treats can come with unexpected flavors!
Maple Syrup: Drizzle a bit of maple syrup over the apple layer before adding the cake mix for a touch of richness and depth that recalls cozy autumn mornings.
A Touch of Chocolate: Incorporate chocolate chips into the cake mix for a heavenly sweet surprise—because who can resist the pair of chocolate and apples? It’s a flavor match made in heaven!
Tart Addition: Mix in cranberries or a splash of lemon juice with the apples for a tart punch that balances the sweetness. This twist adds a refreshing zing that’s simply delightful!

How to Store and Freeze Slow Cooker Apple Pie Dump Cake

Room Temperature: Allow the cake to cool completely before storing. It can be kept at room temperature for up to 1 day, covered loosely with foil.
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for the best results.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cake in portions. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, to avoid freezer burn; it can last up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat frozen portions, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the microwave or oven until heated through, ensuring the cake remains moist and delicious.

What to Serve with Crockpot Apple Dump Cake?

Indulge in the comforting embrace of flavors that perfectly complement your sweet creation, setting the stage for a delightful meal.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing, the creamy texture and coolness of vanilla ice cream balances the warm, spiced cake beautifully.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of whipped cream enhances the richness, creating a cloud-like texture that harmonizes with the cake’s warmth.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling rich caramel adds a delightful indulgence, bringing out the sweetness of the apples and offering a decadent twist.
Cranberry Juice: This bright, tart drink cuts through the sweetness, refreshing your palate without overshadowing the cozy flavors of the dump cake.

Imagine serving thick slices of the warm cake alongside a glass of chilled cranberry juice. It’s the perfect blend of sweet and tart that elevates this comfort food delight.

Spiced Chai Latte: Embrace the autumn vibes with a warm, spiced chai. The aromatic spices in the latte will mirror those in your delicious dessert.
Toffee Bits: Sprinkling toffee bits on top of your serving adds a crunchy texture that complements the soft, tender cake, creating an intriguing contrast in each bite.
Chocolate Drizzle: For a chocolate lover’s twist, a drizzle of melted chocolate over each slice brings a rich, delightful flavor that pairs wonderfully with the spiced apple filling.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Create a cozy experience by serving your dump cake with this seasonal treat, as the warm spices bridge the flavors of fall in a comforting way.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing the Slow Cooker Apple Pie Dump Cake ahead of time is a breeze! You can assemble it up to 24 hours in advance, making it a wonderful option for busy weeknights or gatherings. Simply layer the apple pie filling and spices in the slow cooker, then top with the dry yellow cake mix and drizzle melted butter over it. Cover and refrigerate the uncooked components until you’re ready to cook. When you’re set to serve, add an additional 30 minutes of cooking time to ensure that everything heats through properly. This way, you’ll enjoy that comforting, warm dessert just as if you made it fresh that day—delicious and effortless!

Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Apple Pie Dump Cake

Don’t Lift the Lid: Keeping the lid on during cooking is crucial; lifting it causes heat loss, leading to uneven cooking and longer prep times.
Crispier Topping: For a golden, crispy finish, prop the lid open slightly during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow moisture to escape.
Using Fresh Apples: If you opt for fresh apples, be sure to pre-cook them with sugar and spices first, and increase the cooking time by 30-60 minutes.
Measure Ingredients Properly: Ensure accurate measurements of cake mix and apple filling for balanced flavor and texture; too much filling can lead to a soggy bottom.
Alternative Toppings: Experiment with various toppings like caramel sauce or toasted nuts to elevate your Slow Cooker Apple Pie Dump Cake to a new level of deliciousness!

Slow Cooker Apple Pie Dump Cake Recipe FAQs

What kind of apples should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, I’d recommend using sweeter apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp. If you prefer tart flavors, Granny Smith apples work wonderfully too. If you’re using fresh apples instead of canned pie filling, be sure to peel and slice them, then cook them with sugar, cinnamon, and a bit of lemon juice on the stove for about 10 minutes to enhance their sweetness and soften them before placing in the slow cooker.

How should I store the leftovers of this dump cake?
You’ll want to store your Slow Cooker Apple Pie Dump Cake in an airtight container in the fridge, where it can last up to 3 days. It’s best to let it cool completely before transferring it to the fridge to avoid condensation forming inside the container, which can lead to sogginess.

Can I freeze the Slow Cooker Apple Pie Dump Cake?
Absolutely, you can! To freeze, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. This makes it easier to reheat, and it can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, just thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the microwave or oven to get that warm, comforting texture back.

What if my dump cake doesn’t turn out crispy on top?
Very! If the topping remains soft, it might be due to not enough cooking time or moisture from the apples. Try propping the slow cooker lid open slightly for the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow excess moisture to escape and create that coveted crispy topping. Also, ensure you spread the melted butter evenly over the dry cake mix to help it brown beautifully.

Is the dump cake safe for people with gluten allergies?
Definitely! You can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using a gluten-free yellow cake mix. Just check your pie filling too; most brands are gluten-free, but confirm to be sure, especially if you’re using fresh apples with your own spices. This way, everyone can enjoy a slice of this delectable dessert!

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