Dessert

Apple Dump Cake from Scratch Recipe

Bynova cole October 22, 2025October 22, 2025

Introduction

This homemade Apple Dump Cake is a simple and comforting dessert made from scratch, featuring fresh apples and a tender, buttery topping. Forget boxed mixes—this recipe highlights natural flavors and easy preparation for a delightful treat.

Two white shallow bowls each hold a serving of apple crisp topped with a scoop of melting vanilla ice cream sprinkled with ground cinnamon. The apple crisp layer is crumbly and golden brown with visible chunks of cooked apples peeking through. The ice cream adds a smooth contrast with its soft white texture slightly melting down the crumbly top. In the background, there are two whole apples and a cinnamon stick placed on a white marbled surface. A glass bottle of milk stands near the bowls, and two shiny metal spoons rest on the same surface in the foreground. The light is soft and natural, highlighting the warm colors of the dessert. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

5 cups apples, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
1 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp nutmeg
2 tbsp sugar
2 tsp vanilla
2 1/3 cups flour
1 1/4 cups sugar
1 tbsp baking powder
3/4 tsp salt
3/4 to 1 cup butter, melted

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the cinnamon, nutmeg, 2 tablespoons sugar, and vanilla with the peeled and chopped apples. Mix well to evenly coat the fruit.
Step 2: Spread the apple mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 3: Using the same bowl, stir together the flour, 1 1/4 cups sugar, baking powder, and salt to make the topping.
Step 4: Pour the dry topping mixture over the apples and spread it out evenly.
Step 5: Drizzle the melted butter over the entire surface. Tilt the pan gently if needed to help the butter cover as much of the topping as possible.
Step 6: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 to 50 minutes, until the cake is bubbly and lightly browned on top.
Step 7: Serve warm or cold. This cake pairs wonderfully with milk, whipped cream, or ice cream.

Tips & Variations

Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for a balanced flavor.
Adjust the amount of butter for a richer or lighter crust—less butter makes it more crumbly.
Add chopped nuts or raisins to the apple mixture for extra texture and taste.
For a gluten-free version, substitute the flour with a gluten-free baking blend.

Storage

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in a 300°F (150°C) oven until heated through. The cake also freezes well for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.