3-Ingredient Apple Dump Cake

Pro tips

• Slice butter into small pats and distribute evenly across the dry cake mix so it bakes into a cohesive topping.
• Do not stir or mix the layers; the magic happens when butter and cake mix meld during baking.
• For smoker baking, maintain 350°F and monitor the topping—it may bake faster or slower depending on smoke and airflow.
• Let cool 10–15 minutes before serving so the cake sets and ice cream doesn't melt immediately.

Substitutions

• Cinnamon coffee cake mix → vanilla or yellow cake mix (loses cinnamon flavor; add 1–2 tsp cinnamon if preferred)
• Apple pie filling → cherry, peach, or blueberry pie filling (keeps the same method)
• Butter → coconut oil or margarine in equal amount (affects flavor slightly)

Storage & make-ahead

Store covered at room temperature up to 2 days, or refrigerate up to 5 days. Reheat gently in a 300°F oven for 10–15 minutes.

Equipment

9x13 baking dish (or equivalent) · Smoker (optional alternative to oven)

Can you make this dump cake on a smoker?

Yes. This recipe works in both a traditional oven and on a smoker, giving you flexible baking options for outdoor entertaining.

Do you need to mix the cake mix?

No. Dump the dry cake mix directly over the apple filling and dot with butter slices; it bakes into a cake without pre-mixing.

What temperature and time for baking?

Bake at 350°F for approximately 45–50 minutes until the topping is golden and set (exact time varies by oven or smoker).

Can you substitute the cinnamon coffee cake mix?

Yes. Use vanilla or yellow cake mix as a base, though you'll lose the cinnamon flavor; add 1–2 tsp cinnamon to the dry mix if desired.

Is this dump cake best served warm or cold?

Serve warm with vanilla ice cream for the best texture and flavor contrast.