Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake

When fall arrives, nothing feels cozier than a warm, spiced dessert fresh from the oven. This Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake is the perfect example — an easy, fuss-free recipe that combines the classic flavors of apple pie and snickerdoodle cookies into one irresistible dessert. With layers of tender apple pie filling, cinnamon-spiced cake, and buttery pecan topping, this dump cake is as comforting as it is delicious.

I first made this dump cake on a chilly October evening when I wanted something homemade but didn’t have the energy for an elaborate dessert. To my surprise, the result was incredible — the kitchen smelled like a mix of apple cider and cinnamon cookies, and the first bite was pure comfort. Ever since then, this recipe has become a staple for potlucks, family dinners, and holiday gatherings. It’s the kind of dessert that looks and tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen, but it only takes minutes to prepare.

Why You’ll Love Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake

• Super easy – Just dump, layer, and bake! No mixing bowls required.
• Warm fall flavors – Apples, cinnamon, nutmeg, and buttery cake mix make every bite cozy.
• Crowd-pleasing – Great for potlucks, family dinners, and holiday celebrations.
• Minimal ingredients – Just a handful of pantry staples and canned pie filling.
• Customizable – Add nuts, drizzle with caramel, or serve with whipped cream.
• Make-ahead friendly – Bake ahead and reheat before serving.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 box snickerdoodle cake mix – Provides the perfect spiced cake flavor without extra effort.
• 2 cans (21 oz each) apple pie filling – The sweet, spiced base of the dessert.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted – Adds richness and ensures the topping bakes up golden.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Enhances the warm spice flavor.
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg – Adds depth and warmth.
• ¼ cup chopped pecans (optional) – For crunch and nuttiness.
• Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream (optional) – For topping when serving.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Layers

1. Preheat oven – Heat to 350°F (175°C). Grease or butter a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. Spread apples – Evenly distribute apple pie filling across the bottom of the dish.
3. Add cake mix – Sprinkle the snickerdoodle cake mix evenly over the apples. Do not stir.

Adding Flavor and Texture

4. Spice it up – In a small bowl, combine cinnamon and nutmeg. Sprinkle evenly over the cake mix layer.
5. Drizzle butter – Pour melted butter slowly and evenly over the cake mix, making sure to cover as much as possible.
6. Add pecans – If using, sprinkle chopped pecans on top.

Baking the Cake

7. Bake – Place in oven and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
8. Cool slightly – Allow cake to rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Serving

9. Serve warm – Spoon into bowls and top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if desired.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving ideas:

• Top with a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
• Pair with hot cider or coffee for a cozy treat.
• Serve in small mason jars for a fun party presentation.

Storage:

• Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 20–30 seconds.
• Freeze leftovers in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Helpful Notes

• Even butter coverage – Drizzle slowly and evenly so the cake bakes uniformly.
• Nut options – Pecans work beautifully, but walnuts or almonds also add crunch.
• Toasting nuts – Toast pecans beforehand to intensify their flavor.
• Extra spice – Add a pinch of cloves or allspice for a stronger spice kick.
• Caramel swirl – Drizzle caramel over the apples before baking for a gooey surprise.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use fresh apples instead of pie filling?
   Yes! Use 6–7 cups of peeled, sliced apples mixed with ½ cup sugar, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
2. Do I have to use snickerdoodle cake mix?
   No, yellow or spice cake mix also works, but snickerdoodle adds the best flavor.
3. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
   Yes, layer ingredients the same way and cook on LOW for 3–4 hours.
4. How do I know when it’s done?
   The top should be golden and crisp, and the edges should be bubbling.
5. Can I make this gluten-free?
   Yes, use a gluten-free cake mix and check that your pie filling is gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake is one of the easiest and most comforting desserts you can make. With just a few pantry ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a dessert that tastes like it came from a bakery. The tender apples, spiced cake topping, and buttery pecan crunch all come together to create a dish that’s perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or weeknight indulgence.

I’ve tested this recipe countless times, and it’s never failed to please a crowd. The best part is that it’s so simple — no complicated steps, no fancy equipment, just layer, bake, and enjoy. Once you try it, this dump cake will likely earn a permanent place in your fall and holiday recipe rotation.