I absolutely love this Crock Pot Apple Dump Cake recipe because it’s effortless and yields a dessert that tastes like something you might get at a fancy bakery—but without the fuss. If you’re looking for a dessert that can just cook itself while you go about your day, this is it. The best part? The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, and you end up with bubbly, tender apples underneath a tender cake-like topping that’s slightly crispy around the edges.

When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how simple ingredients came together to create something special. You don’t have to be an expert baker to make this, and it works amazingly well for family dinners, potlucks, or whenever you want that warm, comforting dessert without heating up your kitchen. If you’re on the hunt for a cozy, sweet treat, this Crock Pot Apple Dump Cake recipe is going to become your new best friend.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Super Simple Prep: You just dump everything in the crock pot—no mixing bowls or fancy steps required.
  • Comfort Food Classic: The warm apples and cinnamon muffin topping feel like the ultimate cozy dessert.
  • Hands-Off Cooking: Let your slow cooker do the work while you enjoy time with family or friends.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a holiday gathering, this recipe fits perfectly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Crock Pot Apple Dump Cake recipe calls for just a handful of ingredients that you might already have on hand. Each one plays a big role in creating that melt-in-your-mouth, comforting dessert flavor we all crave.

  • Apple pie filling: I usually go for canned apple pie filling because it’s sweet, soft, and perfectly spiced; sugar-free options work great if you want to cut back on sugar.
  • Apple cinnamon muffin mix: This is the secret to the beautiful, cakey topping that pairs perfectly with the apples; I find Martha White brand works especially well, but feel free to use your favorite.
  • Salted butter: Melted butter over the muffin mix adds richness and helps the topping crisp up—cutting it into slices and distributing evenly also works if you prefer.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I love tweaking this Crock Pot Apple Dump Cake recipe depending on the season or what’s in my pantry. It’s super forgiving, so you can really make it your own and experiment with flavors that suit your family’s taste.

  • Add nuts or oats: I once sprinkled chopped pecans on top before adding the butter, which gave the cake a lovely crunch my family went crazy for.
  • Try different muffin mixes: Blueberry muffin mix or even spice cake mix can bring interesting twists if you want to mix things up.
  • Use fresh apples: If you prefer fresher texture, tossing sliced tart apples with a bit of cinnamon and sugar before dumping in the crock pot works wonderfully.
  • Make it dairy-free: Swap the butter for coconut oil and choose a dairy-free muffin mix to suit dietary needs.

How to Make Crock Pot Apple Dump Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Slow Cooker

Start by lightly spraying your 4-6 quart slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray. This simple step will help prevent sticking without altering flavor or texture, making it easier to serve your delicious dessert later.

Step 2: Layer the Apple Pie Filling

Pour in both cans of apple pie filling evenly into the bottom of the slow cooker. I like to spread it out to cover the base because that juicy, cinnamon-spiced apple layer is the star underneath the cake topping.

Step 3: Sprinkle the Muffin Mix

Next, sprinkle the muffin mix evenly over the apple filling. Try to cover as much of the apple layer as possible, but don’t worry if it’s not perfectly smooth—the batter will expand and cook up nicely.

Step 4: Add the Butter

Pour the melted butter over the muffin mix. It won’t cover it all, but that’s okay—the butter helps the topping get crispy where it meets the slow cooker’s edges. Alternatively, slicing the butter and laying pieces across the top works well too if you want a little more control.

Step 5: Cover and Cook

Put the lid on and cook the cake on low for 3 to 5 hours, until the muffin mix is fully cooked through and the apple filling is bubbling. I usually start checking around 3 hours—once the top feels firm and the filling bubbles up, you’re good to go. Just remember, every slow cooker heats a bit differently, so adjust as needed.

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Pro Tips for Making Crock Pot Apple Dump Cake Recipe

  • Even Layering: Spread the muffin mix as evenly as possible to avoid thick or undercooked patches.
  • Butter Distribution: Melting butter vs. slicing it changes texture; melted butter seeps into the topping while sliced butter creates buttery pockets.
  • Keep an Eye on Cooking Time: Depending on your slow cooker, check around 3 hours to ensure top isn’t drying out.
  • Let it Rest: Allow the cake to sit in the slow cooker with the lid off for 10-15 minutes before serving to thicken up the juices.

How to Serve Crock Pot Apple Dump Cake Recipe

The image shows a white plate with a warm, golden-brown peach cobbler. The cobbler has a crumbly, slightly crispy top layer with a rough texture, golden with some darker, baked spots. Beneath this is a thick, glossy layer of soft, orange peach filling with visible peach slices mixed in a syrupy sauce. On top of the cobbler, there is a smooth, white dollop of cream or ice cream beginning to melt slightly into the warm dessert. The plate rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

I always serve this cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream—that creamy contrast to the warm cake is unbeatable. A sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel sauce on top adds a special touch I love for cozy nights in.

Side Dishes

This makes a fantastic standalone dessert, but if you’re serving it after a meal, it pairs beautifully with a simple cup of coffee or hot tea. For holiday dinners, I sometimes serve fresh fruit or lightly spiced nuts alongside to complement the flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like to serve the cake in individual ramekins straight from the slow cooker or transfer it to a trifle dish for an elegant layered look. Add fresh apple slices or edible flowers on top to impress guests with minimal extra effort.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After the cake cools, I cover it tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days. It stays moist and flavorful, and I love that it reheats well for quick second helpings.

Freezing

I’ve frozen leftover portions in airtight containers with pretty good results—just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently. Texture is best when you don’t freeze it for too long, but it’s a great way to save a batch for later.

Reheating

My favorite way is to reheat individual servings in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds or until warm. You can also warm it in a 350°F oven covered with foil to keep it moist if you’re reheating a larger portion.

FAQs

  1. Can I use fresh apples instead of canned apple pie filling?

    Absolutely! If you use fresh apples, slice them thinly and toss with sugar, cinnamon, and a bit of lemon juice before adding to the crock pot. You may need to cook a little longer for the apples to soften properly.

  2. What can I substitute for the muffin mix?

    You can use boxed cake mix, biscuit mix, or even make a homemade crumb topping. Each option will give a slightly different texture but still taste delicious in this Crock Pot Apple Dump Cake recipe.

  3. How long should I cook the dump cake in a crock pot?

    Cooking time can vary based on your slow cooker, but generally, 3 to 5 hours on low works best. You want the muffin topping fully cooked and the apple filling bubbling.

  4. Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?

    Yes, but you’ll need a larger slow cooker or to make it in two batches. Cooking times may vary, so check for doneness as you go.

Final Thoughts

This Crock Pot Apple Dump Cake recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s so easy, reliable, and delivers that warm, comforting flavor we all go back to time and again. I genuinely think you’ll enjoy making it as much as eating it—and it’s one of those dishes that feels like a big hug on a plate. Give it a try for your next cozy night in or family gathering; I promise it won’t disappoint.

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Crock Pot Apple Dump Cake Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.5 from 709 reviews
  • Author: Lauren
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 hours
  • Total Time: 5 hours 5 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Crock Pot Apple Dump Cake is an easy, comforting dessert featuring sweet apple pie filling topped with cinnamon muffin mix and buttery goodness. Perfect for a hassle-free treat, it cooks slowly in a slow cooker resulting in a warm, bubbly, and tender cake that’s ideal for fall or any time you crave a cozy dessert.


Ingredients

Filling

  • 2 (21 ounce) cans apple pie filling (can use sugar free)

Topping

  • 2 (7 ounce) packets Martha White Apple Cinnamon muffin mix (or your favorite brand)
  • ½ cup (1 stick) salted butter, melted (or cut into slices)


Instructions

  1. Prepare Slow Cooker: Lightly spray a 4-6 quart slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Add Apple Filling: Pour both cans of apple pie filling evenly into the bottom of the slow cooker.
  3. Sprinkle Muffin Mix: Evenly sprinkle the two packets of apple cinnamon muffin mix over the apple pie filling layer.
  4. Add Butter: Pour the melted butter over the muffin mix, covering as much as possible though it may not fully cover the dry mix. Alternatively, distribute sliced butter evenly over the muffin mix.
  5. Cook the Cake: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 3 to 5 hours, or until the muffin mix is fully cooked and the apple pie filling is bubbly.

Notes

  • Using sugar-free apple pie filling reduces sugar content for a lighter dessert.
  • Martha White Apple Cinnamon muffin mix adds enhanced cinnamon flavor, but any similar mix can be substituted.
  • Butter can be melted or sliced—both methods yield delicious results.
  • Timing varies depending on the slow cooker; check doneness starting at 3 hours.
  • Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1/6 of cake)
  • Calories: 380
  • Sugar: 35g
  • Sodium: 250mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 55g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg

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