As the crisp autumn air settles in, there’s nothing quite like the comforting scent of baking apples and cinnamon wafting through the house. This Cozy Crockpot Apple Dump Cake was born on a particularly busy weekend when I craved that heartwarming fall experience without spending hours slaving away in the kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and a trusty slow cooker, you can create an indulgent dessert that feels like a warm hug.

Imagine the moment when you lift the lid of your slow cooker to reveal a golden, bubbling masterpiece—sweet apple filling enveloped beneath a buttery cake layer, calling out to be served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself after a long day, this easy dessert is sure to impress and satisfy without breaking a sweat. Let’s dive into this simple recipe that proves that delightful indulgence can come with ease, even on the busiest of days!

Why is Slow Cooker Apple Pie Dump Cake irresistible?

Simplicity at its finest: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and an easy setup—just toss everything into your slow cooker and let magic happen!
Aromatic bliss: The delightful scents of baking apples and warm spices fill your home, creating an inviting atmosphere.
Versatility shines: Customize the dessert to your taste—add nuts or swap apple for cherry filling for a fun twist.
Quick prep time: With just a few minutes of hands-on work, you can enjoy a fabulous dessert without hours in the kitchen.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, this dish will wow your guests. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence, just like with my Pumpkin Coffee Cake for a cozy fall treat.

Slow Cooker Apple Pie Dump Cake Ingredients

For the Filling
• Apple Pie Filling – Provides sweetness and texture; you can also use fresh apples by peeling and slicing about 4-5 medium apples mixed with sugar and spices for a fresher option.
• Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and enhances the apple flavor; feel free to substitute with apple pie spice if you desire a spicier kick.
• Ground Nutmeg – Offers a subtle nutty depth, but you can omit it if you don’t have it on hand.

For the Cake Layer
• Yellow Cake Mix – Forms the delicious cake topping; substitute with gluten-free cake mix for a gluten-free option.
• Unsalted Butter – Contributes richness and moisture to the cake topping; can be replaced with margarine or a dairy-free alternative.

This collection of ingredients comes together to make a delightful Slow Cooker Apple Pie Dump Cake that’s sure to warm your heart and home!

How to Make Slow Cooker Apple Pie Dump Cake

Prepare the slow cooker by lightly greasing the interior or using a slow cooker liner to prevent sticking. This step is essential for easy serving later on!
Pour two cans of apple pie filling evenly into the bottom of the slow cooker, spreading it out gently so the apples get the heat they need to bubble up!
Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg over the apple filling, enhancing the aroma and flavor of your dish. Warm spice will mingle beautifully as it cooks!
Distribute the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the apple layers without mixing, creating the top layer that will bake into a delightful cake crust.
Drizzle 1/2 cup of melted butter evenly over the cake mix. This step is what gives that irresistible golden brown finish and moist texture on top!
Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours until the top is golden brown and the cake is bubbly. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking so the heat stays trapped inside!
Cool for 10 minutes before serving; this allows the dessert to set a bit. Serve warm with whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for a delightful finish!

Optional: Top with a sprinkle of chopped nuts for added texture and crunch.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Crockpot Apple Dump Cake?

Delight your loved ones with a full meal that complements the sweet, spiced notes of your slow-cooked dessert.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that melts beautifully over the warm cake, adding creaminess to every spoonful.
Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, it provides a fresh contrast, enhancing the cake’s comforting flavors. Top generously!
Cinnamon Sugar Donuts: These delightful treats harmonize with the apple cake’s spices, adding an enjoyable crunchy texture.
Glazed Carrots: Their sweetness and slight crunch provide a nice balance to the rich apple flavors, creating a well-rounded plate.
Roasted Pears: Caramelized pears bring an elegant touch to your meal, echoing the apples in the dump cake while enhancing the fall experience.
Nutty Granola: Sprinkle this on top of a warm serving for an unexpected crunch that pairs wonderfully with the cake’s softness.
Spiced Apple Cider: A warm drink that elevates the autumn vibes, infusing the meal with cozy flavors that tie it all together.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzle over the cake or serve on the side for an indulgent touch that amplifies the dessert’s sweetness.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: For the ultimate dessert table, offer these alongside the dump cake for guests who appreciate a chocolatey twist.

Slow Cooker Apple Pie Dump Cake Variations

Feel free to get creative with your dessert by incorporating these delicious twists and substitutions that will tantalize your taste buds!

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free yellow cake mix to make this dessert suitable for those with gluten sensitivities, while retaining the same delightful flavors.
Nutty Crunch: Add 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch and added flavor, enhancing the cake’s texture beautifully.
Spiced Delight: Substitute ground cinnamon and nutmeg with apple pie spice for an extra kick of warmth that captures the essence of fall.
Fruity Twist: Swap out the classic apple pie filling for cherry or peach filling to create a vibrant and flavorful variation that’s equally delicious.
Extra Sweetness: Drizzle caramel sauce over the top before serving for an indulgent touch that complements the warm, spiced apples perfectly.
Oat Topping: Mix in 1/2 cup of oats with the cake mix for an added layer of texture that gives the cake a wholesome, rustic character.
Zingy Citrus: Add the zest of one lemon or orange to your apple filling for a bright, refreshing flavor that balances the sweetness beautifully.
Chocolate Indulgence: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the cake mix before adding the butter for a decadent chocolatey surprise that will delight dessert lovers!

These variations ensure that your Slow Cooker Apple Pie Dump Cake will be uniquely yours, bursting with delightful flavors and textures!

How to Store and Freeze Slow Cooker Apple Pie Dump Cake

Room Temperature: Allow the dessert to cool completely before storing. It can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours, but refrigerate if longer to maintain freshness.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the cake moist and the flavors intact.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions of the Slow Cooker Apple Pie Dump Cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy your cake again, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds or until warm.

Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Apple Pie Dump Cake

Crispier Topping: For a crispier topping, prop the lid open for the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow moisture to escape.
Avoid Lid Lifting: Resist the urge to open the lid during cooking; this keeps the heat steady, ensuring your Slow Cooker Apple Pie Dump Cake cooks evenly.
Night Before Prep: Prepare the ingredients the night before and refrigerate. In the morning, simply plug in the slow cooker and enjoy the aroma wafting through your home!
Avoid Soggy Cake: Make sure to distribute the cake mix evenly over the filling without mixing; this prevents a soggy texture from developing.
Flavor Variations: Customize your cake by adding chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch, or try a different fruit filling to suit your taste!

Slow Cooker Apple Pie Dump Cake Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right apples for the filling?
Absolutely! If you choose to use fresh apples instead of canned pie filling, I recommend going for tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. Aim for about 4-5 medium apples, peeling and slicing them before tossing them with sugar and cinnamon for that delightful spiced flavor. Look for firm apples without dark spots or blemishes for the best results!

How should I store leftovers?
Storing your Slow Cooker Apple Pie Dump Cake is simple! Allow it to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’re anything like me and enjoy indulging later, just pop individual portions in the microwave to reheat—about 30 seconds should do the trick!

Can I freeze the cake for later use?
Definitely! To freeze your Slow Cooker Apple Pie Dump Cake, I recommend wrapping portions tightly in plastic wrap, then placing them in a freezer-safe bag. This method keeps it fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the microwave for a quick and easy dessert.

What if my dump cake turns out too soggy?
No worries! If your cake ends up soggy, there are a couple of things to keep in mind for next time. Make sure to sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the apple filling without mixing it in. Also, you can prop the lid open during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow moisture to escape, giving you that lovely golden crust you’re aiming for!

Is this dessert suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, it is! You can easily make this Slow Cooker Apple Pie Dump Cake gluten-free by simply substituting the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free variety. Most store-bought options work beautifully, and everyone can enjoy a slice of this cozy fall treat!

Can I add other fruits to this recipe?
Very! This recipe is incredibly versatile. Instead of apple pie filling, feel free to experiment with cherry or peach filling for a fruity twist. You can also mix in some chopped nuts for added texture, making it a fun and delightful variation on the classic!