Caramel Apple Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake Recipe
If you are searching for an irresistibly cozy dessert that combines the best of fall flavors, then this Caramel Apple Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine the comforting aroma of cinnamon and caramel mingling with tender apple pie filling, all topped with fluffy, golden cinnamon rolls baked to perfection. This dessert captures the warm essence of a homemade apple pie but comes together with astonishing ease and a delightful twist that makes it a standout anytime you want to treat yourself or impress guests. It’s sweet, gooey, and perfectly spiced, offering every bite a little moment of happiness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, easy-to-find ingredients is what makes this Caramel Apple Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake Recipe a breeze to whip up. Each ingredient works together to create a medley of flavors and textures that are both cozy and indulgent.
- Apple pie filling: The star base with juicy, spiced apple chunks that give the cake its classic dessert feel.
- Ground cinnamon: Adds that warm, signature spice flavor essential for apple desserts.
- Ground nutmeg: A little pinch that enhances the spice profile for depth and warmth.
- Caramel sauce: Provides a luscious, sticky sweetness that ties the flavors beautifully.
- Refrigerated cinnamon rolls: The unique cake topping that becomes soft and golden while baking, infusing cinnamon-y goodness into every bite.
- Unsalted butter: Melts over the cinnamon rolls for added richness and to help achieve the perfect golden crust.
- Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional): For a delightful crunch and nutty dimension that balances the cake’s sweetness.
How to Make Caramel Apple Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This step ensures your dump cake won’t stick and lets the flavors meld effortlessly in a perfect vessel.
Step 2: Layer the Apple Base
Spread the apple pie filling evenly across the bottom of the baking dish. To deepen the flavor, sprinkle the top with ground cinnamon and nutmeg, then drizzle 1/4 cup of caramel sauce over it for a beautifully sweet layer beneath the cinnamon rolls.
Step 3: Add the Cinnamon Rolls
Unroll the refrigerated cinnamon rolls and slice each one into quarters. Scatter these pieces evenly over the spiced apple filling. This method gives you magical pockets of soft, cinnamon-infused dough throughout the cake.
Step 4: Add Butter and Nuts
Drizzle the melted unsalted butter evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces so they crisp up just right while baking. If you love a bit of texture, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top—their subtle crunch complements the softness of the cake wonderfully.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the dish in the oven for 30 to 35 minutes, until the cinnamon rolls turn golden brown and are fully cooked through. The aroma alone will have you excited for the next step!
Step 6: Finish with Icing and Extra Caramel
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and drizzle the provided icing from the cinnamon rolls all over the top. Add extra caramel sauce for the ultimate finish. Serve this dessert warm for gooey, melty perfection that melts in your mouth.
How to Serve Caramel Apple Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Top off your dump cake with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra celebration of creaminess and cold contrast against the warm cake. A sprinkle of cinnamon or a few extra chopped nuts make for an irresistible presentation.
Side Dishes
This dessert shines best as the grand finale to a cozy meal. Pair it with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or even mulled cider to complement the sweet, spiced flavors. If you want to go all out, add a side of roasted autumn veggies or savory pork dishes that balance the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the dump cake in elegant ramekins for individual portions, or spoon it into rustic mason jars for a charming twist at parties. You can also layer it with extra chopped apples or caramel sauce between servings for a DIY trifle style treat that’s as fun to assemble as it is to eat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Caramel Apple Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to maintain some of the crispy edges, avoid refrigerating. For longer storage, refrigeration is fine but expect the topping to soften slightly.
Freezing
You can freeze this dump cake by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or placing it in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to three months to enjoy the same comforting flavors any time you crave a slice of autumn in dessert form.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 30 to 45 seconds until warm. For the whole cake, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 to 15 minutes. Drizzle with extra caramel or icing again if needed to refresh that freshly baked taste.
FAQs
Can I use fresh apples instead of canned apple pie filling?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh apples, peel and slice them thinly, then cook them with sugar, cinnamon, and a bit of lemon juice on the stovetop until they soften before using. This adds an extra homemade touch.
Do I have to use refrigerated cinnamon rolls, or can I make my own dough?
Refrigerated cinnamon rolls add convenience and the perfect balance of sweet, soft dough and icing. However, if you enjoy baking from scratch, homemade cinnamon roll dough will work beautifully and add a personal flair.
Is it possible to make this dessert vegan or dairy-free?
Yes! To make it vegan, substitute the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based alternative, use dairy-free caramel sauce, and opt for vegan cinnamon rolls or homemade dough. The flavors remain just as cozy and delicious.
Can I add other nuts or omit them altogether?
Sure! You can use almonds, hazelnuts, or skip nuts if you prefer. They add a lovely crunch but the dump cake is wonderful with or without them.
How long will the cake keep its best texture after baking?
For the best experience, enjoy the cake within the first day. The cinnamon rolls are at their most tender and the apple filling juicy. After a day or two, the cake will still taste great but might lose some crispness.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Caramel Apple Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake Recipe enough. It’s an easy, comforting dessert that brings together nostalgic flavors in a way that feels both special and effortlessly simple. Whether you’re baking it for a holiday gathering, a family dinner, or just because, it’s sure to bring smiles and warm hugs from the inside out. Do yourself a favor and try it soon—you’ll want to make it a regular in your recipe collection!
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Caramel Apple Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This Caramel Apple Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake is a deliciously easy dessert combining warm apple pie filling, cinnamon-spiced cinnamon rolls, and luscious caramel sauce. A perfect cozy treat for fall or any time you crave a sweet, buttery dessert with minimal prep time.
Ingredients
Fruit Base
- 1 can (21 oz) apple pie filling
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
Cinnamon Rolls
- 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated cinnamon rolls (with icing)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Layer apple filling: Spread the apple pie filling evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle ground cinnamon and nutmeg over the apples, then drizzle 1/4 cup of caramel sauce on top for a rich, sweet flavor.
- Prepare cinnamon rolls: Unroll the refrigerated cinnamon rolls and cut each roll into quarters. Scatter these pieces evenly over the apple and spice mixture to create the cake’s top layer.
- Add butter and nuts: Drizzle the melted unsalted butter evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces. If desired, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture and a nutty taste.
- Bake the cake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the cinnamon rolls have turned a beautiful golden brown and are fully cooked through.
- Finish and serve: Remove the dish from the oven. Drizzle the cinnamon roll icing and additional caramel sauce over the top to enhance the sweetness and create a melt-in-your-mouth finish. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- For a nut-free version, omit the chopped pecans or walnuts.
- If you prefer a less sweet dessert, reduce the caramel sauce amount or serve it on the side.
- Use fresh apples with cinnamon and sugar as a substitution if apple pie filling is unavailable.
- Let the baked cake rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
