If you are craving a dessert that combines the warm, comforting flavors of fall with the easy prep of a dump cake, look no further than this delightful Caramel Apple Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake Recipe. Picture tender cinnamon roll quarters layered with luscious apple pie filling, spiced just right with cinnamon and nutmeg, all baked to golden perfection and drenched in caramel sauce and sweet icing. This is more than just a dessert; it’s a cozy hug in cake form that comes together quickly and always impresses. Whether for a family gathering or a sweet weeknight treat, this recipe is sure to become one of your favorite go-to indulgences.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this recipe couldn’t be simpler, yet each one plays a crucial role in creating a perfect balance of flavors, textures, and irresistible aroma. From the soft cinnamon rolls to the rich caramel sauce, every component is essential to making this dish a standout dessert experience.
- Refrigerated cinnamon rolls (2 cans, 12.4 oz each): They bring that fluffy, cinnamon-spiced base and come with sweet icing that finishes the dish beautifully.
- Apple pie filling (2 cans, 21 oz each): Adds juicy, tender apple pieces with a sweet cinnamon flavor that complements the rolls.
- Ground cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances warmth and spice for that authentic fall dessert feel.
- Nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): Offers a subtle depth and aromatic touch to the filling.
- Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): Elevates all the flavors, bringing a sweet, fragrant note.
- Caramel sauce (1/2 cup plus extra for drizzling): Provides gooey, buttery sweetness that makes every bite decadent.
- Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons, melted): Adds richness and helps achieve a golden, crisp top layer.
How to Make Caramel Apple Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish and Cinnamon Rolls
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) and giving your 9×13-inch baking dish a good greasing to prevent sticking. Next, open your cinnamon rolls, cut each roll into quarters, and set aside the icing in a separate bowl. This prepping makes layering easier and saves the icing for a luscious finish.
Step 2: Mix the Apple Pie Filling
In a large bowl, combine the apple pie filling with ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract. Stir gently but thoroughly so the spices are evenly distributed throughout the juicy, apple-packed filling, creating a mouthwatering aroma that hints at what’s to come.
Step 3: Assemble the Layers
Layer half of the cinnamon roll quarters into the bottom of your baking dish, spreading them out evenly. Pour the spiced apple pie filling over this first layer, making sure the apples cover the rolls fully. Next, drizzle the caramel sauce generously over the apples to infuse the dessert with rich sweetness.
Step 4: Top and Butter
Place the remaining cinnamon roll pieces over the apple and caramel layer. Then, drizzle the melted butter evenly across the top — this step ensures the rolls bake into a beautifully golden, slightly crisp topping that contrasts perfectly with the tender filling beneath.
Step 5: Bake and Finish
Pop your assembled dish into the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the top is bubbling and golden brown. Once out of the oven, let it cool for about 10 minutes to set slightly. Finally, drizzle the reserved icing and extra caramel sauce over the warm cake, turning it into a sticky-sweet masterpiece you’ll adore.
How to Serve Caramel Apple Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this already sumptuous dessert, consider sprinkling chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking for a delightful crunch. After baking, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream adds a cool, creamy contrast that makes the flavors sing and your guests swoon.
Side Dishes
This dessert pairs beautifully with a simple cup of hot coffee, chai tea, or even a glass of cold milk to balance out the richness. For an autumn-themed meal, serving it alongside warm spiced cider or a light salad can create a well-rounded dining experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Caramel Apple Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake Recipe straight from the baking dish for that warm, homey feel. For a fancier touch, cut it into neat squares and plate with extra caramel drizzle and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar. You might also try serving individual portions in ramekins topped with a pecan for that special homemade look.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover dessert in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It keeps well, and the flavors tend to deepen, making your next slice just as delicious. Before serving, let it come to room temperature or warm it slightly for the best texture.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freeze the baked dump cake (without icing and caramel drizzles) wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will stay good for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating and adding the fresh icing and caramel on top.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 30 seconds or until warm, or place the entire dish in a 325-degree oven covered with foil to avoid drying out. Adding a little extra drizzle of caramel sauce after reheating brings back that fresh-baked magic.
FAQs
Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls for this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade cinnamon rolls would add a special, personal touch. Just cut them into quarters like the canned ones and proceed with the recipe as usual.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, if you can find gluten-free cinnamon rolls and confirm your pie filling is gluten-free, you can adapt this recipe. Just be sure to check all labels carefully.
Can I substitute the apple pie filling with fresh apples?
You can, but it requires a bit more prep. Slice and cook fresh apples with sugar and spices until tender before layering, as fresh apples alone won’t soften enough during baking.
What is the best way to prevent the topping from burning?
Keep an eye on the cake during the last 10 minutes of baking. If the top browns too quickly, tent it loosely with foil to protect it while the filling finishes cooking.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this vegan, look for dairy-free cinnamon rolls, skip the butter or use vegan butter, and check the caramel sauce ingredients. Vegan vanilla ice cream or whipped cream makes perfect accompaniments.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about the way the Caramel Apple Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake Recipe combines nostalgic flavors with effortless preparation. It’s a clever dessert that fills your kitchen with warmth and your heart with joy. Whether you’re sharing it with family or treating yourself to a cozy night in, I encourage you to try this recipe and savor every gooey, spiced, caramel-drizzled bite. Once you do, it will likely become a cherished classic in your dessert repertoire!
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Caramel Apple Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Caramel Apple Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake is a delightfully easy dessert combining fluffy cinnamon rolls, spiced apple pie filling, and luscious caramel sauce. Perfect for fall or any cozy occasion, this recipe layers sweet cinnamon rolls with warm apple spices and caramel, then bakes to golden perfection. Topped with icing and extra caramel drizzle, it’s a rich, comforting treat everyone will love.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cans (12.4 oz each) refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing
- 2 cans (21 oz each) apple pie filling
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (plus more for drizzling)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare cinnamon rolls: Open the cans of refrigerated cinnamon rolls, remove the icing packets and set aside. Cut each cinnamon roll into quarters for layering.
- Mix apple filling: In a large bowl, combine the apple pie filling with ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract. Stir thoroughly to blend the spices evenly into the apple mixture.
- Layer the base: Spread half of the quartered cinnamon roll pieces evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating the base for your dump cake.
- Add apple layer: Pour the spiced apple pie filling mixture over the cinnamon roll base, ensuring it is distributed evenly.
- Drizzle caramel: Generously drizzle the 1/2 cup caramel sauce over the apple filling to boost the richness and sweetness.
- Top with remaining cinnamon rolls: Place the remaining cinnamon roll quarters atop the caramel and apple layer.
- Add melted butter: Evenly drizzle the melted unsalted butter over the top to help achieve a golden and crispy crust while baking.
- Bake: Bake the assembled cake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Cool and finish: Allow the cake to cool for 10 minutes to set slightly. Then drizzle with the reserved cinnamon roll icing and additional caramel sauce before serving for an extra luscious finish.
Notes
- For extra crunch, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the top before baking.
- Serve warm with vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert treat.
- You can substitute the canned apple pie filling with homemade apple pie filling for a fresher taste.
