Slow Cooker 3-Ingredient Apple Cinnamon Dump Cake (Easy Crockpot Dessert)
If you’re craving a warm, cozy, and effortless dessert, this Slow Cooker 3-Ingredient Apple Cinnamon Dump Cake is the ultimate treat. With just a few pantry staples and minimal prep time, you get a sweet, bubbling apple filling topped with a buttery, golden cake layer—pure comfort with every spoonful. This dump-and-go recipe is beginner-friendly, budget-friendly, and perfect for busy families, holiday gatherings, or whenever you need a no-stress dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Apple Cinnamon Dump Cake
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Only 3 simple ingredients
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No mixing bowls needed—just layer and cook
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Perfect for potlucks, parties, or last-minute desserts
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Warm, sweet, cinnamon-spiced flavor everyone loves
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Crockpot cooking = no oven required
Ingredients
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2 (20-ounce) cans apple pie filling
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1 (15.25-ounce) box yellow cake mix (dry mix only)
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1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
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Optional: 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon for extra warmth
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Lightly grease a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker with cooking spray or rub a thin layer of butter on the inside.
This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Add the Apple Pie Filling
Spread the apple pie filling evenly across the bottom of the cooker.
If you enjoy a stronger cinnamon flavor, sprinkle 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon over the apples before adding the cake mix.
Step 3: Add the Dry Cake Mix
Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the apple layer.
Do not stir.
Keeping the layers separate helps create the cobbler-style topping that makes dump cakes so delicious.
Step 4: Drizzle with Melted Butter
Pour the melted butter over the top of the cake mix as evenly as possible.
It’s okay if some dry patches remain—moisture from the apples will help cook them through.
Step 5: Slow Cook the Dump Cake
Cover and cook:
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On HIGH: 2 to 2½ hours
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On LOW: 4 to 5 hours
You’ll know it’s ready when:
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The top looks set
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The edges turn golden and slightly crisp
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The apples are bubbling underneath
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Turn off the slow cooker and let the dump cake rest 10–15 minutes.
This helps it thicken and set for perfect serving.
Spoon into bowls and enjoy warm—plain or topped with:
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Vanilla ice cream
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Whipped cream
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Caramel drizzle
Variations & Tips (Make It Your Own)
Add More Warm Spice
Mix in:
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½ teaspoon nutmeg
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¼ teaspoon cloves
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Or simply use a spice cake mix instead of yellow cake mix
Make It Less Sweet
Replace one can of apple pie filling with:
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Unsweetened applesauce
or -
Fresh apple slices tossed with cinnamon and a spoon of sugar
Add Crunch
Sprinkle ½–¾ cup chopped pecans or walnuts over the cake mix before the butter.
Boost the Flavor
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Add dried cranberries to the apple layer for tartness
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Drizzle caramel sauce over each serving for a caramel-apple twist
Lighter Version
Use 6 tablespoons of butter instead of ½ cup and serve with yogurt instead of ice cream.
Serving Suggestions
This slow cooker apple dump cake is perfect for:
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Thanksgiving
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Fall and winter gatherings
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Easy weeknight desserts
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Potluck parties
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Holiday buffets
Serve warm for the coziest flavor and texture!
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker 3-Ingredient Apple Cinnamon Dump Cake is the perfect dessert when you want something sweet, simple, and satisfying. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s sure to become a family favorite you’ll make again and again.