There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, sweet dessert made right in your slow cooker. This crock pot apple dump cake comes together with almost no effort and delivers a soft, gooey apple filling topped with buttery, cake-like crumbs.
It’s the kind of dessert you can set and forget, perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings. Every bite is warm, cozy, and full of classic apple cinnamon flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dessert is incredibly easy to make with just a few pantry ingredients and minimal prep work. It’s perfect for when you want a homemade treat without turning on the oven.
The combination of apple pie filling and muffin mix creates a soft, cobbler-like texture with a golden topping. The slow cooker does all the work, making it ideal for busy schedules.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Apple pie filling provides a sweet, spiced base that becomes extra tender as it cooks slowly.
Muffin mix forms the cake-like topping that soaks up butter and turns golden and soft.
Butter adds richness and helps create that signature crispy, crumbly top layer.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Make sure the butter is evenly distributed so the dry muffin mix cooks properly. Any dry spots will remain powdery if not covered.
Cooking time may vary slightly depending on your slow cooker, so check for a bubbly filling and fully set topping before serving.
How to Make Crock Pot Apple Dump Cake
- Step 1 – Prepare the slow cooker
Lightly spray a 4–6 quart slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. - Step 2 – Add the apple filling
Pour both cans of apple pie filling into the slow cooker and spread evenly. - Step 3 – Add the dry mix
Evenly sprinkle the apple cinnamon muffin mix over the apple filling without stirring. - Step 4 – Add the butter
Pour melted butter evenly over the muffin mix or place thin slices across the surface to cover as much as possible. - Step 5 – Slow cook
Cover and cook on low for 3–5 hours until the topping is cooked through and the filling is bubbling.
What to Serve Them With
This dessert is delicious on its own while still warm and fresh from the slow cooker.
You can also serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Variations / Substitutions
You can swap apple pie filling for cherry or peach filling for a different flavor profile.
Try using yellow cake mix instead of muffin mix for a slightly lighter topping texture.
For extra warmth, add cinnamon or nutmeg to the fruit layer before cooking.
Storage & Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the microwave until warm before serving for the best texture and flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I use fresh apples instead of canned filling?
A: Yes, but you’ll need to cook them with sugar and spices first to soften and sweeten them.
Q: Can I cook this on high instead of low?
A: Yes, but reduce the time to about 2–3 hours and check frequently to avoid overcooking.
Q: Why is part of my topping still dry?
A: It usually means the butter wasn’t evenly distributed across the surface.
Q: Can I double this recipe?
A: Yes, but use a larger slow cooker and increase cooking time slightly.
Q: Can I add nuts or extra toppings?
A: Yes, chopped pecans or walnuts can be added before cooking for extra crunch.
Final Thoughts
This crock pot apple dump cake is the ultimate easy dessert for busy days or cozy nights. With minimal effort, you get a warm, sweet, and comforting dish that feels homemade in the best way.
It’s simple, reliable, and always a crowd-pleaser whenever you serve it.
Full Recipe Card
Ingredients
2 (21 ounce) cans apple pie filling
2 (7 ounce) packets Martha White Apple Cinnamon muffin mix
½ cup (1 stick) salted butter, melted
Instructions
Lightly spray a 4–6 quart slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray.
Pour in apple pie filling and spread evenly.
Sprinkle muffin mix evenly over the top without stirring.
Drizzle melted butter evenly over the surface.
Cover and cook on low for 3–5 hours until bubbly and cooked through.
