Caramel Apple Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake

There’s something magical about the smell of cinnamon, apples, and caramel wafting through the house on a cool fall day. This Caramel Apple Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake is all that cozy magic baked into one easy dessert. Picture it: golden, pillowy cinnamon rolls nestled into gooey apple pie filling and drizzled with rich caramel sauce.

I first baked this on a rainy afternoon when I needed something warm and comforting. The smell alone brought my family into the kitchen before it even came out of the oven. The best part? It only took 10 minutes to prep. This is truly a recipe for everyone—whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for a foolproof sweet treat.

With minimal effort, pantry-friendly ingredients, and flavors that scream “autumn comfort,” this dump cake is perfect for busy weeknights, holiday gatherings, or anytime you crave something indulgent.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just any dump cake—it’s the ultimate shortcut to fall dessert heaven. Here’s why you’re going to fall head over heels for it:

Irresistibly Gooey and Sweet

Every bite is pure bliss: tender chunks of cinnamon roll soak up the spiced apple filling, while rich caramel sauce oozes into every crevice. It’s warm, sticky, and just the right amount of sweet—like an apple pie and a sticky bun had a delicious baby.

Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor

You don’t need a long shopping list or fancy tools. This recipe leans on:

• Store-bought cinnamon rolls

• A can of apple pie filling

• A drizzle of your favorite caramel sauce
  That’s it. Three supermarket staples come together to create a dessert that tastes homemade (with none of the stress).

Foolproof for Beginners

Even if your idea of baking involves unwrapping store-bought cookies, you can nail this recipe. There’s no dough to make, no mixer to haul out—just layer, drizzle, and bake. It’s a true “dump and go” dessert.

Perfectly Customizable

Want to add your own twist? You absolutely can:

• Sprinkle chopped pecans for a bit of crunch.

• Swap apple pie filling for cherry or peach for a seasonal switch-up.

• Add a pinch of sea salt to the caramel for a sweet-salty hit.
  This recipe is a blank canvas for your favorite flavors.

Ingredients

Let’s talk about the stars of this dessert. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—you probably already have most of these ingredients on hand. Each one plays a role in creating that cozy, gooey, caramel-drizzled masterpiece.

Full List of Ingredients

• 1 can (20 oz) apple pie filling – This is your shortcut to juicy, spiced apples without peeling or chopping. It’s the gooey base that makes this dump cake so irresistibly moist.

• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds a warm, comforting depth that pairs perfectly with apples.

• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional) – A little goes a long way to bring out autumn vibes.

• 1 can (8-count) refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing – Your hack for fluffy, golden layers without mixing or kneading. Bonus: you get the icing included!

• ½ cup caramel sauce (+ extra for drizzling) – Because you can never have too much caramel. This sticky sweetness ties the whole dessert together.

• ¼ cup chopped pecans (optional) – For a bit of crunch and nutty richness. Skip if you’re nut-free.

• Nonstick spray or butter – A quick greasing ensures your dump cake slides out like a dream.

How to Make Caramel Apple Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake

This is where the magic happens—and trust me, it couldn’t be easier. With just a few steps, you’ll have a bubbling, golden-brown dessert that smells like a bakery and tastes even better.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or a pat of butter. This will keep the caramel and cinnamon rolls from sticking.

2️⃣ Mix the Filling
In a medium bowl, stir together the apple pie filling, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg. Spread this spiced apple mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. It’s already looking delicious!

3️⃣ Add the Cinnamon Rolls
Pop open the can of refrigerated cinnamon rolls and cut each roll into quarters. Scatter these fluffy pieces evenly over the apple mixture. No need to arrange them perfectly—they’ll puff up beautifully as they bake.

4️⃣ Drizzle the Caramel and Sprinkle Pecans
Pour ½ cup of caramel sauce generously over the cinnamon rolls. If you’re using pecans, sprinkle them on now for added crunch.

5️⃣ Bake to Perfection
Slide the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cinnamon rolls are golden brown and cooked through. Your kitchen will smell heavenly at this point.

6️⃣ Finishing Touches
Let the dump cake cool slightly (if you can wait!). Then drizzle on the icing from the cinnamon roll can and add a little extra caramel sauce for good measure.

7️⃣ Serve and Enjoy
Scoop into bowls and serve warm. For the ultimate experience, top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and an extra drizzle of caramel.

What to Serve with This Recipe

This Caramel Apple Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake is a star on its own, but pairing it with a few extras can take your dessert game to the next level.

Suggested Pairings

• Hot Drinks:

  • A steaming mug of coffee or a creamy chai latte pairs beautifully with the warm spices.

  • Try spiced apple cider for an autumn-themed combo.

• Desserts:

  • Vanilla ice cream melting over a warm slice is pure decadence.

  • A dollop of whipped cream adds a light, airy finish.

• Fresh Fruit:

  • Brighten things up with a handful of fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries for a tart contrast.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this Caramel Apple Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake is how flexible it is. Whether you’re catering to dietary needs or just feeling creative, here are some easy ways to make it your own:

Nut-Free Option

If you’re skipping nuts due to allergies or preference, don’t worry—this cake is just as dreamy without them. For a little crunch, try sprinkling crushed graham crackers on top before baking. They’ll add a subtle, toasty flavor and satisfying texture.

Gluten-Free Option

Yes, you can make this gluten-free! Simply swap in gluten-free refrigerated cinnamon rolls (many grocery stores now carry them) and double-check your apple pie filling for any hidden gluten. You’ll get all the cozy flavors without compromise.

Extra Indulgent Version

Want to take this dessert completely over the top? Add a handful of chocolate chips to the mix for little melty pockets of joy. Or, drizzle melted chocolate over the baked cake along with the caramel. Chocolate + caramel + cinnamon = pure decadence.

Storage Instructions

Whether you’re lucky enough to have leftovers or planning to make this ahead, here’s how to keep your dump cake tasting fresh and fabulous:

Room Temperature Storage

Keep the cooled cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. It’s perfect for snacking straight from the pan.

Refrigeration Tips

For longer storage, refrigerate your dump cake for up to 5 days. To reheat, pop individual portions in the microwave for about 20–30 seconds to bring back that gooey goodness.

Freezing Instructions

Yes, you can freeze it! Once baked and cooled, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. To serve, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven or microwave.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Here are a few little nuggets of wisdom to guarantee success—even if this is your first time baking:

✅ Use high-quality caramel sauce for the best flavor. A good one really makes the dessert shine.

✅ Don’t overbake. Start checking at 25 minutes. You want golden cinnamon rolls, not crunchy ones.

✅ Warm the icing slightly before drizzling so it glides easily over the cake.

✅ For a sweet-salty twist, add a pinch of sea salt to the caramel drizzle. It’s game-changing.

Related Recipes

• Pumpkin Pie Cinnamon Rolls – Another warm, spiced cinnamon roll treat.

• Crock Pot Cinnamon Roll Casserole – A cozy cinnamon roll variation for slow cookers.

• Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake – Fruity, gooey, and just as easy.

• Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Pancakes – For cinnamon lovers who want breakfast to feel like dessert.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the cake (except for the icing) the night before, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake fresh when you’re ready to serve.

Can I use homemade apple filling?

Absolutely. Just make sure it’s thick enough to hold up during baking and not too runny.

Can I swap caramel for butterscotch?

Of course! Butterscotch offers a slightly different, deeper sweetness that pairs beautifully with the apples.

What if I don’t have a 9x13 pan?

No problem. You can use any similar-sized baking dish—just watch the bake time as smaller dishes may need a few extra minutes.

Conclusion

There’s nothing quite like the smell of caramel, cinnamon, and apples baking away to make your home feel extra cozy. This Caramel Apple Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake delivers all that and more with almost no effort.

It’s the kind of dessert that makes you look like a baking hero, even on your busiest day. So go ahead—try it this weekend. You’ll wonder why you didn’t sooner!

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