Air Fryer Caramel Apple Dump Cake

So there I was, rushing through another busy Manhattan evening, when Alex suddenly had a craving for something sweet. Well, who could resist his big eyes? That's when Air Fryer Caramel Apple Dump Cake came to the rescue. This recipe is a lifesaver on weeknights, needing just a handful of ingredients and minimal cleanup. Plus, when you make it once, your family will ask for it again and again.

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Why you’ll love this recipe
Ingredients
Step-by-step instructions
Recipe tips & variations
Storage & reheating
FAQs
Recipes you may like
Air Fryer Caramel Apple Dump Cake

If you love this simple dessert as much as we do, make sure to check out my Gluten-Free Lemon Crinkle Cookies.

Why you’ll love this recipe

You'll adore this recipe for its easy preparation and fantastic flavor that comes together in just 30 minutes. It’s a sweet treat perfect for those weekend afternoons when Alex and Sarah have friends over, and everyone needs a quick lift that's homemade and special.

Ingredients

4 apples, unpeeled and shredded
¼ cup caramel syrup
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
5-6 wrapped caramels, cut into quarters (optional)
¾ cup butter pecan cake mix (about ¼ of a 15.25-ounce box)
6 tablespoon cold salted butter, sliced ¼ inch thick
Optional topping: Butter pecan ice cream or whipped cream

Step-by-step instructions

Preheat the air fryer to 320 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 minutes.
Place shredded apples into a 6-inch round cake pan.
Add caramel syrup and cinnamon to the apples and stir until combined.
Distribute caramel pieces evenly over the apples if using them. Press down slightly to ensure they don't stick out.
Dump the cake mix on top and spread evenly.
Cover the top with pats of cold butter.
Carefully place the cake pan into the preheated air fryer.
Cook at 320 degrees F for 15 minutes. Check to see if the top is browning evenly and rotate if necessary. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the sides are bubbling.
Serve topped with butter pecan ice cream or whipped cream if desired.

Recipe tips & variations

For a twist, substitute the apples with pears or add a handful of chopped pecans for extra crunch. If you prefer a stronger cinnamon flavor, a pinch of nutmeg can also do wonders. Speaking of wonders, Donald swears by this combo!

Storage & reheating

Store any leftovers (if there are any!) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place a slice in the air fryer at 300 degrees for 3-4 minutes to regain that freshly baked texture.

FAQs

Can you make Air Fryer Apple Dump Cake with canned apple pie filling?

Absolutely! Canned apple pie filling is a great shortcut. Just remember to cut back on the caramel syrup to avoid making it too sweet.

How do you know when an Air Fryer Apple Dump Cake is fully cooked?

The cake is done when the tops are golden brown and the sides are lightly bubbling. A toothpick test can be tricky here because of the gooey caramel!

What toppings go best with an Air Fryer Apple Dump Cake?

We've found butter pecan ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to complement the caramel flavors perfectly. Some crushed nuts also add a nice crunch!

Can you store or freeze Air Fryer Apple Dump Cake for later?

You sure can. Freeze it in portions. When ready to enjoy, let it thaw in the fridge and reheat in the air fryer.

Recipes you may like

This recipe has become a quick favorite, especially on those unexpected busy days when you want something homemade but don't have hours to spend. Trust me, once you make it, you'll keep coming back to it! Enjoy, and let me know how yours turns out!