Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake

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Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake – Cozy, Cinnamon-Spiced & Irresistibly Easy

Tender apples, warm spices, and a snickerdoodle cookie topping baked into golden perfection—this dump cake is the ultimate comfort dessert.

Introduction: A Fall Favorite with a Cookie Twist

Dump cakes are the unsung heroes of the dessert world—simple to make, endlessly customizable, and always crowd-pleasing. This Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake takes the classic concept and gives it a delicious twist by using snickerdoodle cookie mix as the topping. The result? A warm, gooey apple filling with a crisp, cinnamon-sugar crust that tastes like apple pie and snickerdoodle cookies had a delicious baby.

Perfect for fall gatherings, Thanksgiving, or just a cozy night in, this dessert is easy enough for beginners and impressive enough for guests. Serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream, and you’ve got a dessert that feels like a hug in a bowl.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at what makes this dump cake so comforting and flavorful:

Fruit Base:

  • Tart apples (6 cups, peeled and thinly sliced)
    Granny Smith recommended for their firm texture and bright flavor.
  • Dark brown sugar (⅓ cup)
    Adds molasses depth and caramel notes.
  • Granulated sugar (¼ cup)
    Balances the tartness of the apples.
  • Fresh orange juice (¼ cup)
    Adds brightness and enhances the apple flavor.
  • Fresh lemon juice (1 tbsp)
    Prevents browning and balances sweetness.

Topping:

  • Snickerdoodle cookie mix (1 package, 17.9 oz)
    Includes cinnamon-sugar packet—creates a crisp, cookie-like topping.
  • Unsalted butter (½ cup, melted and slightly cooled)
    Helps the topping brown and crisp.
  • Chopped pecans or walnuts (1 cup, optional)
    Adds crunch and nutty richness—toast for extra flavor.

For Serving:

  • Vanilla or cinnamon ice cream
    Melts into the warm cake for a dreamy finish.
  • Extra cinnamon-sugar (optional)
    Adds sparkle and spice.

Equipment Needed

  • Mixing bowls
  • 11×7-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Spoon or spatula
  • Oven

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep & Preheat

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

Lightly grease your baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.

Step 2: Layer the Apples

In a large bowl:

  • Toss 6 cups sliced apples with
  • ⅓ cup brown sugar
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup orange juice
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice

Mix gently until evenly coated.

Pour into prepared dish and spread into an even layer.

Step 3: Add the Cookie Crumble

In a medium bowl:

  • Combine snickerdoodle cookie mix and cinnamon-sugar packet.

Sprinkle evenly over the apples.

Do not stir—this layering creates the signature dump cake texture.

Step 4: Drizzle & Top

Drizzle ½ cup melted butter evenly over the dry mix.

Scatter 1 cup chopped nuts over the top (optional).

Tip: Toast nuts beforehand for deeper flavor.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Bake for 35–40 minutes, until:

  • Topping is deeply golden
  • Edges are bubbling
  • Apples are fork-tender

Let cool for 10–15 minutes before serving.

Step 6: Serve Warm & Cozy

Scoop into bowls.

Top with:

  • Vanilla or cinnamon ice cream
  • Pinch of cinnamon-sugar (optional)

Yields:

  • 8 servings

Presentation Tip: Serve in rustic bowls with a cinnamon stick or orange zest for flair.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect for:

  • Fall potlucks
  • Thanksgiving dessert tables
  • Cozy weekend baking
  • Last-minute guests

Pair with:

  • Hot apple cider
  • Chai latte
  • Bourbon whipped cream

Tip: Serve with a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.

Variations to Try

Want to make it your own? Try these delicious twists:

Pear Snickerdoodle

Swap apples for ripe pears.

Chocolate Chip

Add mini chocolate chips to the cookie mix.

Coconut Apple

Add shredded coconut to the apple layer.

Vegan Version

Use plant-based butter and cookie mix.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Make-Ahead: Assemble up to 1 day in advance and refrigerate. Bake when ready.
  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Reheat: Warm in oven at 325°F for 10–15 minutes.

Tip: Add a splash of cream before reheating to refresh texture.

Nutrition Notes (Per Serving, ~1 of 8)

  • Calories: ~320
  • Protein: ~3g
  • Carbohydrates: ~38g
  • Fat: ~18g
  • Sugar: ~24g
  • Sodium: ~180mg
  • Fiber: ~2g

This dessert is:

  • Warm and spiced
  • Gooey and crunchy
  • Perfectly portioned
  • Great for sharing

Final Thoughts

This Apple Snickerdoodle Dump Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of fall flavors, cozy textures, and easy baking. Whether you’re making it for a crowd or just for yourself, it’s guaranteed to impress and satisfy.

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