This Cranberry Apple Dump Cake Is the Lazy Day Dessert You’ll Make on Repeat!

There’s something magical about Cranberry Apple Dump Cake that makes it a crowd-pleaser every time. The tartness of the cranberries combined with the sweet, warm apples creates a flavor profile that’s perfect for fall and winter gatherings.

It’s as comforting as it is delicious, with a golden, buttery topping that crisps up perfectly as it bakes. Best of all? You don’t have to fuss over complicated instructions—just dump the ingredients in the pan, pop it in the oven, and let it do its thing.

I stumbled upon this recipe during a busy holiday season when I needed a dessert that was quick yet delicious. As soon as I took the first bite, I knew I had found something special.

The rich, fruity filling with the perfect amount of sweetness pairs beautifully with a warm glass of Mulled Wine or alongside a batch of Shortbread Cookies for a treat that feels like a celebration.

This cake is an effortless way to bring a touch of elegance and flavor to any occasion. Whether it’s a holiday dinner or a simple weeknight dessert, Cranberry Apple Dump Cake is always a hit, and it requires minimal effort on your part.

Why You Will Be Hooked?

• Effortless but impressive: You literally “dump” the ingredients, and it turns out delicious every time.
• Perfect balance of flavors: The tangy cranberries and sweet apples make this dessert irresistible.
• Holiday-ready: Whether it’s Thanksgiving or Christmas, this dessert is always in season.
• No stress: It’s the perfect make-ahead dessert for busy nights or family gatherings.

This Cranberry Apple Dump Cake is as easy as it is delicious, making it a go-to dessert whenever you’re craving something comforting and festive. You’ll love the burst of flavors and how little time it takes to create!

Cranberry Apple Dump Cake

This effortless dump cake combines tangy cranberry sauce, sweet apple pie filling, and a buttery cake topping with a crunchy walnut finish. A cozy dessert perfect for any gathering!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 11 minutes mins

Total Time 11 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 15

Calories 394 kcal

Equipment

• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Spatula or spoon
• Knife (to cut butter)
• Measuring Cup (for nuts)
• Oven

Ingredients

  

• 1 16 ounce can whole berry cranberry sauce
• 1 21 ounce can apple pie filling
• 1 18 1/4 ounce box yellow cake mix
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/2 cup walnuts chopped

Instructions

 

• Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
• Layer Cranberry Sauce: Spread the cranberry sauce evenly into an ungreased 9×13-inch baking pan.
  
• Add Apple Pie Filling: Dump the apple pie filling over the cranberry sauce and spread it out evenly.
  
• Top with Cake Mix: Sift the dry yellow cake mix over the top of the filling mixture.
  
• Dot with Butter: Cut the butter into small pieces and evenly distribute them over the cake mix.
  
• Add Nuts: Sprinkle the chopped walnuts (or granola) on top.
  
• Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
  
• Cool and Serve: Let cool for 10 minutes, then cut into squares. Serve with Cool Whip or ice cream for an extra treat.
  

Nutrition Facts:

Expert-Level Variations for Cranberry Apple Dump Cake!

1. Spiced Cranberry Apple Cake
   Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg, and a pinch of ground cloves to the dry cake mix before spreading it over the filling. These warm spices will enhance the apple and cranberry flavors.
2. Citrus Twist
   Stir the zest of one orange into the cranberry sauce for a tangy, citrusy kick that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the apple pie filling.
3. Nutty Crunch
   Swap the walnuts for pecans or almonds, or mix multiple nuts for a variety of textures. For extra crunch, toast the nuts before sprinkling them on top.
4. Berry Blend
   Replace the cranberry sauce with a mixed berry blend (like blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries) or use half cranberry and half raspberry sauce for a more dynamic berry flavor.
5. Caramel Apple Cranberry Cake
   Drizzle caramel sauce over the apple pie filling before adding the cake mix. The caramel will create a gooey, sweet layer as it bakes.
6. Gluten-Free Option
   Use a gluten-free yellow cake mix to make the dessert suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
7. Granola Topping
   Replace the nuts with granola for a chewy, sweet topping. Choose a granola mix with dried fruit or cinnamon for added flavor.
8. Cranberry Orange Almond Cake
   Add sliced almonds instead of walnuts and use orange-flavored cake mix (if available) for a delicious cranberry-orange-almond combination.
9. Coconut Lover’s Cake
   Sprinkle 1/2 cup of shredded sweetened coconut over the cake mix before adding the butter. The coconut will toast as it bakes, adding a tropical touch.
10. Savory-Sweet Variation
    Mix in a small amount of crumbled cooked bacon with the walnuts for a salty, savory twist that complements the sweetness of the cake.

Try more of our recipes:

Pandoro Semifreddo Recipe: A Luxurious, No-Bake Dessert for Special Occasions! Cinnamon Seduction: The Treat That Turns Kitchens into Battlegrounds of Deliciousness! The Insanely Indulgent Hawaiian Pie That’s Worth Every Single Calorie Blonde Ambition: The Holiday Bars That Made Santa Ditch His Cookies!