Ah, the smell of fresh apples and warm spices wafting through the air! It takes me back to cozy family gatherings, where desserts like this Smoked Apple Dump Cake stole the show. This recipe is not only simple but also a delightful treat that’s sure to create sweet memories. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can whip it up and impress your friends and family!
Why You’ll Love Smoked Apple Dump Cake
- Fast
- Easy
- Giftable
- Crowd-pleasing
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this tasty dessert:
- 2 cans (21 ounces each) apple pie filling: The star of the show, bringing sweetness and a touch of nostalgia.
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) yellow cake mix: This adds a fluffy texture and balances the flavors perfectly.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted: Richness is key here; it helps everything meld together.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: A warm spice that elevates the apple flavor.
- 1 cup chopped pecans (optional): For a delightful crunch, but feel free to skip if you prefer.
- Vanilla ice cream (for serving, optional): Because what’s better than warm cake with a scoop of creamy ice cream?
How to Make Smoked Apple Dump Cake
Let’s get started! Follow these easy steps to create your delicious dump cake:
- Preheat your smoker to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for achieving that perfect smoky flavor.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the apple pie filling and ground cinnamon. Spread the mixture evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the apple filling. No need to mix; just let it sit on top!
- Drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix, ensuring it is evenly distributed. This will create a beautiful, golden crust.
- If using, sprinkle the chopped pecans on top of the butter layer. This adds a lovely crunch.
- Place the baking dish in the smoker and cook for 1 hour, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Remove from the smoker and let cool slightly before serving. Patience is key here!
- Serve warm, optionally topped with vanilla ice cream. Trust me, it’s heavenly!
Substitutions & Additions
If you’re feeling adventurous, here are some swaps and upgrades you can try:
- Use homemade apple filling for a fresher taste.
- Swap the yellow cake mix for spice cake mix for an extra kick of flavor.
- Add some dried cranberries or raisins for a fruity twist.
- Try using other nuts like walnuts or almonds instead of pecans.
Tips for Success
Here are some tips to ensure your dump cake turns out perfectly:
- Make sure the butter is evenly drizzled to prevent dry spots.
- Keep an eye on the cake as it cooks; smokers can vary in temperature.
- If preparing for a gathering, you can assemble the cake in advance and smoke it right before serving.
How to Store Smoked Apple Dump Cake
Got leftovers? Here’s how to store them:
- Let the cake cool completely before covering it.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use a microwave for a quick fix.
FAQs
Can I use fresh apples instead of canned pie filling?
Absolutely! Just slice fresh apples and mix them with sugar and cinnamon for a homemade filling.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it up to the baking step and refrigerate until you’re ready to smoke it.
What if I don’t have a smoker?
You can bake it in a conventional oven at the same temperature for a similar result.
There you have it! A delicious and easy recipe for Smoked Apple Dump Cake that’s perfect for any occasion. For more delicious recipes, check out Apple Pie Biscuits or the ultimate guide to Christmas chocolate chip cookies for treats you will love!
Don’t forget to follow us on Pinterest for more tasty ideas and inspiration!

Smoked Apple Dump Cake
Equipment
- smoker
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
For the Smoked Apple Dump Cake
- 2 cans apple pie filling 21 ounces each
- 1 box yellow cake mix 15.25 ounces
- 1 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 cup chopped pecans optional
For Serving
- vanilla ice cream optional
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your smoker to 350°F (175°C).
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the apple pie filling and ground cinnamon. Spread the mixture evenly in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Step 3: Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the apple filling. No need to mix; just let it sit on top!
- Step 4: Drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
- Step 5: If using, sprinkle the chopped pecans on top of the butter layer.
- Step 6: Place the baking dish in the smoker and cook for 1 hour, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Step 7: Remove from the smoker and let cool slightly before serving.
- Step 8: Serve warm, optionally topped with vanilla ice cream.
