Slow Cooker 3-Ingredient Apple Cinnamon Dump Cake

Step 3: Sprinkle the Cake Mix

Take your dry yellow cake mix and evenly sprinkle it over the apple layer. Do not mix—this “dump” method ensures the cake forms a golden, slightly crisp top while the apples stay tender underneath.

Step 4: Add Butter

Slice the butter into thin pats or melt it briefly in the microwave. Place the butter evenly over the dry cake mix. These butter pieces will melt as the slow cooker heats, creating the luscious cake texture and buttery flavor that binds the dessert together.

Step 5: Cook

Cover the slow cooker and set it to high for 2 to 3 hours, or low for 4 to 5 hours. Resist the urge to lift the lid during cooking, as the trapped steam helps the cake cook evenly. The cake is done when the top is set and slightly golden, and the apples underneath are bubbly.

Step 6: Serve

Once cooked, turn off the slow cooker and let it cool for 5–10 minutes. Scoop generous portions onto plates or bowls. For an indulgent touch, top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Tips for the Perfect Dump Cake

• Texture matters: For a slightly crispier top, carefully broil the cooked cake for 2–3 minutes in the oven after slow cooking.
• Spice it up: Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice to the apple layer for more depth.
• Fruit variations: This recipe works beautifully with other canned fruits like peaches, cherries, or mixed berries.
• Portion control: This recipe serves 6–8, but it can be halved for a smaller slow cooker.

Why This Recipe Works

The magic of this 3-ingredient dump cake lies in its simplicity. The apples provide natural sweetness and moisture, the cake mix forms the tender crust, and the butter ties everything together. Using a slow cooker means you don’t have to heat up the kitchen, and the long, gentle cooking process develops rich flavors and a comforting aroma that fills your home.

Final Thoughts

The Slow Cooker 3-Ingredient Apple Cinnamon Dump Cake is a testament to how minimal effort can yield maximum flavor. It’s quick, convenient, and comforting—perfect for busy weeknights, holidays, or whenever you crave a warm, sweet dessert. With just three ingredients and a slow cooker, you can create a dessert that tastes like it took hours, all while keeping it stress-free and delicious.

Serve warm, serve cozy, and enjoy every bite of this effortless homemade delight.

If you want, I can also create a short, easy cheat sheet version of this recipe that you could pin in your kitchen for quick reference. Do you want me to do that?