Cinnamon Toast Crunch Apple Dump Cake Recipe

Name: Cinnamon Toast Crunch Apple Dump Cake
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 12
Ingredients: 4 cups cinnamon toast crunch casserole; 2 (21 ounce) cans apple pie filling; 1 (14.25 ounce) box white cake mix; 1 1/2 sticks butter, cut into 20 pieces; 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Cook Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe yields 12 servings.

4 cups Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal, plus extra for topping
2 (21 ounce) cans apple pie filling
1 (14.25 ounce) box white cake mix
1 sticks butter, cut into 20 pieces
cup chopped pecans (optional)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350F (175C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Spread the Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Evenly layer the apple pie filling over the cereal, making sure not to mix the layers together.
Sprinkle the cake mix evenly over the apples, covering them as thoroughly as possible.
Top the cake mix with slices of butter, placing them evenly across the surface.
If desired, sprinkle chopped pecans over the top for added crunch and flavor.
Top with additional cereal if you want extra crunch. Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.
Allow the dish to cool for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy your warm, crispy dessert!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrition Information	Amount
Calories	370
Total Fat	17g
Saturated Fat	9g
Cholesterol	31mg
Sodium	325mg
Total Carbohydrates	54g
Dietary Fiber	2g
Total Sugars	36g
Protein	3g
Vitamin C	5mg
Calcium	113mg
Iron	3mg
Potassium	103mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. ** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

History of the Dish: The Cinnamon Toast Crunch Apple Dump Cake is a modern twist on the classic American "dump cake" dessert, which dates back to the mid-20th century. A "dump cake" is a simple dessert where ingredients are literally "dumped" into a baking pan without mixing. Originally, these cakes were made with canned fruit, boxed cake mixes, and butter, creating a fast and foolproof treat. The inclusion of Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal in this version adds a deliciously nostalgic flavor, drawing inspiration from the popular breakfast cereal that has been a staple in American kitchens since 1984.

Regional Variations: While dump cakes are beloved throughout the United States, different regions have their own unique takes on the dessert. In the South, for example, pecans are often added to enhance the flavor, as seen in this recipe. The use of cinnamon-flavored cereal in this version is particularly popular in areas where sugary cereals like Cinnamon Toast Crunch are a beloved breakfast choice. Other regions may use local fruits or specific cake mixes, but the core concept remains the same: easy, quick, and delicious.

Differences from Similar Dishes: The Cinnamon Toast Crunch Apple Dump Cake stands out from other similar desserts like apple cobbler or apple crisp due to its unique combination of cereal and cake mix. Traditional apple crisp recipes use oats and butter as the topping, whereas dump cakes are more akin to a cake with fruit filling underneath. What makes this particular recipe special is the use of Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal, which gives the dessert an extra cinnamon kick and a crunchy texture that contrasts with the soft, warm apples.

Where It's Typically Served: This dessert is perfect for casual gatherings, potlucks, or family dinners. Its ease of preparation makes it a favorite for busy home cooks looking to impress their guests without spending hours in the kitchen. It is often served warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Its ideal for autumn celebrations like Thanksgiving or apple-picking season, but it can be enjoyed year-round as a comfort food treat.

Interesting Facts: While dump cakes may seem like a contemporary invention, their roots can be traced back to the 1950s, when quick-and-easy dessert recipes began to rise in popularity. The term "dump cake" was coined because of the simplicity of the preparationingredients are simply dumped into a pan. The addition of Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal to this recipe gives it a unique twist, and its nostalgic appeal makes it especially popular with those who grew up enjoying the cereal for breakfast. In fact, many people use leftover cereal from their breakfast bowls as a convenient way to make this dessert!

FAQ about Cinnamon Toast Crunch Apple Dump Cake Recipe

To store leftover Cinnamon Toast Crunch Apple Dump Cake, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator. It can last up to 3 days when properly stored.

Yes, you can prepare the cake up to a day ahead of time. After assembling the ingredients, cover the dish tightly and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. Just bake it as usual when you're ready to serve.

Yes, you can freeze this dessert. After baking and allowing it to cool completely, cover it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.

Yes, you can substitute Cinnamon Toast Crunch with other cereals like Cheerios, Cornflakes, or even a granola. However, the flavor and texture will differ depending on the cereal you choose.

While the recipe is designed with apple pie filling, you can experiment with other canned fruit fillings such as peach, cherry, or blueberry. Keep in mind that different fruits will alter the flavor profile of the cake.

Yes, you can easily omit the chopped pecans if you're allergic or prefer to leave them out. The recipe will still be delicious without them.

If the cake mix appears dry on top after baking, it may be because the cake mix wasn't evenly distributed or the butter slices weren't placed properly on top. Make sure to sprinkle the cake mix evenly and place the butter pieces on top to ensure moisture.

To make this dessert even richer, you can serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Adding a drizzle of caramel or chocolate syrup would also enhance the flavor.

To prevent the butter from melting too much and creating a greasy texture, make sure to cut the butter into small, even pieces and distribute them evenly over the cake mix. The butter will melt into the cake as it bakes, creating a moist texture.

Comments

Dorothy Mitchell

04/30/2025 02:50:07 AM

I just came across a review from someone who wasn't a fan of store-bought angel food cake. I have to agree - store-bought versions can be pretty yucky. However, I want to recommend a fantastic alternative: the gluten-free angel food cake recipe from Carol Fenster. When baked in an angel food pan, it rises almost twice as high. This cake is incredibly delicious. Every time I make it for my friend who has severe gluten allergies, their whole family can't resist grabbing a slice with a big serrated knife and enjoying it on its own. It's honestly that good. I can only imagine how amazing it would taste with warm apples drizzled over it and a scoop of ice cream. I can't wait to try that combination. But I'll have to remember: "a moment on the lips, forever on the hips!" LOL.

Carolyn Brown

02/23/2023 07:41:27 PM

I followed the instructions for this recipe, but the end result was not as expected. The dish ended up with a layer of powdered cake mix on top. Next time, I will make the cake separately as directed on the box and pour it over the apple pie filling. As it stands, the current method is not appealing at all.

Elizabeth Harris

12/05/2022 05:44:25 PM

This dessert is incredibly simple to prepare and absolutely scrumptious! I see it as a comforting treat that warms my soul and fills me with joy.

Susan Young

12/27/2024 09:06:00 PM

This dessert was a complete disappointment, a waste of perfectly good ingredients. The cereal turned hard and chewy, making it inedible. Save yourself the time and money and steer clear of this recipe!