Ingredients
Filling and Toppings
- 42 ounces apple pie filling (2 – 21 ounce cans)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce, plus extra for topping
- 1 stick butter, thinly sliced, plus 1 additional tablespoon butter
Cake Mix
- 15.25 ounce box butter pecan cake mix
Instructions
- Prepare the Crockpot: Grease a 5 or 6-quart crockpot thoroughly to prevent sticking and set it aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
- Toast Pecans: Melt one tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped pecans and toast them for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are lightly toasted and aromatic. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Layer Apple Pie Filling: Pour the apple pie filling into the bottom of the greased crockpot and spread it evenly.
- Add Pecans and Caramel: Sprinkle the toasted pecans over the apple filling, reserving 1-2 tablespoons for garnish. Drizzle 1/2 cup of caramel sauce evenly over the pecans and filling layer.
- Top with Cake Mix and Butter: Evenly sprinkle the dry butter pecan cake mix over the entire mixture in the crockpot. Lay the thin slices of butter on top of the cake mix to help it bake into a rich, moist crust.
- Cook the Cake: Place 3 paper towels under the crockpot lid to absorb moisture and keep the topping from becoming soggy. Cook on high heat for 2-3 hours or on low heat for 4-6 hours. Check for doneness after 2 hours on high or 4 hours on low. The cake is done when the top is cooked through and the filling is bubbling.
- Serve: Spoon the warm caramel apple dump cake into bowls or plates. Top with reserved toasted pecans and drizzle with additional caramel sauce. Serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream to enhance the flavors.
Notes
- Using paper towels under the lid helps to absorb excess moisture, creating a better crust on the cake’s surface.
- Check the cake periodically after the initial cooking time to avoid overcooking or burning the topping.
- For added texture, feel free to substitute or add walnuts or other nuts instead of pecans.
- Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American