Apple Pie Filling Cake Mix Recipe: The Easiest Fall Dessert EVER!

Fall is in the air, and what better way to celebrate than with the comforting flavors of apple pie? But let’s be honest, sometimes we crave that warm, spiced apple goodness without the fuss of making a pie from scratch. That’s where this incredible Apple Pie Filling Cake Mix recipe comes in! It’s unbelievably easy, incredibly delicious, and practically foolproof. Imagine a moist, tender cake bursting with juicy apple pie filling, all made with just a handful of ingredients. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or any time you need a quick and satisfying dessert. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this simple yet sensational treat!

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe is a game-changer because it leverages the convenience of a cake mix to create a delicious and comforting dessert with minimal effort. Here’s why it works so well:

• Cake Mix Magic: Using a cake mix provides a consistent base for the cake, ensuring a tender and moist texture. It also significantly reduces the number of ingredients and steps required.
• Apple Pie Filling Power: The star of the show, apple pie filling, adds all the classic apple pie flavors – cinnamon, nutmeg, and juicy apple chunks – directly into the cake. It infuses the cake with moisture and that irresistible apple pie taste.
• Simple Add-Ins: The addition of eggs and oil helps to enrich the cake and create a perfect crumb. These ingredients work with the cake mix to bind everything together and provide the ideal texture.
• Customizable Crunch: The optional streusel topping (or even just a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar) adds a delightful textural contrast to the soft cake, making it even more irresistible.
• One-Bowl Wonder: Minimal cleanup is always a win! This recipe requires just one bowl for the cake batter, making it even more appealing for busy bakers.

Ingredients

• 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
• 1 can (21 oz) apple pie filling
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• Optional Streusel Topping:
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Optional: Cinnamon Sugar for sprinkling

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. This prevents the cake from sticking and ensures easy removal.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, apple pie filling, eggs, and vegetable oil.
3. Mix Well: Using an electric mixer or a sturdy whisk, mix the ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough cake. A few lumps are okay.
4. Prepare Streusel Topping (Optional): In a separate bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon for the streusel. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
5. Pour and Sprinkle: Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. If using, sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the batter. Alternatively, you can sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top.
6. Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.
7. Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before cutting and serving. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips for Success

Here are a few tips to ensure your Apple Pie Filling Cake Mix turns out perfectly every time:

• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, leading to a tough cake. Mix the batter until just combined.
• Use Room Temperature Eggs: Room temperature eggs incorporate more easily into the batter, resulting in a smoother and more even texture.
• Adjust Baking Time: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on the cake and adjust the baking time as needed. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
• Streusel Variations: Get creative with your streusel topping! Add chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts are great), oats, or even a pinch of salt for a more complex flavor.
• Cake Mix Swaps: While yellow cake mix is the classic choice, you can experiment with other flavors like spice cake mix or butter pecan cake mix for a different twist.
• Apple Pie Filling Alternatives: While apple pie filling is the star here, you can experiment with other fruit fillings like cherry or blueberry for a different flavor profile. Just be sure to adjust the baking time as needed.
• Add a Glaze: For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle a simple powdered sugar glaze over the cooled cake. Mix powdered sugar with a little milk or apple cider until you reach your desired consistency.

Storage Instructions

To store your Apple Pie Filling Cake Mix, follow these instructions:

• Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: For longer storage, store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: You can also freeze the cake for up to 2 months. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about this recipe:

• Can I use a different size pan? Yes, you can use an 8×8 inch square pan, but you may need to adjust the baking time. Check for doneness after 25 minutes.
• Can I make this gluten-free? Yes, use a gluten-free yellow cake mix. You may also need to add a binder like xanthan gum to improve the texture.
• Can I use sugar-free apple pie filling? Yes, you can use sugar-free apple pie filling to reduce the sugar content of the cake.
• Can I add nuts to the cake batter? Yes, you can add chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts) to the cake batter for added texture and flavor.
• What can I serve with this cake? This cake is delicious on its own, but it’s also great served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Conclusion

This Apple Pie Filling Cake Mix recipe is a true winner! It’s quick, easy, and incredibly delicious, making it the perfect dessert for any occasion. The combination of the moist cake, the juicy apple pie filling, and the optional streusel topping is simply irresistible. So go ahead, give this recipe a try and experience the magic of effortless baking. You’ll be amazed at how something so simple can taste so good. Enjoy!