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Ever crave the comforting flavors of carrot cake but don’t have the time for all the fuss? This Carrot Cake Dump Cake is your answer! Silky textures meet bold spices in this effortless dessert. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing unexpected guests, this recipe is inspired by the simplicity of home-style baking. Let’s dive into the magic of this delightful dish!
Why You’ll Love This Carrot Cake Dump Cake
This Carrot Cake Dump Cake is a game-changer! Here’s why you’ll absolutely adore it:
- Minimal Prep: Ready to bake in under 10 minutes.
- Effortless Baking: Just dump, spread, and bake!
- Budget-Friendly: Uses simple pantry staples.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone loves the taste of carrot cake.
- Less Cleanup: Fewer dishes than traditional carrot cake.
- Aromatic Delight: The spices fill your kitchen with a warm, inviting scent.
- Moist and Delicious: Melts in your mouth with every bite.
- Simple enough for your first try: Even if you’re a beginner baker, you’ll nail this!
It rekindles cozy family memories with its familiar flavors while offering a quick and easy baking experience. The aroma fills the kitchen, creating an irresistible atmosphere. This is truly an effortless dessert that delivers maximum flavor!
Ingredients Needed
Here’s what you’ll need for your Carrot Cake Dump Cake:
- 1 box (15.25 oz / 432g) carrot cake mix
- 1 can (20 oz / 567g) crushed pineapple, undrained
- 1 can (21 oz / 595g) apple pie filling
- 1 cup (227g) butter, melted
- 1 cup (100g) shredded coconut (optional)
- 1 cup (115g) chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
For the carrot cake mix, any brand will work. Ensure your apple pie filling is of good quality for the best flavor. Toast your pecans or walnuts lightly to unlock their flavor. Find shredded coconut in most baking aisles, or at your local health food store.
Essential Equipment List
Here’s the simple equipment you’ll need:
- 9×13 inch baking pan: For even baking.
- Large mixing bowl: To combine ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate measurements.
- Oven: For baking the dump cake.
A whisk or spatula will help you mix the melted butter evenly. No electric mixer is required!
Recipe Details
Scale up for a larger crowd; easily halve the recipe for a smaller family.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan to prevent sticking. This ensures your Carrot Cake Dump Cake releases easily after baking.
Step 2: Combine and Layer Ingredients
Pour the undrained crushed pineapple into the prepared baking pan. Next, spread the apple pie filling evenly over the pineapple. The moisture from the pineapple and apple pie filling will help keep the cake moist.
Step 3: Add the Cake Mix and Toppings
Sprinkle the dry carrot cake mix evenly over the apple pie filling. Then, drizzle the melted butter over the dry cake mix, ensuring it’s distributed as evenly as possible. If using, sprinkle shredded coconut and chopped pecans or walnuts over the top. Pro tip: Press the nuts lightly into the cake mix for even browning.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The edges should be slightly crisp and bubbly. Let the cake cool slightly before serving. CHECK OUT: Lemon Blueberry Yogurt Cake – A burst of fruity delight!
Tips for Success
Here are some tips to ensure your Carrot Cake Dump Cake turns out perfectly every time:
- Even Butter Distribution: Drizzle the melted butter evenly to prevent dry patches.
- Don’t Overbake: Check for doneness around 35 minutes to avoid a dry cake.
- Cooling Time: Let it cool slightly before serving for easier slicing.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake mix for extra warmth.
- Nut Allergy?: Omit the nuts or use sunflower seeds for a nut-free version.
Beginners, pre-measuring everything ensures a smoother baking process!
Variations & Substitutions
Customize your Carrot Cake Dump Cake with these fun twists:
- Cream Cheese Swirl: Dollop cream cheese over the top before baking for a tangy twist.
- Spice Cake Mix: Use a spice cake mix instead of carrot cake for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Different Fruit: Experiment with other canned fruits like peaches or pears.
- Dairy-Free: Use melted coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version.
Honey can replace sugar, but remember it’s sweeter and stickier.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings with Carrot Cake Dump Cake
Elevate your Carrot Cake Dump Cake experience with these serving suggestions:
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that complements the warm spices.
- Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, adding a touch of sweetness.
- Caramel Drizzle: Adds a rich, decadent flavor.
- Hot Tea or Coffee: A comforting pairing for a cozy evening.

This is a fall feast stunner and pairs beautifully with mint lemonade, which cuts through the richness!
Health Benefits
While Carrot Cake Dump Cake is a treat, it does offer some nutritional benefits:
- Pineapple: Provides vitamin C and bromelain, an enzyme with anti-inflammatory properties.
- Apples: A good source of fiber, aiding digestion.
- Nuts: Offer healthy fats and protein (if included).
Fiber aids digestion while the nuts provide fuel! One serving adds vitamins and minerals to your diet!
Storage & Reheating
Keep your Carrot Cake Dump Cake fresh with these storage tips:
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes, or until warmed through. Cool fully before sealing to prevent sogginess.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Avoid a Soggy Cake?
Ensure the butter is distributed evenly and don’t overbake. Using the correct pan size also helps!
Can I Use Fresh Pineapple?
Yes, but make sure to chop it finely. Canned pineapple is recommended for its moisture content.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
What If I Don’t Have Carrot Cake Mix?
You can use a spice cake mix and add shredded carrots and extra spices.
Can I Double the Recipe?
Yes, but you will need to use two 9×13 inch pans, watch the cook time.
Nutritional Information
Approximate nutritional information per serving: 450 cal, 20g fat/serving. Exact stats depend on the specific ingredients and brands used.
- Carbs: 50g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 20g
Sweet Endings: More Delectable Dishes to Explore
Craving more simple desserts? Try these gems!
- Rhubarb Dump Cake – A tangy and sweet treat that’s just as easy to make.
- Pecan Pie Dump Cake – Get the rich taste of pecan pie with minimal effort.
- Pineapple Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting – A classic recipe with a tangy twist.

YOU MIGHT LOVE: Carrot Cake Oatmeal Bake – For a healthier start to your day with carrot cake flavors.
Conclusion
This Carrot Cake Dump Cake is fast, flavorful, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whip it up tonight—tag us with your masterpiece! Share this recipe with your friends and family who would love it! Join our vibrant community on Facebook and Pinterest for daily recipe inspiration, cooking tips, and more tasty ideas! Happy cooking! Let us know how it goes—comment below!

Carrot Cake Dump Cake
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
The easiest Carrot Cake Dump Cake recipe you’ll ever make! Ready in minutes with simple ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1 box (15.25 oz / 432g) carrot cake mix
- 1 can (20 oz / 567g) crushed pineapple, undrained
- 1 can (21 oz / 595g) apple pie filling
- 1 cup (227g) butter, melted
- 1 cup (100g) shredded coconut (optional)
- 1 cup (115g) chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- Step 2: Pour crushed pineapple into the pan, followed by the apple pie filling. Spread evenly.
- Step 3: Sprinkle the dry carrot cake mix evenly over the fruit.
- Step 4: Drizzle melted butter over the cake mix. Sprinkle with coconut and nuts, if using.
- Step 5: Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Step 6: Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Tip: Ensure butter is distributed evenly to avoid dry patches.
- Variation: Add a dollop of cream cheese for a tangy twist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 40g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: carrot cake, dump cake, easy dessert, baking, pineapple, apple pie filling