Simple Apple Crunch
A warm, comforting apple crumble with a crunchy cake topping, perfect for fall gatherings or family dessert. Sweet apples complemented by a buttery crust.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Put half of the dry cake mix in a greased 9 x 13-inch baking pan.
- Spoon the apple pie filling evenly over the cake mix in the pan.
- Sprinkle the remaining cake mix over the apple filling.
- Bake until the apples are soft and the topping is golden brown, about 30 minutes.
- Serve warm with whipped topping or ice cream on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider using a spice cake mix with a hint of nutmeg, which complements the apples beautifully. If you don't have lemon flavoring, you can substitute with a bit more lemon juice. Additionally, you can replace the apple pie filling with homemade applesauce or another fruit filling for a different flavor profile. This recipe is also a great base for adding nuts or oats for extra crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm and top with whipped topping or a scoop of ice cream for a delightful contrast to the warm, spiced apples. This dessert pairs beautifully with a drizzle of Nutmeg Sauce(For Donut Pudding) for added flavor. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a light salad or a cup of coffee for a comforting finish to your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 30 seconds or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until hot, ensuring a crispy topping.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Simple Apple Crunch contains roughly 97 calories, with 2g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 6g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh apples instead of canned pie filling?
Yes, you can use fresh apples! Just slice about 6-8 medium apples, toss them with sugar, cinnamon, and a bit of lemon juice to mimic the flavor of apple pie filling. Adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the apples used. This will give a fresher taste and a delightful texture.
What if I don't have a 9 x 13-inch pan?
If you don't have a 9 x 13-inch baking pan, you can use two 8-inch square pans or a larger round baking dish. Just keep an eye on the baking time, as the depth of the batter may change how long it takes to cook through. Ensure the topping is golden and the apples are soft before removing from the oven.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the layers ahead of time and assemble the dish, then cover and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if coming straight from the fridge. This makes it convenient for gatherings or busy weeknights.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).