Dump Cake with Apricots and Almonds: A Fruity, Nutty Delight

Dump cake with apricots and almonds is a simple yet elegant dessert that combines juicy apricots, buttery cake, and crunchy almonds into one irresistible treat. Perfect for spring and summer, it’s a no-mix, no-fuss recipe that bakes up beautifully with minimal effort.

I first tried making this dessert during apricot season, when I had more fruit than I knew what to do with. A neighbor suggested a dump cake recipe, and after adding sliced almonds for texture, it quickly became a family favorite. The tangy apricots soften into a jam-like layer as they bake, while the cake mix and almonds create a golden, crunchy topping. Served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, it feels both rustic and indulgent—ideal for potlucks, dinner parties, or a cozy night at home.

In this article, you’ll learn how to make dump cake with apricots and almonds step-by-step, plus tips for using fresh or canned fruit, getting a perfectly crisp topping, and storing it for later.

Why Dump Cake with Apricots and Almonds Works

Sweet and Tangy Flavors in Perfect Balance

The beauty of dump cake with apricots and almonds lies in how its flavors naturally complement each other. Apricots have a unique tartness that wakes up the palate, and when baked, their sharp edge mellows into a warm, jam-like sweetness. As they release their juices in the oven, the fruit creates a luscious, gooey base that pairs perfectly with the buttery, crisp cake topping.

The sliced almonds add another layer of complexity. They toast beautifully during baking, creating a delicate crunch and a nutty aroma that enhances the apricots’ fruity brightness. Together, the sweet-tart fruit, golden cake layer, and lightly caramelized almonds create a dessert that feels balanced and indulgent without being overly sugary. Served warm, every bite has a contrast of textures: soft fruit, tender cake, and crisp nuts—making it a dessert that’s both comforting and refined.

A No-Fail Recipe for Any Skill Level

Another reason this dessert is a favorite is its simplicity. With dump cake, there’s no need for mixing bowls, electric mixers, or elaborate steps. You simply layer the apricots in a baking dish, scatter cake mix over the fruit, drizzle melted butter, top with almonds, and bake. The oven does all the work, and even with minimal effort, the end result looks and tastes impressive enough for dinner parties.

This recipe is also incredibly versatile. Use fresh apricots when they’re in season for the best flavor, or swap in canned apricots for convenience. Frozen apricots are also a good option—just be sure to thaw and drain them before using. Want a sweeter dessert? Toss the fruit with a little sugar or add a handful of white chocolate chips before baking. Prefer extra crunch? Double the almonds or mix in chopped pecans.

Its adaptability, combined with its foolproof method, makes this dessert ideal for both beginner bakers and seasoned home cooks looking for a quick, crowd-pleasing recipe. Whether you’re preparing it for a casual weeknight dessert or a holiday table, it’s a no-fail treat that always impresses.

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How to Make Dump Cake with Apricots and Almonds

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things simple while delivering rich, fruity flavor and a perfect crunch. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Apricots (4 cups): Fresh apricots work best when they’re ripe but still slightly firm. If fresh isn’t available, canned apricots in juice (not heavy syrup) or thawed frozen apricots are excellent substitutes.
• Granulated sugar (½ cup): Optional, but helpful if your apricots are very tart or not fully ripe.
• Yellow cake mix (1 box, 15.25 oz): This creates the buttery, crisp topping. You can swap for white or vanilla cake mix if you prefer a lighter flavor.
• Unsalted butter (½ cup, melted): Essential for binding the cake mix and ensuring a golden-brown crust.
• Sliced almonds (½ cup): These toast beautifully while baking, adding a nutty crunch and elegant finish.
• Cinnamon (optional, ½ tsp): A pinch of cinnamon adds subtle warmth, especially if you’re using canned fruit.

All of these are pantry staples or easily found at grocery stores, and they combine to make a dessert that feels homemade without the hassle.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly butter or spray a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Layer the apricots: Arrange apricots evenly in the dish. If you’re using canned fruit, include just enough juice to keep it moist without making it watery. Sprinkle sugar over the top if your fruit needs added sweetness.
3. Add the cake mix: Evenly spread the dry cake mix directly over the apricots. Do not stir—this layering is key to creating a gooey fruit base and crisp topping.
4. Pour the butter: Slowly drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix, covering as much of the surface as possible for even browning.
5. Add almonds: Sprinkle sliced almonds on top for added crunch and a pretty finish.
6. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the fruit layer is bubbling around the edges.
7. Cool and serve: Let the cake rest for about 10 minutes to allow the fruit layer to settle. Serve warm as is, or pair it with vanilla ice cream or a spoonful of whipped cream for a richer treat.

Pro Tip: If using fresh apricots, tossing them in a little lemon juice before baking helps keep their color vibrant and adds a touch of brightness to the flavor.

Storing and Serving Dump Cake with Apricots and Almonds

How to Store It Properly

Keeping your dump cake with apricots and almonds fresh is easy with the right steps. After baking, allow the cake to cool completely to room temperature. Once cooled, cover your dump cake with apricots and almonds tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. Stored this way, it will remain delicious for up to 4 days.

If you want to keep it longer, freeze your dump cake with apricots and almonds in individual portions. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen, it stays good for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10–15 minutes to bring back its crisp, buttery topping.

Serving Suggestions for the Perfect Dessert

Serving dump cake with apricots and almonds warm is the best way to enjoy its gooey fruit layer and crunchy almond topping. Pair it with:

• Vanilla ice cream: Its creamy texture pairs beautifully with the tangy apricot base.
• Whipped cream: Adds a light, airy sweetness that balances the rich cake layer.
• Extra almonds: Sprinkle more toasted almonds over the top to enhance its nutty crunch.
• Seasonal garnishes: Fresh mint or a few berries can brighten up dump cake with apricots and almonds, making it even more inviting for summer gatherings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing dump cake with apricots and almonds, avoid these mistakes for flawless results:

• Mixing the layers: Do not stir the fruit and cake mix together. The signature texture of dump cake with apricots and almonds comes from keeping them separate.
• Uneven butter drizzle: Pour melted butter evenly to prevent dry patches in your dump cake with apricots and almonds topping.
• Skipping sugar for tart apricots: If your apricots are extra tangy, sugar helps balance the flavors beautifully.

By storing it properly, serving it warm with simple accompaniments, and steering clear of these errors, your apricot almond dump cake will come out perfectly—gooey, buttery, nutty, and absolutely irresistible.

Where to Buy Ingredients for Dump Cake with Apricots and Almonds

Fresh and Seasonal Apricots

The key to a great dump cake with apricots and almonds is ripe, flavorful apricots. In season, you’ll find them in the produce section of grocery stores, farmers’ markets, or local fruit stands. Look for apricots that are slightly soft to the touch, with vibrant orange or rosy skin. If fresh isn’t available, canned apricots in juice or frozen apricots (thawed and drained) are excellent alternatives and are stocked year-round in most supermarkets.

Pantry Staples and Almonds

Yellow cake mix and sugar are common pantry staples easily found in the baking aisle. For the almond topping, pick up pre-sliced almonds from the baking or snack section. If you prefer extra flavor, lightly toast the almonds at home before adding them to your dump cake with apricots and almonds for an even richer taste.

Online Shopping Options

If you prefer convenience, stores like Amazon Fresh, Walmart Grocery, and Instacart make it simple to order all the ingredients for your dump cake with apricots and almonds. Specialty markets or organic grocers like Whole Foods often carry premium cake mixes, organic butter, and high-quality nuts for a more gourmet version of this dessert.

Conclusion

Dump cake with apricots and almonds is the perfect mix of fruity, nutty, and buttery goodness, all in one effortless dessert. With its tart apricot base, golden cake topping, and toasted almond crunch, it’s a treat that feels both rustic and elegant. Whether you’re serving it warm with ice cream or enjoying a chilled slice the next day, this dessert is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Simple to prepare, adaptable to any season, and always delicious, this dump cake with apricots and almonds deserves a spot in your recipe rotation.

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