Description
This effortless Southern dessert combines the tartness of fresh Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples with the warm, aromatic spices of a classic cake mix. Perfect for potlucks and family gatherings, it creates a buttery, golden crust that feels like a warm hug in every bite.
Ingredients
- 7-8 medium apples (Granny Smith and Honeycrisp recommended), peeled and sliced
- 1/2 cup granulated white sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 box (15.25 oz) spice cake mix
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, chilled and thinly sliced
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and thoroughly grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with butter.
- Peel and slice the apples into 1/4-inch pieces, then layer them evenly in the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Sprinkle the white sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg over the apples and toss gently to coat.
- Evenly distribute the dry spice cake mix over the apple layer, smoothing it with a spoon to ensure full coverage.
- Place the thin slices of cold butter across the top of the cake mix, covering as much surface area as possible.
- Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, checking halfway through to add small pieces of butter to any visible dry spots of cake mix.
- Remove from the oven when the top is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling; let rest for 15 minutes before serving.
Notes
To ensure the best texture, always use cold butter and slice it into very thin squares rather than melting it; this creates a more even, pastry-like crust rather than soggy patches. For a more varied texture, try mixing the apple varieties so some pieces soften completely while others retain a slight bite after baking.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 50 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American