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Apple Cobbler Recipe with Cake Mix

This easy Apple Cobbler with Cake Mix is a cozy, comforting dessert that takes just minutes to put together. I used canned apple pie filling and a box of yellow cake mix to keep it simple, yet incredibly delicious. It bakes into a golden, buttery topping over sweet, spiced apples—like a shortcut version of homemade cobbler! Perfect for fall or any time you're craving a warm treat. Just top it with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, and you're good to go. No mixing bowls required—just dump, bake, and enjoy!
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American Comfort Food
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cans 21 oz each apple pie filling (or 4 cups cooked spiced apples)
  • 1 box 15.25 oz yellow cake mix
  • ½ cup butter 1 stick, melted, salt
  • 1 tsp cinnamon optional, but I love the flavor boost
  • ¼ tsp nutmeg optional
  • ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts optional topping for crunch
  • Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for serving – optional but highly recommended

Equipment

  • 9×13-inch baking dish
  • Mixing bowl
  • Can opener (if using canned apples)
  • Spatula or spoon
  • Measuring cups
  • Oven

Method
 

Step 1: Preheat the oven
  1. I start by setting my oven to 350°F (175°C). That gives me time to assemble everything while it warms up.
Step 2: Layer the apples
  1. I spread the apple pie filling evenly in the bottom of my greased 9×13-inch baking dish. If I want a little spice, I sprinkle in the cinnamon and nutmeg right on top of the apples and stir gently.
Step 3: Add the cake mix
  1. I pour the dry yellow cake mix right over the apple layer. I don’t mix it—just spread it out evenly.
Step 4: Add melted butter
  1. I slowly drizzle the melted butter across the entire cake mix. It’s okay if there are some dry spots; they’ll crisp up beautifully in the oven.
Step 5: Optional nut topping
  1. When I’m feeling fancy, I add chopped pecans or walnuts on top. They add a lovely crunch.
Step 6: Bake to golden perfection
  1. I pop the cobbler into the oven and bake it for about 45 minutes. It’s ready when the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.

Notes

If you prefer a more gooey and moist texture, I recommend using ¾ cup of butter instead of ½ cup. I’ve tried both, and the extra richness really makes it feel indulgent. Just be sure to pour it evenly.