Let Them Eat (Healthy) Cake

As the weather cools down, you may notice an upswing in cravings for warm, sweet treats. But rather than reach for something out of alignment with your health, here’s a seasonal treat you can easily whip up without much time or effort: the dump cake.

Yes, Epicurious has called it “by far the worst name in the history of desserts.” But here’s why this lazy-but-delicious Internet sensation is sweeping households across the nation: You literally just dump a few ingredients into a pan and bake them. No need to clear off counter space for multiple mixing bowls or track liquids versus solids. You satisfy a dessert craving in less time than it takes to watch an episode of Game of Thrones.

Watch: How to make a peach cobbler dump cake.

But not all dump cakes are created equal.

This healthier version will yield a dessert (or breakfast!) with very little assembly that’s essentially a fun twist on baked apples, which are low in calories and high in fiber. Leave the apple skins on to double your fiber intake and keep it simple. (Some of the best apple varieties for baking include Fuji, Golden Delicious and Pink Lady.)

Use this recipe as a template for any dump cake you desire, as they are equally delicious with cranberries, pears or plums. Practice making them now and you’ll be a pro by the holidays.