The aroma of warm, buttery cake mingling with the tart sweetness of cranberries is enough to make anyone weak in the knees. Imagine sinking your fork into a delightful slice of Cranberry Dump Cake, where each bite delivers a burst of flavor that dances on your palate like a sugar-fueled toddler at a birthday party. Whether you’re preparing for Thanksgiving or simply trying to impress friends at a potluck, this dessert is not just food; it’s an experience.
There’s something nostalgic about dump cakes that brings me back to family gatherings. I remember my grandma whipping up her signature dish while we all tried (and failed) to stay out of the kitchen. The anticipation grew as we watched it bake, the intoxicating scent wafting throughout the house, promising something delicious was on the way. Now, I’m here to share that love with you and show you how easy it is to create your own culinary masterpiece!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Cranberry Dump Cake requires minimal effort and time—perfect for busy bakers!
- Its sweet-tart flavor profile makes it a crowd favorite at any gathering.
- Visually stunning with its vibrant red cranberries, it’s sure to catch eyes at the dessert table.
- Versatile enough to serve warm with ice cream or cold as a refreshing treat!
Ingredients for Cranberry Dump Cake
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Cranberries: Fresh or frozen work well; just be sure they’re not sweetened if you want that tangy punch.
- Yellow Cake Mix: A classic choice that provides a light and fluffy base; feel free to use gluten-free if needed.
- Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness and helps create that perfectly golden crust.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar balances the tartness of the cranberries; adjust according to your taste preferences.
- Water: Just enough to help meld everything together; don’t skip this step!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cranberry Dump Cake
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and grease it with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Cranberries
Spread those glorious cranberries evenly over the bottom of your greased baking dish. If you’re using frozen ones, there’s no need to thaw them; they’ll work their magic as they bake.
Step 3: Add Sugar
Sprinkle granulated sugar over the cranberries. This will help enhance their natural sweetness and create that delightful contrast between sweet and tart.
Step 4: Pour on the Cake Mix
Next comes the fun part—carefully pour the dry yellow cake mix over the cranberries. Don’t mix it in—just let it sit there looking pretty while you get ready for step five.
Step 5: Melt That Butter
Melt your unsalted butter (about one stick) in a microwave-safe bowl or on the stove until it’s nice and liquidy. Then drizzle it evenly over the top of the cake mix. It’s like giving your dump cake a luxurious bath!
Step 6: Bake It Up
Pop that beauty into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 50-60 minutes or until golden brown on top. When it’s done, you’ll know because your kitchen will smell like heaven!
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or allow it to cool and enjoy it as is. Remember, every bite is bursting with flavor—just like those family gatherings from my childhood!
You Must Know
- This delightful Cranberry Dump Cake is not just a dessert; it’s a sweet experience that requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor.
- With its warm, fruity aroma and delectable crunch, it’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, mix your cranberries with sugar and sprinkle them in the bottom of a baking dish. Top with cake mix and pour melted butter over it. Bake until golden brown for perfect results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your Cranberry Dump Cake by swapping cranberries for blueberries or cherries. Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth, or throw in some chopped nuts for extra crunch. The options are endless!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop it into the microwave for a quick warm-up or place it back in the oven until heated through to maintain its crispy top.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh cranberries for the best flavor, but frozen ones work too—just don’t thaw them first!
- Ensure the butter is evenly distributed for even baking.
- Don’t skip letting it cool slightly before serving; this helps set the cake.
I remember the first time I made this Cranberry Dump Cake. My friends devoured it within minutes, and someone even declared it “life-changing.” Who knew such simple ingredients could bring so much joy?
FAQs:
What is a Cranberry Dump Cake?
A Cranberry Dump Cake is a simple dessert that combines fresh or canned cranberries with cake mix. It’s called a “dump” cake because you literally dump the ingredients into a baking dish without mixing them. The result is a deliciously tart and sweet treat that has a crispy topping and a fruity filling. This easy recipe is perfect for holiday gatherings or any time you crave a comforting dessert.
How do I store leftover Cranberry Dump Cake?
To store leftover Cranberry Dump Cake, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you want to enjoy it later, consider freezing individual portions. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw and reheat in the oven for that freshly baked taste.
Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?
Yes, you can definitely use frozen cranberries in your Cranberry Dump Cake! Just make sure not to thaw them before adding to the recipe. Frozen cranberries will add moisture and create a deliciously tart flavor. They may take slightly longer to bake than fresh cranberries, so keep an eye on your cake as it cooks. You’ll still enjoy that delightful texture and taste.
What can I serve with Cranberry Dump Cake?
Cranberry Dump Cake pairs beautifully with various toppings and accompaniments. Consider serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or dollops of whipped cream for an indulgent treat. A drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce can also enhance its flavors. For added texture, sprinkle some chopped nuts on top before serving, creating a delightful balance between sweet and crunchy.
Conclusion for Cranberry Dump Cake:
In summary, the Cranberry Dump Cake is an easy and delightful dessert that brings together the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of cake mix. It requires minimal effort, making it ideal for busy bakers who want something special without extensive preparation. Whether served warm with ice cream or enjoyed on its own, this dessert is sure to impress at any gathering. Don’t hesitate to try this mouthwatering recipe; your family and friends will love it!
Cranberry Dump Cake
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in the warm, buttery goodness of Cranberry Dump Cake, where tart cranberries meet a fluffy cake mix for a truly delightful dessert experience.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh or frozen unsweetened cranberries
- 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick, melted)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Evenly spread the cranberries over the bottom of the greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle the granulated sugar over the cranberries to enhance their sweetness.
- Carefully pour the dry yellow cake mix over the cranberries without mixing it in.
- Melt the unsalted butter and drizzle it evenly over the top of the cake mix.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
- Enjoy warm, optionally topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider mixing in a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg with the sugar. You can substitute cranberries with blueberries or cherries for a different twist.
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