There’s something truly magical about the aroma of warm cranberry dump cake wafting through your home, instantly transporting you to a cozy setting filled with laughter and joy. Picture this: a crisp autumn afternoon, leaves crunching underfoot, and you’re nestled in your kitchen, the bubbling sounds of fruit mingling with sweet cake mix filling the air. This delightful dessert is not just a dish; it’s a memory-maker, perfect for family gatherings or those lazy Sunday afternoons when the only thing on your to-do list is to indulge in pure deliciousness.
Now, imagine pulling that golden-brown cake out of the oven, its surface shimmering with juicy cranberries peeking through like little red jewels. You know it’s going to be an experience—a burst of tartness from the cranberries paired with a buttery sweetness that will have you going back for seconds (and maybe thirds). Whether it’s Thanksgiving or just an excuse to enjoy something scrumptious, this cranberry dump cake delivers on flavor and comfort like no other.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This cranberry dump cake is incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor.
- Its delightful balance of tart cranberries and sweet cake makes it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
- The vibrant colors and aromas create a visually stunning treat that everyone will want to dive into.
- Perfect for holidays or as a cozy dessert any time of year!
Ingredients for Cranberry Dump Cake
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Cranberries: Opt for firm, bright cranberries; they should be plump and glossy for the best tart flavor.
- Cake Mix: Any yellow or white box cake mix will do; it’s your shortcut to making this dessert effortlessly tasty.
- Unsalted Butter: Melted butter adds richness; I recommend using real butter for optimal flavor.
- Sugar: Regular granulated sugar balances out the tartness of cranberries; adjust based on your taste preferences.
- Water: Just enough to help distribute flavors without making it too soggy; keep it simple!
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). Grab an oven-safe baking dish (a classic 9×13 works wonders) and grease it lightly with nonstick spray.
Step 2: Prepare Cranberries
In a mixing bowl, toss fresh cranberries with sugar until they’re evenly coated. This step enhances their natural sweetness while keeping that delightful tart kick.
Step 3: Assemble the Base
Spread the sugared cranberries evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. You want these beauties to be the star of the show!
Step 4: Add Cake Mix
Sprinkle dry cake mix over the cranberries evenly—no need to stir! Just let it sit there looking pretty while you melt some butter.
Step 5: Pour Butter Over Cake Mix
Drizzle melted butter all over the dry cake mix. Don’t worry if some parts look drier than others; this is part of its charm!
Step 6: Bake Away
Slide that masterpiece into your preheated oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes or until it’s golden brown and bubbly around the edges. The smell? Heavenly!
Transfer to plates and serve warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream—or just eat it straight from the pan if you’re feeling rebellious! You won’t regret it.
Now go ahead—let your inner baker shine and whip up this cranberry dump cake that will have friends begging for your secret!
You Must Know
- This delightful cranberry dump cake is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration in a dish.
- With its vibrant berries and decadent topping, it’s perfect for any gathering or cozy night in.
- Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to for both novice and seasoned bakers.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Then, layer the cranberry filling evenly in your baking dish before sprinkling the cake mix on top. Finally, drizzle melted butter over the mix and bake until bubbly and golden brown.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap cranberries for blueberries or cherries for a unique twist. You can also experiment with different cake mixes like spice or chocolate to enhance flavors. Adding nuts or oats on top can give an extra crunch!
Storing & Reheating
To store your cranberry dump cake, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 30 seconds or warm it in the oven until heated through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best texture, use fresh cranberries instead of canned ones; they provide a tartness that balances the sweetness beautifully.
- Remember to let the cake cool slightly before serving; this helps set those gooey layers just right.
- Lastly, serve with vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast!
I once made this cranberry dump cake for a holiday gathering, and everyone raved about it! My cousin even asked if I could make it every Thanksgiving from now on—talk about pressure!
FAQs :
What is Cranberry Dump Cake?
Cranberry Dump Cake is a simple dessert that combines fresh or canned cranberries with cake mix, butter, and often nuts or spices. This dish is known for its ease of preparation, requiring minimal mixing. You essentially “dump” the ingredients into a baking dish and let the oven do the work. The result is a warm, fruity cake with a crumbly topping that’s perfect for holiday gatherings.
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 extend its shelf life, consider freezing it. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can enjoy this delicious dessert later.
Can I customize my Cranberry Dump Cake?
Absolutely! Customizing your Cranberry Dump Cake is easy and fun. You can add other fruits like apples or pears for added flavor. Consider mixing in spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the taste further. For a richer texture, top it with crushed nuts or chocolate chips before baking. The versatility of this dessert allows you to create your unique version while still keeping it simple.
Is Cranberry Dump Cake suitable for dietary restrictions?
Cranberry Dump Cake can be adapted for various dietary restrictions with some modifications. For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free cake mix and ensure your other ingredients comply with gluten-free standards. To make it dairy-free, substitute butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free alternative. Always check ingredient labels to confirm they meet your dietary needs while enjoying this delightful dessert.
Conclusion for Cranberry Dump Cake :
Cranberry Dump Cake stands out as an effortless yet delicious dessert perfect for any occasion. With its simple preparation method, you can easily create a warm treat that brings joy to gatherings and celebrations. The cake’s flexibility allows room for customization, so feel free to experiment with flavors and ingredients that suit your preferences. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or as leftovers, this dessert is sure to satisfy your sweet cravings while making memories around the table.
Cranberry Dump Cake
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 people
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in a delightful Cranberry Dump Cake that combines tart cranberries with a buttery cake topping, creating a warm and comforting dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- Fresh Cranberries: 4 cups
- Granulated Sugar: 1 cup
- Yellow or White Cake Mix: 1 box (15.25 oz)
- Unsalted Butter: 1 cup (2 sticks, melted)
- Water: 1 cup
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
- In a mixing bowl, toss the fresh cranberries with granulated sugar until they are evenly coated.
- Spread the sugared cranberries evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Evenly sprinkle the dry cake mix over the cranberries without stirring.
- Drizzle melted butter evenly over the dry cake mix, ensuring all areas are covered.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly around the edges.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving warm, optionally topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 piece (150g)
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
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