There’s something magical about the aroma of warm gingerbread wafting through your kitchen, mingling with the sweet scent of juicy pears. Imagine sinking your fork into a warm slice of Gingerbread Pear Dump Cake, each bite bursting with spices that dance on your taste buds and the soft texture that makes you feel like you’re wrapped in a cozy blanket. It’s the kind of dessert that transports you to a rustic cabin in the woods, surrounded by laughter and the crackling sound of a fire.
This recipe brings back fond memories of holiday gatherings filled with family and friends, where everyone indulged in delightful treats. The Gingerbread Pear Dump Cake is perfect for those chilly evenings when you want to impress your guests without spending all day in the kitchen. Get ready to delight yourself and your loved ones with this show-stopping dessert that promises smiles all around!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The Gingerbread Pear Dump Cake is a cinch to whip up, making it ideal for busy bakers.
- Its rich flavors will have everyone reaching for seconds, and its inviting golden-brown color will brighten any table.
- Plus, you can easily swap in different fruits or spices based on what you have at home!
Ingredients for Gingerbread Pear Dump Cake
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Pears: Choose ripe pears for sweetness; Bartlett or Bosc work beautifully in this recipe.
- Gingerbread Mix: Use store-bought gingerbread mix for ease or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Butter: Melted butter adds richness and flavor; use unsalted to control salt levels.
- Brown Sugar: This gives your cake that deep caramel flavor; light or dark works perfectly.
- Eggs: Two large eggs bind the ingredients together, creating a moist texture.
- Milk: Any milk will do; it’s just there to add moisture and richness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Gingerbread Pear 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 warms up, grab an oven-safe dish—about 9×13 inches—and lightly grease it with nonstick spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Pears
Peel and slice your pears into bite-sized pieces. Toss them with a sprinkle of brown sugar and set them aside while you mix other ingredients. This helps draw out their natural sweetness.
Step 3: Mix Your Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the gingerbread mix, melted butter, eggs, and milk. Stir until everything comes together smoothly—don’t worry if it’s a bit lumpy; that’s part of its charm!
Step 4: Layer It Up
Pour half of the gingerbread batter into your prepared baking dish. Next, spread those sweetened pear slices evenly over the batter. Finally, pour the remaining batter on top—you want it to look somewhat messy because that’s how dump cakes roll!
Step 5: Bake Away
Place your dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The edges should be golden brown and slightly bubbling—this is where magic happens!
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove from oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Cut into squares and serve warm with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!
Now gather your friends around because this Gingerbread Pear Dump Cake is sure to be a hit! Transfer slices onto plates, drizzle with caramel sauce if you’re feeling extra fancy, and watch those smiles grow wider as they dig in!
You Must Know
- This delightful Gingerbread Pear Dump Cake combines the warm spices of gingerbread with the sweet, juicy flavors of ripe pears.
- It’s a simple dessert that will impress your friends and family without requiring hours in the kitchen.
- Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Peel and slice the pears, then toss them with spices. Next, layer the cake mix over the fruit, drizzling melted butter on top. Bake until golden brown for delicious results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out pears for apples or peaches if you’re feeling adventurous. Add nuts for a crunchy texture or a scoop of vanilla ice cream when serving for an extra treat that will steal the show.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover dump cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave for about 20 seconds or warm it up in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use ripe, juicy pears for the best flavor; they make all the difference in this dish.
- Don’t skip melting the butter; it creates a crispy top layer that’s irresistible.
- Let your cake cool slightly before serving; it helps with slicing and adds extra flavor.
I remember making this Gingerbread Pear Dump Cake for a family gathering last year. My cousin took one bite and exclaimed it was like a hug from Grandma! It’s those moments that make cooking so special.
FAQs:
What is a Gingerbread Pear Dump Cake?
A Gingerbread Pear Dump Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the warm flavors of gingerbread with juicy pears. This easy-to-make cake requires minimal preparation, as you simply “dump” the ingredients together in a baking dish. The result is a comforting and flavorful treat that’s perfect for fall gatherings or holiday celebrations. Serve it warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra special touch.
How do I store leftover Gingerbread Pear Dump Cake?
To store leftover Gingerbread Pear Dump Cake, allow it to cool completely before covering it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also place it in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing individual portions. Wrap them well and place them in the freezer for up to three months. Reheat slices in the microwave for a quick dessert fix.
Can I use fresh pears instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pears instead of canned ones in your Gingerbread Pear Dump Cake! Make sure to peel and slice the pears evenly before adding them to the mixture. Fresh pears will provide a firmer texture and brighter flavor than canned varieties. Just be aware that you might need to adjust the baking time slightly, as fresh fruit may release more moisture during cooking.
What are some variations for Gingerbread Pear Dump Cake?
You can customize your Gingerbread Pear Dump Cake by adding different spices or toppings. Consider incorporating chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch. You might also experiment with spices such as nutmeg or allspice along with ginger. For a twist, try adding dried cranberries or chocolate chips into the mix for extra flavor dimensions. Each variation will give your dump cake a unique spin!
Conclusion for Gingerbread Pear Dump Cake:
In summary, the Gingerbread Pear Dump Cake is an effortless yet delicious dessert that beautifully marries the spiced warmth of gingerbread with sweet pear flavors. Its simplicity makes it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced bakers alike. Remember to store leftovers properly and feel free to explore various ingredient options for personalized twists on this classic recipe. Enjoy this delightful treat at your next gathering!
Gingerbread Pear Dump Cake
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 people. 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in the warm, spiced goodness of Gingerbread Pear Dump Cake, a delightful dessert that brings cozy flavors to your table. Perfect for gatherings and chilly nights.
Ingredients
- 4 ripe pears, peeled and sliced
- 1 box (15 oz) gingerbread mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Prepare the Pears: Toss the sliced pears with a sprinkle of brown sugar and set aside to enhance their sweetness.
- Mix Your Batter: In a large bowl, combine the gingerbread mix, melted butter, eggs, and milk. Mix until just combined; some lumps are okay.
- Layer It Up: Pour half of the batter into the prepared baking dish. Spread the sweetened pear slices evenly over the batter, then pour the remaining batter on top.
- Bake Away: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow to cool slightly before cutting into squares. Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square (100g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 190mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Substitute pears with apples or peaches for variety. Add nuts like walnuts or pecans for delightful crunch. Drizzle with caramel sauce when serving for an extra treat.
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