Imagine a dessert that combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweet warmth of cake, all in one delightful dish. Cranberry Dump Cake is the dessert you never knew you needed until now—trust me, it will make your taste buds dance with joy. Picture this: a golden-brown crust on top that crumbles perfectly as you dig into the gooey filling beneath, and the aroma wafting through your kitchen is enough to have your neighbors knocking on your door for a slice.
This recipe holds a special place in my heart, as it reminds me of family gatherings where laughter and love were abundant. Every Thanksgiving, my aunt would whip up her famous Cranberry Dump Cake, making sure there was enough to go around—because let’s face it, no one ever wants to skimp on dessert! Whether it’s for a holiday feast or just a cozy evening at home, this cake brings people together over its sweet-tart flavors and fluffy texture that’s simply irresistible.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Cranberry Dump Cake is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings.
- Its unique blend of tangy cranberries and buttery cake creates an unforgettable flavor sensation.
- The vibrant red color topped with golden crust makes it visually appealing on any table.
- Enjoy it warm or chilled; this versatile dessert fits any occasion perfectly.
Ingredients for Cranberry Dump Cake
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Cranberries: These bring the tartness that balances perfectly with the sweetness of the cake; frozen cranberries work too.
- Cake Mix: A classic yellow or white cake mix makes for an easy base; choose your favorite brand for best results.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over your cake’s flavor; melted butter adds richness.
- Granulated Sugar: Just a bit of sugar helps enhance the flavor of the cranberries while sweetening the dish overall.
- Water: Simple tap water helps dissolve sugar and create a syrup-like consistency with the cranberries.
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 heating up, grab a baking dish and coat it with nonstick cooking spray or butter to prevent any sticking disasters.
Step 2: Prepare the Cranberry Mixture
In a large bowl, combine fresh or frozen cranberries with granulated sugar and water. Stir gently until everything is well mixed and let it sit for about five minutes to let those flavors mingle.
Step 3: Spread It Out
Pour the cranberry mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Don’t worry if it looks like a hot mess—it’s supposed to be!
Step 4: Add the Cake Mix
Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the cranberry layer. No need to mix; just spread it out like you’re creating a magical layer of happiness.
Step 5: Drizzle That Butter
Melt your butter and drizzle it generously over the cake mix layer. Don’t hold back! This will give you that crispy topping that’s oh-so-yummy.
Step 6: Bake It Up
Place your masterpiece in the preheated oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes or until golden brown on top. You’ll know it’s done when your kitchen starts smelling so good that you might just want to take a nap right there!
Once baked, allow it to cool slightly before serving. You can enjoy it warm or at room temperature—maybe even top it off with some whipped cream if you’re feeling fancy! Transfer to plates and watch everyone dive in like they haven’t eaten in days—the joy on their faces will be priceless!
You Must Know
- This delightful cranberry dump cake is not just a dessert; it’s an easy-breezy way to impress friends and family.
- With only a few ingredients, this cake brings festive vibes to any gathering without breaking a sweat.
- Perfect for parties or cozy nights in!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. While it warms up, mix the cranberries with sugar and pour them into a baking dish. Sprinkle the cake mix over the cranberries and drizzle melted butter on top. Bake until golden brown for about 40 minutes.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap cranberries for blueberries or cherries if you want a twist on the classic flavor. You can also add nuts for crunch or a sprinkle of cinnamon for warmth. Get creative and make it your own!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cranberry dump cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop individual servings in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or warm them back in the oven.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For an even fruitier kick, try adding a layer of cream cheese beneath the cake mix.
- This adds richness and tang!
- Keep an eye on baking time; overbaking can dry it out.
- Lastly, let it cool slightly before serving to avoid burnt tongues!
There was that one Thanksgiving when I brought this cranberry dump cake to dinner, and it disappeared faster than my uncle’s famous turkey. Everyone raved, and I felt like a rockstar chef with minimal effort!
FAQs :
What is a Cranberry Dump Cake?
A Cranberry Dump Cake is a simple dessert that combines layers of cranberry sauce, cake mix, and butter. You essentially “dump” the ingredients into a baking dish without mixing them. The result is a deliciously gooey cake with a crispy top layer. This dessert is perfect for holiday gatherings or any occasion when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
How do I store leftover Cranberry Dump Cake?
To store leftover Cranberry Dump Cake, allow it to cool completely before covering it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place it in the refrigerator, where it can stay fresh for up to five days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 15-30 seconds before serving, ensuring you enjoy the cake warm and gooey.
Can I make Cranberry Dump Cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Cranberry Dump Cake ahead of time! Prepare the cake as directed and then cover it tightly with plastic wrap. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake it according to the recipe instructions. This allows you to enjoy a warm dessert without any last-minute hassle.
What variations can I try with my Cranberry Dump Cake?
You can customize your Cranberry Dump Cake by adding different fruits like apples or peaches for added flavor. Consider using flavored cake mixes such as vanilla or spice cake for a twist. Additionally, you could sprinkle nuts or chocolate chips on top before baking for extra texture and taste. These variations enhance your dump cake while keeping its delicious essence intact.
Conclusion for Cranberry Dump Cake :
In summary, the Cranberry Dump Cake offers an easy yet delightful way to enjoy a sweet treat with minimal effort. Its unique layering method allows flavors to meld beautifully during baking, resulting in a dessert that’s both crispy and gooey. Whether you’re serving it at holiday gatherings or casual get-togethers, this recipe is sure to please everyone. Don’t forget to explore variations to make it your own!
Cranberry Dump Cake
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in the sweet-tart flavors of this easy-to-make Cranberry Dump Cake. Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights, it’s a dessert that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow or white cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking dish by greasing it with nonstick cooking spray or butter.
- In a large bowl, combine cranberries, sugar, and water. Stir gently and let sit for about five minutes.
- Pour the cranberry mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the cranberry layer without mixing.
- Drizzle melted butter generously over the cake mix layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown on top.
- Let cool slightly before serving warm or at room temperature. Enjoy with whipped cream if desired!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 100g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: - For added texture, consider mixing in nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon. - You can substitute cranberries with blueberries or cherries for a different flavor profile. - To enhance creaminess, add a layer of cream cheese beneath the cake mix.
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