Cranberry Dump Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a heavenly concoction that bursts with the tartness of cranberries, enveloped in a warm, buttery cake that’s so easy to make it should come with its own cape. Picture this: you walk into your home, and the sweet aroma of baked goodness wraps around you like a cozy blanket. As you slice into this delight, the layers blend together in perfect harmony, creating an explosion of flavors that will have your taste buds dancing.
Now, let’s be honest. If you’re anything like me, baking can sometimes feel like trying to solve a Rubik’s Cube while riding a unicycle. But fear not! This Cranberry Dump Cake is here to save the day (and your sanity). Perfect for holiday gatherings or just because it’s Tuesday, this dessert will leave your friends wondering if you’ve secretly enrolled in culinary school.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Cranberry Dump Cake is incredibly easy to prepare; even novice bakers will shine.
- Each bite offers a delightful balance of sweetness and tartness that keeps you coming back for more.
- The vibrant colors make it a show-stopper on any table, ideal for festive occasions or casual family dinners.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to enjoy year-round!
Ingredients for Cranberry Dump Cake
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh or Frozen Cranberries: Choose tart cranberries for that perfect flavor burst; frozen works just as well.
- Cake Mix: A box of yellow cake mix gives this dump cake its signature fluffy texture.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter for optimal flavor control; melting it adds richness.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the cranberries and balances their tartness beautifully.
- Water: Just a splash helps to create steam during baking for extra moistness.
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
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, grab your favorite baking dish and lightly grease it with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Berries
In a mixing bowl, toss together your fresh or frozen cranberries with granulated sugar and set them aside. This little moment allows those berries to soak up some sugary goodness.
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients
Pour the cranberry mixture evenly across the bottom of your greased baking dish. Next, sprinkle the dry cake mix over the top—yes, sprinkle! It’s called “dump” cake for a reason.
Step 4: Melt and Pour Butter
Melt about one stick (1/2 cup) of unsalted butter until it’s nice and gooey. Drizzle this melted magic all over the cake mix layer. No need to be precise; just cover as much as you can!
Step 5: Add Water
Now comes our secret weapon: gently pour water around the edges of the pan—this helps create steam while baking. Don’t drown it; we’re not making soup here!
Step 6: Bake and Enjoy
Bake your creation in that preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes or until golden brown on top. The aroma wafting through your house will have everyone swooning with anticipation.
Once done, let it cool slightly before serving—if you can resist! Transfer generous spoonfuls onto plates and serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an out-of-this-world experience.
And there you have it! A delightful Cranberry Dump Cake that’s sure to impress friends and family alike—all without breaking a sweat in the kitchen!
You Must Know
- This delightful cranberry dump cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a nostalgic trip down memory lane.
- With its easy preparation and vibrant flavors, it’s perfect for gatherings or those cozy nights at home.
- Just throw the ingredients together, and let the magic happen.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To create the ultimate cranberry dump cake, start by preheating your oven while you mix the ingredients. Combine cranberries and cake mix in a baking dish, then drizzle melted butter on top before baking. This sequence ensures even cooking and mouthwatering results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your cranberry dump cake! Swap cranberries for blueberries or cherries for a twist. Add nuts, chocolate chips, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon to elevate the flavor profile. Make it your own masterpiece!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover cranberry dump cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave for about 30 seconds or warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a perfectly gooey texture, make sure not to overbake your cranberry dump cake; check it at the 40-minute mark.
- Using fresh cranberries will give you that tartness that pairs beautifully with sweetness.
- Don’t skip the butter drizzle; it adds richness and depth!
My Aunt Betty swears by this recipe every Thanksgiving; she says no one can resist its charm! One time, I forgot to add the butter, and let me tell you—never heard so much “What happened?” in my life!
FAQs :
What ingredients are needed for Cranberry Dump Cake?
To make a delicious Cranberry Dump Cake, you’ll need several simple ingredients. Gather one can of whole cranberry sauce, a box of yellow cake mix, unsalted butter, and chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts. You may also want to add a dash of cinnamon for extra flavor. This recipe is incredibly easy and requires minimal prep time, making it perfect for gatherings or family dinners.
How long does it take to bake Cranberry Dump Cake?
Baking your Cranberry Dump Cake is quick and straightforward. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the cake for about 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top turns golden brown and the edges bubble slightly. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Can I use fresh cranberries in my Cranberry Dump Cake?
Absolutely! While canned cranberry sauce is commonly used, fresh cranberries can add a delightful tartness to your Cranberry Dump Cake. If you decide to use fresh cranberries, consider adding some sugar to balance their tartness. This substitution can elevate your dessert’s flavor profile while still maintaining that classic dump cake texture.
How should I store leftover Cranberry Dump Cake?
To keep your leftover Cranberry Dump Cake fresh, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay good for about 3-4 days. If you want to enjoy it later, consider freezing individual slices in airtight containers for up to three months. Simply thaw and reheat when you’re ready to indulge again.
Conclusion for Cranberry Dump Cake :
Cranberry Dump Cake is an easy-to-make dessert that combines tart cranberries with a sweet cake topping. Using just a few ingredients, this recipe is perfect for busy bakers who want something special without the fuss. The baking process takes less than an hour, making it ideal for last-minute gatherings or cozy family dinners. Enjoy this delightful treat warm or at room temperature, and don’t forget to pair it with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence!
Cranberry Dump Cake
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Cranberry Dump Cake is an effortless dessert combining tart cranberries with a sweet, buttery cake topping. Perfect for any occasion, this dish will impress your guests!
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Prepare the Berries: In a mixing bowl, toss the cranberries with granulated sugar until well coated. Set aside.
- Layer the Ingredients: Evenly spread the cranberry mixture across the bottom of the greased baking dish. Sprinkle the dry cake mix over the top.
- Melt and Pour Butter: Melt the unsalted butter and drizzle it generously over the cake mix layer.
- Add Water: Pour water around the edges of the pan to create steam during baking.
- Bake and Enjoy: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown on top. Allow to cool slightly before serving warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (90g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, consider mixing in nuts like pecans or walnuts. - You can substitute cranberries with blueberries or cherries for variation. - Ensure not to overbake for a gooey texture; check around the 40-minute mark.
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