Cranberry Dump Cake is like a warm hug on a chilly evening, bringing together the sweet and tart flavors of cranberries with the comforting embrace of cake. Picture this: a delightful blend of textures, where soft cake mingles with gooey cranberry goodness, creating an aroma that makes your heart race faster than a squirrel on espresso.
Whenever I whip up this dish, I can’t help but think back to family gatherings filled with laughter and love. This scrumptious dessert graced our holiday table, brightening even the dreariest winter days. It’s perfect for potlucks or cozy nights in, promising a burst of flavor that leaves you craving more.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delicious cranberry dump cake requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy bakers.
- The combination of sweet and tart flavors creates an unforgettable taste experience.
- With its vibrant colors and inviting aroma, it’s sure to catch everyone’s eye at any gathering.
- Versatile enough for holidays or casual get-togethers, it’s a dessert everyone will adore.
Ingredients for Cranberry Dump Cake
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Cranberry Sauce: Use canned or homemade cranberry sauce; both options deliver that sweet-tart punch we all crave.
- Cake Mix: A classic yellow cake mix works wonders here; it provides the perfect base for our fruity topping.
- Butter: Unsalted butter is your best friend in this recipe; it adds richness and helps create that coveted crispy top.
- Eggs: Just one egg will help bind everything together, adding moisture without overshadowing the flavors.
- Chopped Nuts (Optional): Walnuts or pecans add a delightful crunch; choose based on your preference for texture in desserts.
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
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, grab a baking dish and lightly coat it with nonstick cooking spray to prevent any sticky situations later.
Step 2: Spread the Cranberry Sauce
Open that can of cranberry sauce and spread it evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Take a moment to admire that gorgeous crimson hue—it’s like art!
Step 3: Mix the Cake Batter
In a mixing bowl, combine the cake mix with one egg and half of the melted butter. Stir until just combined; don’t worry about lumps—this isn’t a beauty contest.
Step 4: Pour Over Cranberries
Carefully pour the cake batter over the cranberry layer in your baking dish. Use a spatula to gently spread it out; you’re not trying to disturb the cranberries too much here.
Step 5: Add Butter and Nuts
Drizzle the remaining melted butter over the top of the batter like you’re painting a masterpiece. If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle chopped nuts over everything for added crunch.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Slide your creation into the oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes or until golden brown on top. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone wondering what’s cooking.
Transfer to plates and serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an irresistible finishing touch. Enjoy!
You Must Know
- This delightful cranberry dump cake is the ultimate dessert for busy bakers.
- With its easy prep and delicious results, it’s a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Plus, you can customize the flavors to make it your own!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven while you mix the ingredients. Combine your cranberries with sugar, then layer them in a baking dish. Top with cake mix and butter before popping it into the oven for a bubbly, golden delight.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap cranberries for other fruits like blueberries or peaches. Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth, or sprinkle some coconut or nuts on top for added texture. The possibilities are endless!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers 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 up the whole dish in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh cranberries for a tart flavor that balances perfectly with sweetness.
- Make sure to spread the butter evenly over the cake mix to ensure even baking.
- Serve with whipped cream or ice cream for a decadent treat!
Sometimes, my friends ask me why I keep making this cranberry dump cake. The laughter and joy on their faces when they take their first bite is all the answer I need!
FAQs:
What is a Cranberry Dump Cake?
Cranberry Dump Cake is a simple dessert that combines fresh or canned cranberries with cake mix and butter. This easy recipe requires minimal prep time, making it perfect for gatherings or special occasions. The ingredients are simply “dumped” into a baking dish, hence the name. The result is a deliciously tart and sweet cake with a crumbly topping that pairs perfectly with ice cream or whipped cream.
How do I store leftover Cranberry Dump Cake?
To store leftover Cranberry Dump Cake, let it cool completely before covering it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also transfer it to an airtight container. When stored properly in the refrigerator, it will last for about three to four days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing individual portions. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
Can I make Cranberry Dump Cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Cranberry Dump Cake ahead of time. To do this, assemble the ingredients without baking them and cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before you plan to bake. When you’re ready, simply remove it from the fridge and bake as directed. This makes it an excellent option for holiday gatherings or potluck events.
What are some variations for Cranberry Dump Cake?
There are many delicious variations of Cranberry Dump Cake you can try. For instance, you can substitute cranberries with other fruits like blueberries or cherries for a different flavor profile. Adding nuts or chocolate chips can give your cake extra texture and richness. For an added twist, sprinkle some cinnamon or nutmeg on top before baking to enhance the flavor further.
Conclusion for Cranberry Dump Cake:
In summary, Cranberry Dump Cake is an effortless yet delightful dessert that brings together tart cranberries and sweet cake mix in an appealing way. It’s perfect for any occasion due to its simplicity and quick preparation time. Whether you enjoy it warm with ice cream or chilled as leftovers, this versatile recipe is sure to impress your friends and family. Try making this crowd-pleaser at your next gathering!
Cranberry Dump Cake
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Cranberry Dump Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the sweet-tartness of cranberries with a soft cake topping, perfect for gatherings and cozy nights in.
Ingredients
- 1 can (14 oz) cranberry sauce
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (divided)
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Spread the Cranberry Sauce: Evenly spread the cranberry sauce across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Mix the Cake Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, one egg, and half of the melted butter. Stir until just combined; lumps are okay.
- Pour Over Cranberries: Pour the cake batter over the cranberry layer and gently spread it out.
- Add Butter and Nuts: Drizzle the remaining melted butter over the top of the batter. Sprinkle chopped nuts if desired.
- Bake Until Golden: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown on top. Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an irresistible treat!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 100g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, consider incorporating spices like cinnamon or swapping cranberries for fruits such as blueberries or peaches. - Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
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