Introduction
Welcome to the world of dump cake! This easy dessert is perfect for impressing your guests or treating yourself to something special. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a rich, flavorful cake that tastes like it came from a Michelin-star restaurant. Let’s dive into the details!
What is Dump Cake?
Dump cake is a type of dessert where you layer ingredients in a baking dish and simply “dump” them in. It’s known for its simplicity and deliciousness. The cake typically features a fruit base topped with a cake mix and butter, resulting in a moist, flavorful treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make a fabulous dump cake, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 can of fruit (such as peach, cherry, or apple)
- 1 box of cake mix (vanilla or yellow works best)
- 1 cup of butter (melted)
- Optional add-ins: nuts (like walnuts or pecans), chocolate chips, or spices (like cinnamon or nutmeg)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these straightforward steps to create your dump cake:
- Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly. - Prepare the Fruit Layer
Open your can of fruit and drain any excess juice. Spread the fruit evenly across the bottom of a greased baking dish (a 9×13 inch dish works well). If using fresh fruit, chop it into bite-sized pieces. - Add the Cake Mix
Take your box of cake mix and sprinkle it evenly over the layer of fruit. Make sure to cover the fruit completely for even baking. - Pour on the Butter
Melt your butter in a microwave or on the stove. Once melted, drizzle the butter over the cake mix. Try to distribute it evenly so that all parts of the cake mix get moistened. - Optional Toppings
If you want to add some extra texture or flavor, now is the time! Sprinkle nuts, chocolate chips, or a dash of cinnamon on top of the butter. - Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 30-40 minutes. The top should become golden brown, and the edges will bubble.
Serving Suggestions
Once your dump cake is done, let it cool for a few minutes. Serve it warm, topped with a generous scoop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. The warm cake pairs beautifully with the cold ice cream, creating a delightful contrast.
Storage Tips
If you have any leftovers (though we doubt it!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The dump cake will keep for up to three days. When ready to enjoy, reheat it in the microwave or oven for the best flavor.
FAQs
- What is dump cake?
Dump cake is a layered dessert made by combining fruit, cake mix, and butter. - Can I use fresh fruit?
Yes, fresh fruit can be used! Just ensure it’s properly chopped and mixed. - How can I make it gluten-free?
Simply use a gluten-free cake mix instead of regular cake mix. - What’s the best fruit for dump cake?
Popular choices include peaches, cherries, and apples, but feel free to experiment! - Can I add chocolate?
Yes! Adding chocolate chips makes the cake even more indulgent. - How do I know when it’s done?
Look for a golden brown top and bubbling edges. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean. - Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the layers in advance and bake it just before serving. - What is the best way to reheat?
Microwave in short intervals (about 20 seconds) or warm in the oven at 350°F. - How can I make it more decadent?
Incorporate cream cheese or vanilla pudding into the fruit layer for added richness. - What if I don’t have butter?
You can substitute margarine or coconut oil for the butter. - Can I freeze dump cake?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking for up to three months. Thaw and bake when ready to serve. - How long does it last in the fridge?
Leftovers can last up to three days in an airtight container. - Can I use a different cake mix?
Definitely! Experiment with any flavor of cake mix you like. - Is dump cake easy to make?
Yes! It’s one of the easiest desserts to prepare, perfect for bakers of any level. - Can I add spices?
Adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg enhances the flavors beautifully.
