Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this *cranberry apple dump cake*! It’s one of those desserts that just screams comfort and warmth. Seriously, you won’t believe how easy it is to make, and the flavors? Wow! The tartness of the fresh cranberries perfectly balances the sweetness of the apples, creating a delightful harmony that dances on your taste buds.
I love making this cake, especially during the fall when apples are at their best. It’s such a simple recipe—just layer, sprinkle, and bake! You get this gorgeous, golden brown top that just beckons to be served warm, maybe with a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting on top. Trust me, that warm, gooey goodness combined with the crispness of the apples is pure bliss. It’s the kind of dessert that brings everyone together, and I can’t wait for you to try it!
Ingredients for Cranberry Apple Dump Cake
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this delicious cranberry apple dump cake. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups fresh cranberries: These little gems add that perfect tartness. If you can’t find fresh ones, don’t worry—frozen cranberries work just as well!
- 2 cups sliced apples: I like to use a mix of tart and sweet apples for depth of flavor. Think Granny Smith mixed with Honeycrisp—yum!
- 1 cup sugar: This will help sweeten the tart cranberries while keeping everything balanced. You can adjust a bit if you like it sweeter!
- 1 box yellow cake mix: This is the magic that ties it all together. It’s so convenient and gives that classic cake texture without all the fuss.
- 1 cup butter, melted: This adds richness and helps form that lovely, crispy topping. Don’t skimp on the butter—it’s what makes it divine!
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon: A warm sprinkle of cinnamon brings everything to life. It’s that cozy flavor we all adore, especially in desserts!
Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, you’re one step closer to making this mouthwatering dessert! Exciting, right?
How to Prepare Cranberry Apple Dump Cake
Alright, let’s dive into the fun part—making this scrumptious cranberry apple dump cake! Don’t worry, it’s super simple. Just follow these steps, and I promise you’ll be amazed at how easy it is!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important because it ensures your cake bakes evenly and gets that lovely golden brown color. So, turn on that oven and let it warm up while you prepare the rest!
Step 2: Layer the Fruit
Now, grab a baking dish and layer those fresh cranberries and sliced apples. Start with the cranberries at the bottom—they’re quite tart and will soak up all that sweetness from the apples. Then, add the sliced apples on top, spreading them out evenly. This creates a beautiful base for your cake!
Step 3: Add Sugar
Next, sprinkle the sugar over the fruit layers. Make sure to cover them evenly—this is what will help sweeten the tart cranberries and enhance the apples’ flavor. You can just use your hands or a spoon to do this; it doesn’t have to be perfect, just spread it around!
Step 4: Distribute the Cake Mix
Now it’s time for the cake mix! Open the box, and gently sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the sugar layer. This is the magic part that will create that delicious cake topping. No need to mix it in; just let it sit on top like a cozy blanket!
Step 5: Drizzle Butter
Grab that melted butter and drizzle it over the cake mix. Take your time here to cover as much of the mix as possible—this will make sure the top gets nice and crispy as it bakes. Butter is your friend here, so don’t hold back!
Step 6: Add Cinnamon
Finally, sprinkle about a teaspoon of cinnamon on top of everything. This adds that warm, cozy flavor that makes this cake so irresistible. Trust me, it’s the finishing touch that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Step 7: Bake
Now, pop that baking dish in your preheated oven and let it bake for about 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. If you want to be sure, you can stick a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, it’s done! Let it cool for a few minutes, then dig in while it’s still warm. You’re going to love it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This dump cake comes together in no time! With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious dessert ready to bake.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of tart cranberries and sweet apples is a match made in heaven, creating a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist.
- Easy Cleanup: One baking dish is all you need! Less mess means more time to enjoy your dessert, and who doesn’t love that?
- Comfort Food Appeal: This cake is the ultimate cozy dessert. It’s warm, gooey, and perfect for sharing with family or friends on a chilly evening.
Tips for Success
Now that you’re ready to whip up this delicious cranberry apple dump cake, here are some pro tips to ensure everything turns out perfectly. Trust me, a few little tweaks can make a big difference!
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cranberries and crisp apples will elevate your dump cake. If you’re using frozen cranberries, make sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture.
- Don’t Overmix: When layering the cake mix, resist the urge to stir it into the fruit. Just let it sit on top! Mixing can lead to a dense texture, and we want that light, fluffy topping.
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste your apples first! If they’re really sweet, you might want to cut back on the sugar a little. You can always add more sugar, but you can’t take it out once it’s in!
- Keep an Eye on Baking Time: Ovens can vary, so check your cake a few minutes before the full 45 minutes is up. Look for that golden brown top and bubbly edges—it’s the best indicator that it’s ready!
- Let It Cool: After baking, give your cake a few minutes to cool. This helps it set up nicely and makes it easier to serve without falling apart.
- Serve it Warm: This cake is at its best when served warm. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for the ultimate treat!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create a cranberry apple dump cake that will impress everyone. Happy baking!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of this delightful cranberry apple dump cake! Keep in mind that the nutrition values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these are just estimates to give you a general idea:
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
So, if you’re looking for a comforting dessert that won’t completely derail your day, this cake fits the bill! Enjoy every slice knowing it’s a sweet treat made with love. Just remember, moderation is key, especially when you want to enjoy that scoop of ice cream on top!
Serving Suggestions
Serving this cranberry apple dump cake is one of the best parts because there are so many delicious options to enhance its flavor! Here are some of my favorite ideas to make this cozy dessert even more delightful:
- With Ice Cream: Serve a warm slice topped with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy coldness perfectly contrasts the warm cake, creating a dreamy dessert experience!
- Drizzled with Caramel: A little drizzle of caramel sauce elevates the flavors to a whole new level. The rich sweetness pairs wonderfully with the tart cranberries!
- With Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds lightness and a touch of elegance. It’s also great for balancing the sweetness of the cake.
- Sprinkled with Nuts: For a bit of crunch, sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top. They add a lovely texture and nutty flavor that complements the fruit beautifully.
- With a Side of Yogurt: If you’re looking for a healthier option, serving it with a side of Greek yogurt can add a creamy tang that goes nicely with the sweetness of the cake.
- A Bit of Cinnamon Sugar: Dusting a little cinnamon sugar on top just before serving can add a lovely touch of sweetness and spice that’s simply irresistible!
Whatever you choose, just remember to enjoy it while it’s warm. This cake is all about comfort, and the right accompaniments can make it even more special. Happy serving!
FAQ About Cranberry Apple Dump Cake
Got questions about this delightful cranberry apple dump cake? I’ve got answers! Here are some of the most common questions I get about this recipe, along with my tips to help you out.
Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just as well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain them first to prevent excess moisture in your cake.
What type of apples are best for this cake?
I recommend using a mix of tart and sweet apples for the best flavor. Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are a perfect combo! But feel free to use your favorites—just avoid apples that are too mealy.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Just prepare the layers and store them in the fridge before baking. When you’re ready, pop it in the oven for a fresh, warm dessert. It’s perfect for gatherings or last-minute guests!
How do I know when the dump cake is done?
Look for a golden brown top and bubbling edges. If you insert a toothpick in the center, it should come out clean. If you see wet batter, give it a few more minutes in the oven.
Can I substitute the yellow cake mix?
Sure! If you’re feeling adventurous, you can use a spice cake mix for an added depth of flavor or a gluten-free mix if needed. Just keep in mind that the texture might change a bit!
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the microwave for a few seconds before enjoying again. You’ll want that warm, gooey goodness back!
Can I add anything else to the cake?
Oh, definitely! You can throw in some chopped nuts for crunch or even a handful of raisins for extra sweetness. The beauty of a dump cake is how versatile it is—feel free to get creative!
What do I serve with cranberry apple dump cake?
It’s delicious on its own, but I love serving it with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel. It takes this cozy dessert to the next level!
If you have any more questions, just let me know! I’m here to help you make the best cranberry apple dump cake ever!
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Cranberry Apple Dump Cake: 7 Reasons to Love This Comforting Dessert
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple dessert combining cranberries and apples in a cake.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 2 cups sliced apples
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 cup butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a baking dish, layer cranberries and apples.
- Sprinkle sugar over the fruit.
- Evenly distribute the dry cake mix over the sugar.
- Drizzle melted butter over the cake mix.
- Sprinkle cinnamon on top.
- Bake for 45 minutes or until golden brown.
Notes
- Serve warm with ice cream.
- Can substitute frozen cranberries.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: cranberry apple dump cake
