Apple Cranberry Dump Cake is a simple dessert made by layering ingredients in a baking dish. It requires minimal preparation and bakes in under an hour.
This delectable Apple Cranberry Dump Cake combines sweet apples and tart cranberries for a perfect fall treat. With just a few ingredients and no mixing required, it’s a great option for busy days or last-minute gatherings. The ease of preparation makes it ideal for novice bakers or anyone short on time.
Featuring a boxed cake mix, canned fruit, and butter, this recipe delivers a moist, flavorful cake with a delightful crumbly topping. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent experience.
Ingredients Needed
Creating a delicious Apple Cranberry Dump Cake is simple and fun. All you need are some basic ingredients and a few optional additions to enhance the flavor. Let’s dive into the specifics of what you’ll need.
Key Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Apples | 4 cups, peeled and sliced |
| Cranberries | 2 cups, fresh or frozen |
| Sugar | 1 cup |
| Cinnamon | 1 teaspoon |
| Yellow Cake Mix | 1 box |
| Butter | 1 cup, melted |
Optional Additions
- Chopped Nuts – Add 1/2 cup for extra crunch.
- Vanilla Extract – Add 1 teaspoon for a richer flavor.
- Brown Sugar – Sprinkle 1/4 cup on top for caramelization.
- Oats – Add 1/2 cup for a chewy texture.
- Whipped Cream – Serve with a dollop for a creamy finish.
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Preparation Steps
Preparing a delicious Apple Cranberry Dump Cake is simple and fun. Follow these steps to create a mouth-watering dessert that everyone will love.
Gathering Supplies
Before you start, gather all your supplies. This makes the process smooth and enjoyable. Here’s a list of the essentials you’ll need:
- Mixing bowl
- 9×13 baking dish
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Can opener
Prepping Ingredients
Now that you have your supplies, it’s time to prep the ingredients. Follow these simple steps:
| Ingredient | Preparation |
|---|---|
| Apples | Peel, core, and slice into thin pieces. |
| Cranberries | Rinse and drain well. |
| Sugar | Measure 1 cup. |
| Cinnamon | Measure 1 tsp. |
| Yellow Cake Mix | Open the box and set aside. |
| Butter | Cut into thin slices. |
With your ingredients prepped, you’re ready to move on to assembling your Apple Cranberry Dump Cake. This preparation ensures everything goes smoothly.
Mixing The Cake
Mixing the cake is a crucial step in making a delicious Apple Cranberry Dump Cake. Proper mixing ensures all ingredients blend perfectly, creating a delightful texture and taste.
Layering Techniques
Layering the ingredients correctly is essential for a successful dump cake. Follow these steps for the best results:
- Start with the fruit: Spread the apple and cranberry mixture evenly in the baking dish.
- Add the dry cake mix: Sprinkle the cake mix over the fruit, covering it completely.
- Distribute the butter: Place thin slices of butter evenly over the dry cake mix.
Each layer plays a key role in the final texture. Ensure an even spread of each ingredient for the best taste.
Tips For Even Mixing
Even mixing is crucial for a consistent texture. Here are some tips:
- Use a spatula: A spatula helps spread the fruit mixture evenly.
- Check for clumps: Break up any clumps in the dry cake mix before sprinkling.
- Butter distribution: Ensure the butter slices are evenly spaced.
These tips help achieve an even mix, ensuring each bite is perfect.
Baking Instructions
Ready to bake your delicious Apple Cranberry Dump Cake? Follow these simple steps. Start by preparing your oven and baking time. This ensures the perfect cake every time.
Oven Settings
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature ensures even baking. Make sure your oven rack is in the center position. This helps the cake cook evenly. If using a convection oven, set it to 325°F (165°C).
Baking Time
Place your prepared cake in the preheated oven. Bake for 45-50 minutes. Check for a golden-brown top. Insert a toothpick to test for doneness. It should come out clean or with a few crumbs.
If the top browns too quickly, cover it with foil. This prevents burning. Allow the cake to cool for at least 15 minutes before serving.
| Oven Type | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Regular Oven | 350°F (175°C) | 45-50 minutes |
| Convection Oven | 325°F (165°C) | 45-50 minutes |
Once done, let the cake cool. Enjoy your delightful Apple Cranberry Dump Cake!
Serving Suggestions
Transform your delicious Apple Cranberry Dump Cake into an unforgettable dessert experience. Explore these serving suggestions to elevate your dessert game. From pairing ideas to presentation tips, make every bite memorable.
Ideal Pairings
Pair your Apple Cranberry Dump Cake with these delightful accompaniments:
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture complements the cake’s fruity flavors.
- Whipped Cream: Adds a light and airy touch to each bite.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzle over the cake for an extra layer of sweetness.
- Fresh Berries: Enhance the fruity profile with a mix of fresh berries.
Presentation Tips
Make your Apple Cranberry Dump Cake look as good as it tastes with these presentation tips:
- Use a Cake Stand: Elevate the cake for a more elegant display.
- Garnish with Mint Leaves: Add a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve in Individual Portions: Use ramekins for a personalized touch.
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: Sprinkle a light layer for a visually appealing finish.
Consider creating a dessert table with complementary items for a complete experience. Use pretty plates, napkins, and utensils to enhance the overall presentation.
| Accompaniment | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Vanilla Ice Cream | Creamy texture |
| Whipped Cream | Light and airy |
| Caramel Sauce | Extra sweetness |
| Fresh Berries | Enhanced fruity profile |
Storage Tips
Enjoying your Apple Cranberry Dump Cake is delightful. But storing it properly ensures it stays fresh longer. Follow these tips to keep your cake as delicious as the day you made it.
Refrigeration
Place the cake in an airtight container. This helps retain its moisture. Store the container in the refrigerator.
If you don’t have an airtight container, cover the cake with plastic wrap. Ensure it’s wrapped tightly to prevent air exposure.
Refrigerated cake lasts up to five days. Always check for any signs of spoilage before serving.
Freezing Options
Freezing your Apple Cranberry Dump Cake is a great option for long-term storage. Here’s how to do it:
- Let the cake cool completely before freezing.
- Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap.
- Place the wrapped cake in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Label the container with the date for reference.
Frozen cake can last up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Enjoy your delicious cake anytime!
Variations
Apple Cranberry Dump Cake is delightful as it is. But, you can make it even better by experimenting with various flavor twists and dietary modifications. These changes can make your cake unique and cater to different tastes and dietary needs.
Flavor Twists
Enhance your cake by adding new flavors. Try these ideas:
- Spiced Apple: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves for a warm, spicy taste.
- Nuts & Seeds: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
- Caramel: Drizzle caramel sauce over the top for extra sweetness.
- Chocolate Chips: Mix in chocolate chips for a delightful surprise.
- Mixed Berries: Use a blend of cranberries, blueberries, and raspberries.
Dietary Modifications
Make your cake suitable for various diets with these modifications:
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cake mix and check all other ingredients for gluten.
- Vegan: Use a vegan cake mix and replace butter with vegan margarine.
- Sugar-Free: Opt for a sugar-free cake mix and use sugar substitutes.
- Low-Carb: Use almond flour instead of regular flour and a low-carb sweetener.
- Dairy-Free: Replace butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is A Dump Cake?
A dump cake is a simple dessert where ingredients are “dumped” into a baking dish and baked. It’s easy and requires no mixing. You just layer the ingredients and bake.
How To Make Apple Cranberry Dump Cake?
To make apple cranberry dump cake, layer apple pie filling, cranberries, and cake mix in a baking dish. Top with melted butter. Bake until golden and bubbly.
Can I Use Fresh Cranberries?
Yes, you can use fresh cranberries. Substitute an equal amount of fresh cranberries for canned ones. Adjust sugar if needed for sweetness.
What Type Of Cake Mix To Use?
Use a yellow or white cake mix for the best results. These mixes complement the tartness of the cranberries and sweetness of the apples.
Conclusion
This Apple Cranberry Dump Cake recipe is a must-try for dessert lovers. It’s simple, quick, and bursting with flavors. Perfect for any occasion, this cake will impress your family and friends. Give it a try and enjoy a delightful treat that everyone will love.
Happy baking!
