Introduction to Rhubarb Dump Cake
Rhubarb Dump Cake is a delightful, easy-to-make dessert that brings together the tartness of fresh rhubarb with the sweetness of a moist, buttery cake. This recipe is perfect for those who love the unique flavor of rhubarb and are looking for a simple dessert to prepare for family gatherings or potlucks. With just a few basic ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious dessert that will impress your guests.
Ingredients Needed for Rhubarb Dump Cake
To ensure your Rhubarb Dump Cake turns out perfectly, gather the following ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh rhubarb, diced (about 1 to 1¼ pounds)
- The key ingredient that gives this cake its distinct tart flavor.
- 1½ cups granulated sugar
- Adds sweetness to balance the tartness of the rhubarb.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- Helps thicken the rhubarb mixture as it bakes.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1 cup water, divided
- Keeps the cake moist and helps the cake mix blend seamlessly with the rhubarb.
- 15.25 ounces yellow cake mix, super moist (such as Betty Crocker)
- The base of the cake, providing a soft and fluffy texture.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- Adds richness and helps create a golden, crispy top.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Rhubarb Dump Cake
1. Preheat Your Oven
- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with baking spray and set it aside. Preheating the oven ensures that your cake bakes evenly from the start.
2. Prepare the Rhubarb Mixture
- In a large bowl, combine the diced rhubarb, granulated sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and ½ cup of water. Stir until the ingredients are evenly mixed. The cornstarch will help thicken the mixture as it bakes, creating a luscious filling.
3. Assemble the Cake
- Pour the rhubarb mixture into the prepared baking pan, ensuring it is evenly distributed. This ensures that every bite has a good balance of rhubarb and cake.
- Evenly sprinkle the yellow cake mix over the rhubarb mixture in the pan. If necessary, gently spread the cake mix to ensure it covers all the fruit evenly. This will form the cake layer on top of the rhubarb.
- Drizzle the remaining ½ cup of water evenly over the layer of cake mix. This helps the cake mix absorb the moisture and blend with the rhubarb below.
- Carefully drizzle the melted butter evenly over the water and cake mix layer. The butter will help create a golden, crispy top as it bakes.
4. Bake the Cake
- Place the dump cake in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. The rhubarb should be tender, and the cake should have a crispy, golden-brown crust.
- Once baked, remove the rhubarb dump cake from the oven and allow it to cool on the counter for 15 minutes before serving. This cooling time allows the flavors to meld together and the cake to set.
Serving and Enjoying Rhubarb Dump Cake
Rhubarb Dump Cake is best served warm, allowing the tartness of the rhubarb to shine through the sweetness of the cake. You can enjoy it on its own, or add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgence. This dessert is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner, a holiday gathering, or a simple treat to enjoy on a cozy evening at home.
Tips and Variations for Rhubarb Dump Cake
– Choosing the Right Rhubarb:
For the best results, use fresh rhubarb. If fresh rhubarb isn’t available, frozen rhubarb can be a good substitute. Just be sure to thaw and drain it before using to prevent excess moisture in the cake.
– Adding a Twist:
For a different flavor profile, consider adding strawberries or raspberries to the rhubarb mixture. The berries complement the tartness of the rhubarb and add a beautiful color to the dessert.
– Storing Leftovers:
If you have leftovers, store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.
Nutritional Information and Details
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Calories: 114 kcal per serving
- Servings: 8-10 servings
Conclusion
Rhubarb Dump Cake is a simple, yet delightful dessert that captures the essence of spring and summer with its vibrant, tart flavor. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and yields impressive results. The combination of tart rhubarb, sweet cake, and a buttery, crispy top makes it a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
