why make this recipe
Christmas Dump Cake is a delightful blend of flavors and festive spirit. It’s simple to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy holiday gatherings. The combination of cherry pie filling and crushed pineapple provides a unique twist, while the cake mix brings a comforting texture.
This dessert is ideal for anyone looking for a stress-free treat that still wows family and guests. Plus, it’s so easy that even novice bakers can impress during the holiday season.
equipment needed for Christmas Dump Cake
To make your Christmas Dump Cake, you will need a few basic kitchen tools. A 9 by 13 inch baking dish is essential for holding all delicious layers. You will also need mixing bowls for blending the ingredients. A whisk or spoon will help combine everything effectively.
Gather measuring cups for precision, as well as a spatula for spreading. Finally, don’t forget to have an oven mitt handy for when it’s time to take your cake out of the oven.
What You Need to Make Christmas Dump Cake
- 1 (21 oz) can cherry pie filling
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple (with juice)
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar
- Red and green holiday sprinkles, for topping after baking
How to Cook Christmas Dump Cake Step by Step
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). While it’s heating up, grease your 9 by 13 inch baking dish with a little butter or cooking spray to ensure that your cake doesn’t stick.
In a medium bowl, take half of the dry yellow cake mix and mix it with 1/4 cup of the melted butter. Once everything is combined, press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This will serve as the base for your dump cake and will help hold all the toppings together.
Next, take the cherry pie filling and spoon it evenly across the cake mixture. Make sure to cover the entire surface so every bite is bursting with cherry flavor.
After the cherry layer, open the can of crushed pineapple and pour this over the cherry filling, juice included. The pineapple adds a juicy sweetness and a tropical touch that’s quite unexpected.
Once your fruit layers are in place, sprinkle the ground cinnamon evenly over the top. If you’re using nutmeg, add that in as well. Then sprinkle the light brown sugar on top to create a lovely caramelized flavor as the cake bakes.
In a separate bowl, mix the remaining dry cake mix with the rest of the melted butter until you achieve a crumbly texture. This will be the topping for your dump cake. Sprinkle this crumbly mixture generously over the fruit layers in your baking dish.
Now it’s time to bake! Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and allow it to bake for about 45 to 50 minutes. You want the top to be golden brown, and you may see some bubbling around the edges, which is a great sign that everything is cooking nicely.
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for about 15 minutes. This cooling time will help the cake settle and makes it easier to serve. Before you dive in, feel free to sprinkle some festive red and green holiday sprinkles on top for a fun touch.
how to make Christmas Dump Cake
Making Christmas Dump Cake is a straightforward process that anyone can succeed at. Begin by gathering all your ingredients and equipment to streamline your cooking experience. This not only saves time but also helps ensure you don’t forget any essential elements.
As outlined in the cooking steps, the most crucial part of this recipe is layering. Start with the cake base, then the pie filling, followed by the pineapple, and finish with the crumb topping.
Mixing the ingredients well will guarantee even flavors throughout your cake. The magic happens in the oven as each layer melds together, creating a delightful dessert.
You can also prepare your ingredients ahead of time, making this dessert even more convenient during the busy holiday season. With everything prepped, you’ll only need to assemble it when you’re ready to bake.
how to serve Christmas Dump Cake
Serving Christmas Dump Cake can add to the festive atmosphere of your gathering. Cut the cake into squares, keeping the layers intact for a beautiful presentation. You can serve this dessert warm or at room temperature, depending on your preference.
For extra indulgence, consider adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top of each serving. This creamy addition balances the sweetness of the cake while enhancing the overall flavor.
Don’t forget to showcase the colorful holiday sprinkles you added after baking, as they create a cheerful visual appeal.
If you’re hosting a buffet, set the dump cake in an appealing dish, allowing guests to serve themselves. Be sure to have serving utensils and small plates available for easy access.
what to serve with Christmas Dump Cake
Pairing your Christmas Dump Cake with complementary side dishes can create a more rounded holiday meal. A light and fresh salad, such as a spinach salad with balsamic vinaigrette, can balance the sweetness of the cake.
You might also consider serving a warm beverage, like spiced apple cider or hot chocolate. Both drinks pair wonderfully with the fruity flavors of the dump cake and offer a cozy touch to your gathering.
For a more festive touch, mix some festive cheese platters with seasonal fruits. The combination of sweet and savory will tantalize everyone’s taste buds and keep your guests wanting more.
how to store Christmas Dump Cake
Storing your Christmas Dump Cake is quite easy. If you have any leftovers, allow the cake to cool completely before covering it. You can use plastic wrap or aluminum foil to seal the dish tightly, keeping it fresh.
You can also transfer individual squares to an airtight container. This makes for convenient snacking later and helps maintain the cake’s moisture.
Stored properly, your dump cake can last in the refrigerator for about 3 to 5 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing portions. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months, allowing you to enjoy this sweet treat at a later date.
tips to make Christmas Dump Cake
To ensure your Christmas Dump Cake turns out perfectly, there are a few helpful tips to keep in mind. First, make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for optimal mixing.
When pressing the cake mix base into the baking dish, be firm but careful not to compact it too tightly. This will allow the base to bake properly while still holding together any toppings.
If you prefer a more fruity flavor, feel free to adjust the amounts of cherry filling or pineapple. You can add additional flavors through spices, like nutmeg or cloves, for a more aromatic experience.
Always check the cake towards the end of the baking time. If it’s not quite golden brown, give it additional minutes, checking frequently to avoid overbaking.
variation
There are several fun variations you can try with Christmas Dump Cake. For a chocolate twist, substitute yellow cake mix with a chocolate cake mix and replace the fruit layers with chocolate pudding.
Another variation is to include additional fruits, like blueberries or raspberries, for a mixed berry dump cake. You can also use different pie fillings, such as apple or peach, depending on your taste preferences.
For an extra crunchy texture, add chopped nuts to the topping before baking. This will give the cake a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft cake and fruit layers.
best time to make Christmas Dump Cake
Christmas Dump Cake is perfect for holiday parties and gatherings, but you can really make it any time of the year. The best time to whip up this delightful dessert is likely in the weeks leading up to Christmas.
This ensures you have a festive treat available for guests and is a fantastic option for potlucks or family get-togethers. Additionally, the convenience of making it ahead of time means you have less to worry about on the actual day.
If you decide to freeze portions, you can even prepare it a month ahead and have it ready to serve anytime you want to indulge in holiday cheer.
common mistakes to avoid
When making Christmas Dump Cake, there are some common mistakes to keep an eye out for. One mistake is not greasing the baking dish adequately, which can lead to sticking and tearing when serving.
Overmixing the batter can also lead to a dense cake base that does not rise as well. Gentle mixing is key to keeping your dump cake light and airy.
Be cautious with your oven temperature as well. Overbaking can lead to a dry cake, while underbaking might leave you with a soggy base. Keeping an eye on your cake as it bakes can help you achieve the perfect texture.
nutritional notes
While Christmas Dump Cake is a delightful dessert, it’s important to note its rich ingredients. The combination of cake mix, pie filling, and butter adds up, making this treat quite indulgent.
Moderation is key to enjoying this dessert while maintaining a balanced diet. If you’re looking for lighter options, consider using reduced-fat butter or substituting part of the sugar.
Serious foodies might also want to delve into using whole grain flour to make the cake mix or incorporating less sweet toppings to balance the flavors.
FAQs
Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned pie filling?
Yes, you can use fresh fruit if you prefer. Just make sure to add a little sugar to sweeten the fruit, as canned pie filling has added sweetness.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it in the oven before serving if desired.
Is it necessary to use the sprinkles?
The sprinkles are purely for decorative purposes. You can leave them out if you prefer a more rustic presentation or don’t have them on hand.
conclusion
Christmas Dump Cake is the epitome of a simple yet satisfying dessert that embodies the spirit of the holidays. With its easy preparation and delightful flavors, it invites everyone to join in and celebrate.
Whether you’re looking to impress guests or treat your family, this cake is sure to be a hit. Make it part of your holiday traditions, and it’s bound to bring joy and deliciousness to your table year after year.
