The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes the pressure to create delicious and impressive desserts for our loved ones. But what if you're short on time or not exactly the next pastry chef? Fear not, dear readers, for we have the perfect solution for you: the easy Christmas dump cake recipe that can be prepared in just 5 minutes!
Imagine a moist and flavorful cake, loaded with the sweetness of cherries and the warmth of cinnamon, all topped with a crunchy and buttery streusel topping. Sounds too good to be true? Trust us, it's not. This dump cake recipe is a game-changer for busy holiday hosts, and we're about to dive into the details.
What is a Dump Cake?
Before we dive into the recipe, let's quickly explain what a dump cake is. A dump cake is a type of dessert that involves "dumping" a mixture of ingredients into a baking dish and then topping it with a crunchy streusel topping. The result is a deliciously easy dessert that's perfect for potlucks, holiday gatherings, and even weeknight treats.
The Benefits of a Dump Cake
So, why should you consider making a dump cake for your holiday gathering? Here are just a few benefits:
- Easy to make: Dump cakes are incredibly simple to prepare, requiring minimal effort and time.
- Customizable: You can use a variety of different ingredients to create unique flavor combinations.
- Crowd-pleaser: Dump cakes are perfect for large gatherings, as they're easy to serve and feed a crowd.
- Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare the dump cake mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer until you're ready to bake.
Easy Christmas Dump Cake Recipe
Now that we've covered the basics, let's get to the good stuff – the recipe! Here's what you'll need:
Ingredients:
- 1 (15 oz) can of cherry pie filling
- 1 box of yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup of melted butter
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1 cup of chopped walnuts (optional)
- 1 cup of streusel topping (recipe below)
Streusel Topping:
- 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup of packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup of cold butter, cut into small pieces
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the cherry pie filling, melted butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir until well combined.
- Add the yellow cake mix to the bowl and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Fold in the chopped walnuts, if using.
- Pour the mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Top the mixture with the streusel topping (recipe below).
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the streusel topping is golden brown and the cake is set.
Streusel Topping:
- In a small bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and brown sugar.
- Add the cold butter to the bowl and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in the cinnamon.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to help you make the most of this recipe:
- Use different types of pie filling: Try using blueberry or apple pie filling for a different flavor combination.
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon: Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon on top of the streusel topping before baking for an extra boost of flavor.
- Use chopped pecans: Replace the walnuts with chopped pecans for a different texture and flavor.
- Make it a sundae bar: Serve the dump cake with a variety of toppings, such as whipped cream, ice cream, and chocolate sauce, and let everyone create their own sundae.
Common Questions
Here are a few common questions about dump cakes:
- Can I make a dump cake ahead of time?: Yes, you can prepare the dump cake mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer until you're ready to bake.
- Can I use a different type of cake mix?: Yes, you can use a different type of cake mix, such as chocolate or red velvet, to create a unique flavor combination.
- Can I make individual dump cakes?: Yes, you can make individual dump cakes using small ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets.
What is the best type of pie filling to use in a dump cake?
+The best type of pie filling to use in a dump cake is a matter of personal preference. However, cherry pie filling is a classic choice and pairs well with the yellow cake mix.
Can I make a dump cake without the streusel topping?
+Yes, you can make a dump cake without the streusel topping. Simply omit the streusel topping and bake the cake as directed.
How do I store a dump cake?
+Store a dump cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the cake for up to 2 months.
Final Thoughts
And there you have it, folks – a delicious and easy Christmas dump cake recipe that's perfect for the holiday season. Whether you're a busy host or just looking for a quick and easy dessert, this recipe is sure to please. So go ahead, give it a try, and let us know what you think!
Happy baking, and don't forget to share your creations with us on social media using the hashtag #dumpcakerecipe.