Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Rhubarb Dump Cake is ideal for anyone who loves fruity desserts without the fuss. It’s quick to prepare, using basic pantry ingredients, yet delivers big flavor with a tangy rhubarb base and a buttery, crumbly topping. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or preparing a cozy treat for yourself, this cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s versatile enough to enjoy warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or serve it as is for a light and delightful dessert.

Ingredients

4 cups of fresh rhubarb, chopped
1 cup of granulated sugar
1 box of yellow cake mix
1 stick of butter, melted
½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Spread the chopped rhubarb evenly in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Sprinkle the granulated sugar over the rhubarb.
Evenly sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over the sugar-coated rhubarb. Do not stir or mix.
Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the cake mix.
Optionally, sprinkle ground cinnamon over the top for added flavor.
Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Allow it to cool slightly before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe makes 8-10 servings, depending on portion size.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 45-50 minutes
Total time: 55-60 minutes

Variations

Fruit Mix: You can mix rhubarb with other fruits like strawberries or raspberries to create a mixed berry version of this dump cake.
Topping Choices: Add a handful of chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the topping for added texture.
Cake Mix Flavor: Experiment with different cake mix flavors like spice or vanilla cake mix for a different twist.
Sweeteners: For a less sugary option, substitute the granulated sugar with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetness.
Coconut: Sprinkle shredded coconut over the cake mix for an added tropical flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover Rhubarb Dump Cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days, or in the fridge for up to a week.
Reheating: To reheat, simply microwave individual servings for 20-30 seconds or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen rhubarb for this recipe?

Yes, frozen rhubarb can be used, but make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the dish to avoid excess moisture.

2. Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free cake mix to make this dessert gluten-free.

3. How do I make the cake mix more flavorful?

Add vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to the cake mix for an extra burst of flavor.

4. Can I substitute the yellow cake mix with another flavor?

Absolutely! A white or spice cake mix would also work well, depending on your flavor preference.

5. How do I know when the dump cake is done?

The dump cake is done when the top is golden brown and bubbly. You can also insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, it’s ready.

6. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. It may need a few extra minutes in the oven to warm through.

7. Is it possible to make a smaller portion?

Yes, you can halve the recipe and use a smaller baking dish (like an 8×8-inch pan) for fewer servings.

8. Can I use other fruits besides rhubarb?

Yes, other tart fruits like apples or cherries can be used, but adjust the sugar quantity based on the fruit’s sweetness.

9. Do I need to mix the ingredients together?

No, this is a “dump cake,” meaning you simply layer the ingredients in the baking dish without mixing.

10. Can I add whipped cream or ice cream?

Yes, this cake is delicious when served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Conclusion

Rhubarb Dump Cake is a delightful dessert that’s quick to prepare, making it a great choice for both novice and seasoned bakers. With just a few ingredients, you can create a warm, comforting treat that’s perfect for any season. The blend of tart rhubarb and sweet cake topping is simply irresistible, and the best part is that it’s low on effort and high on flavor. Enjoy this cake as a standalone treat, or pair it with ice cream for a truly indulgent experience!