Rhubarb Dump Cake

It’s funny how a simple combination of ingredients can create such a delightful treat like Rhubarb Dump Cake. You might be surprised by how easy it is to make this dessert, as it requires no mixing at all. Just layer your ingredients and bake. If you’re curious about the history behind this dish or want to know more about the recipe itself, keep going to discover what makes this cake a must-try.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious dessert that’s easy to prepare, you’ll love this rhubarb dump cake recipe. It takes less than five minutes of your time, and you won’t need a mixer. Simply layer the ingredients in a baking dish, making cleanup a breeze. You can use fresh or frozen rhubarb, and feel free to swap in other fruits like berries or cherries, making it versatile for any occasion. This recipe also allows for sugar-free options and adjustments in sweetness to suit your taste. Plus, you can store it in the fridge for up to four days or freeze it for two months. A dump cake is perfect for making ahead and serving warm or chilled.

History

Rhubarb dump cake has an interesting history that combines the unique characteristics of rhubarb with the simplicity of the dump cake method.

Rhubarb, originally from ancient China, was mainly used for medicinal purposes before becoming popular in desserts. In the U.S., it’s legally classified as a fruit for tax reasons, despite being a vegetable. The fresh or frozen rhubarb used in this dessert highlights its versatility and accessibility.

The dump cake concept arose from the need for quick, easy desserts, requiring minimal mixing and prep time. It features layers of ingredients, making it simple to prepare.

Over time, rhubarb dump cake recipes evolved, often inspired by traditional pies and American baking practices. You can now find variations that include spices or other fruits, reflecting the dish’s adaptability and farmhouse cooking roots.

Recipe

Ingredients

Fresh or frozen rhubarb
Granulated sugar
Yellow cake mix
Cold water
Melted unsalted or salted butter

Cooking Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by greasing it with cooking spray or butter.
Evenly spread the rhubarb at the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Sprinkle granulated sugar over the rhubarb to enhance its sweetness.
Carefully pour the yellow cake mix over the sugar and rhubarb, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
Add cold water on top of the cake mix. Don’t stir or mix the ingredients.
Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the cake mix to promote even browning during baking.
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. Rhubarb season peaks for the best flavor, so be sure to enjoy it during that time!

For the best experience, serve your Rhubarb Dump Cake warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh whipped cream.

If you want to add an extra touch, consider decorating the top with additional rhubarb slices or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor.

Remember to discard any rhubarb roots and leaves, as they aren’t safe to consume. Enjoy your delightful dessert!

Final Thoughts

After enjoying the delicious Rhubarb Dump Cake, it’s helpful to reflect on what makes this dessert a favorite choice.

Its ease of preparation stands out—using minimal ingredients like rhubarb, sugar, and cake mix, you can whip it up in less than 10 minutes. There’s no mixing required; just layer the ingredients in a dish and let the oven do the work. In fact, you can use a white cake mix as an alternative to the traditional cake mix for added variety.

You can play around with flavors by adding strawberry jello or serving it with whipped cream. Remember, rhubarb is tart, so sugar balances its flavor perfectly.

Plus, leftovers are easy to store in the fridge or freezer. Overall, this dessert isn’t only simple but also deliciously satisfying, making it a great option for any occasion.

FAQ

When you’re making Rhubarb Dump Cake, you might’ve some questions about the process or ingredients. You can definitely use frozen rhubarb, but make certain it’s fully thawed first. For the best results, stick with granulated sugar. If you want to get creative, feel free to add ingredients like strawberries or a sprinkle of cinnamon. Just remember to discard the toxic leaves and roots of the rhubarb. Bake your cake for 45 to 55 minutes, watching for a golden top and a clean toothpick. Use a 9 by 13-inch baking dish, and guarantee the butter is evenly poured over the cake mix for even cooking. Check for any dry spots before baking to ensure your cake cooks evenly. Enjoy your delicious creation!