Irresistible Apple Cranberry Christmas Dump Cake Recipe

There’s something magical about the holiday season, especially when you walk into a kitchen filled with the sweet aroma of baked apples and tart cranberries. The Apple Cranberry Christmas Dump Cake is like a warm hug in dessert form, with its gooey, buttery topping and a burst of flavor that dances on your taste buds. chocolate cherry dump cake This delightful treat not only looks festive but also captures the essence of cozy family gatherings, where laughter and love fill the air.

As the holidays approach, memories flood back of my mother whipping up something special in the kitchen while we decorated the tree. This cake was often her secret weapon, effortlessly bringing smiles to our faces. It’s perfect for those chilly winter evenings or as a finale to your holiday feast. Get ready for an explosion of flavors that will have you dreaming of sugarplums long after the last slice is gone.

Ingredients for Apple Cranberry Christmas Dump Cake

For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Lemon Shrimp Pasta recipe.

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Fresh Apples: Choose firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a balance of tartness and sweetness.
• Cranberries: You can use fresh or frozen cranberries; both add a lovely tangy contrast to the sweetness.
• Yellow Cake Mix: A box mix simplifies preparation and provides a fluffy texture.
• Butter: Use unsalted butter to avoid overwhelming the flavors; it adds richness to the topping.
• Cinnamon: This spice brings warmth and complements both apples and cranberries beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Apple Cranberry Christmas Dump Cake

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, grab a baking dish (9×13 inches works great) and lightly grease it with nonstick cooking spray.

Step 2: Prepare Your Fruit

Peel and chop the fresh apples into bite-sized pieces. If you’re using fresh cranberries, rinse them under cold water. In a bowl, mix together the apple pieces and cranberries along with some cinnamon for extra flavor.

Step 3: Layer the Fruit

Spread your apple-cranberry mixture evenly across the bottom of your greased baking dish. Make sure it’s nice and even because who likes uneven dessert?

Step 4: Add Cake Mix

Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over your fruit layer. This is where all that magic happens! No need to stir—just let it sit there looking pretty.

Step 5: Melt Butter

Melt your butter in the microwave or on the stove until it’s completely liquid. Pour it evenly over the top of the cake mix layer. Don’t worry if some spots look drier than others; they’ll get their chance to shine while baking!

Step 6: Bake

Place your masterpiece in the oven for about 45-50 minutes or until golden brown on top. The smell wafting through your house will have everyone asking when dessert is served!

Finally, once baked, let it cool slightly before serving warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch. Transfer to plates and enjoy every delicious bite!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Layer the sliced apples and cranberries in a greased baking dish. Sprinkle sugar and cinnamon over the fruit. Finally, top it with dry cake mix and drizzle melted butter over everything for that golden finish.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out apples for pears or add nuts for crunch. Want a twist? Try adding a splash of orange juice or a sprinkle of nutmeg to enhance those holiday flavors. Get creative; your taste buds will thank you.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave for 30-45 seconds or bake at 350°F until warmed through. Enjoy that cozy aroma all over again!

The first time I made this Apple Cranberry Christmas Dump Cake, my family devoured it within minutes! The laughter and joy were as sweet as the dessert itself, making it a cherished holiday tradition ever since.

FAQs:

What is an Apple Cranberry Christmas Dump Cake?

The Apple Cranberry Christmas Dump Cake is a simple dessert that combines the flavors of apple and cranberry. It features layers of fruit topped with a cake mix, which creates a delightful and easy-to-make dessert. This dish is perfect for holiday gatherings, as it requires minimal preparation while offering a warm, comforting taste that everyone will enjoy.

How do I serve Apple Cranberry Christmas Dump Cake?

To serve Apple Cranberry Christmas Dump Cake, scoop generous portions into bowls or onto plates. You can enhance the presentation by adding a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. Drizzling caramel sauce over the cake also adds a touch of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the tart cranberries.

Can I make Apple Cranberry Christmas Dump Cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Apple Cranberry Christmas Dump Cake ahead of time. Simply assemble the ingredients and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Make sure to cover it well to keep it fresh. When ready to serve, bake according to your recipe instructions for a fresh-out-of-the-oven treat.

What variations can I try with this dump cake recipe?

You can experiment with different fruits in your Apple Cranberry Christmas Dump Cake. Consider incorporating pears or cherries for added flavor. Additionally, you can use flavored cake mixes like spice or butter pecan to give your cake a unique twist. spiced pear dump cake Adding nuts or oatmeal on top can provide extra texture and crunch.

Conclusion for Apple Cranberry Christmas Dump Cake:

In summary, the Apple Cranberry Christmas Dump Cake offers a festive and delicious dessert option that is easy to prepare and sure to impress guests during the holiday season. Combining sweet apples with tart cranberries creates a perfect balance of flavors. festive candy cane cookies Whether served warm with ice cream or enjoyed on its own, this cake is bound to become a favorite at any holiday gathering. Don’t hesitate to try variations for even more delightful options! For more inspiration, check out this Easter Shortbread Cookies recipe.