Cranberry Apple Dump Cake with Pecan Topping is a delightful dessert that combines tart cranberries and sweet apples, topped with a crunchy pecan crust. Perfect for any gathering! This easy recipe is a fantastic choice for both casual weeknight dinners and festive occasions. The best part? It requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor, making it a true crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into how to make this scrumptious treat!
Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Apple Dump Cake
This Cranberry Apple Dump Cake is not just another dessert; it’s a delicious experience. Here’s why you’ll adore it:
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it a great choice for busy days.
- Perfect blend of tart and sweet flavors from the cranberries and apples.
- Versatile for any occasion—be it Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a simple family dinner.
- Requires just a few simple ingredients, which are often pantry staples.
- Can be served warm or cold, with or without ice cream!
- Offers a delightful crunch from the pecan topping that complements the fruit beautifully.
- Suitable for vegetarians, making it an inclusive dessert choice.
- A great way to sneak in some fruit into your dessert!
Ingredients for Cranberry Apple Dump Cake
Gather these items:
- 4 cups fresh apples, sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
How to Make Cranberry Apple Dump Cake Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced apples and cranberries. Sprinkle in sugar and cinnamon, mixing well.
- Step 3: Spread the fruit mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Step 4: Evenly sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over the fruit layer—no need to mix!
- Step 5: Scatter chopped pecans over the cake mix.
- Step 6: Drizzle melted butter generously over all layers.
- Step 7: Bake in preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown on top and bubbly.
- Step 8: Allow to cool slightly before serving, optionally topped with vanilla ice cream.
Pro Tips for the Best Cranberry Apple Dump Cake
Keep these in mind:
- Use fresh cranberries for the best flavor; frozen can work but may alter the texture.
- Feel free to add other fruits such as pears for a twist on the traditional flavor.
- This recipe can be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free cake mix.
- Always ensure the apples are well-coated with sugar and cinnamon for optimum flavor.
Best Ways to Serve Cranberry Apple Dump Cake
Here are some serving ideas:
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert.
- Top with whipped cream for a light and airy finish.
- Pair with a cup of coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
How to Store and Reheat Cranberry Apple Dump Cake
To store your Cranberry Apple Dump Cake, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave for a quick treat, or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This makes it a great option for meal prep!
Frequently Asked Questions About Cranberry Apple Dump Cake
What’s the secret to perfect Cranberry Apple Dump Cake?
The secret lies in the balance of flavors and textures. Make sure to use tart apples and fresh cranberries to create a delightful contrast with the sweet cake mix and crunchy pecans.
Can I make Cranberry Apple Dump Cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the layers in advance and assemble them just before baking. This is convenient for holiday meals or gatherings.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Cranberry Apple Dump Cake?
To avoid mistakes, ensure that the fruit is evenly spread and the cake mix is not overly packed down. Also, monitor baking time to prevent over-baking.
Variations of Cranberry Apple Dump Cake You Can Try
If you want to switch things up, consider these variations:
- Try adding a layer of chopped walnuts for a different nutty flavor.
- Use different fruits like blueberries or peaches for a seasonal twist.
- Make it a Gluten-Free Cranberry Apple Dump Cake by using a gluten-free cake mix.
- For a more festive touch, incorporate spices like nutmeg or ginger into the fruit mixture.
For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making Cranberry Orange Pancakes for a delightful breakfast option!
For tips on how to choose the best apples, visit Healthline for more information.
Print
Delicious Cranberry Apple Dump Cake with Pecan Topping
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cranberry Apple Dump Cake with Pecan Topping is a delightful dessert that combines tart cranberries and sweet apples, topped with a crunchy pecan crust. Perfect for any gathering!
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh apples, sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced apples and cranberries. Sprinkle in sugar and cinnamon, mixing well.
- Spread the fruit mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Evenly sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over the fruit layer—no need to mix!
- Scatter chopped pecans over the cake mix.
- Drizzle melted butter generously over all layers.
- Bake in preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown on top and bubbly.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving, optionally topped with vanilla ice cream.
Notes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Cranberry Apple Dump Cake
