There’s something truly magical about a dessert that’s as effortless as it is delicious, and this Rhubarb Dump Cake Recipe fits that bill perfectly. Combining the tart brightness of rhubarb with the sweet, aromatic layers of strawberry gelatin and buttery cake mix, this dessert creates an irresistible harmony of flavors and textures. Whether you’re whipping it up for a casual family gathering or a spontaneous treat, this Rhubarb Dump Cake Recipe stands out as a cozy, crowd-pleasing favorite you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Rhubarb Dump Cake Recipe calls for simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create an extraordinary dessert. Each component plays a key role in crafting the rich flavor profile and luscious texture that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Chopped rhubarb (4 cups): Provides the tangy, juicy base that balances sweetness perfectly.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the tart rhubarb, ensuring a harmonious flavor.
- Strawberry gelatin package (3 oz): Adds a lovely fruity aroma and a hint of strawberry brightness.
- Yellow cake mix (15.25 oz box): Creates the soft, golden topping that bakes to perfection.
- Melted butter (3/4 cup): Infuses richness and helps form the cake’s crisp, buttery crust.
- Water (1/2 cup): Keeps the mixture moist and ensures everything bakes just right.
- Optional whipped cream or vanilla ice cream: Perfect accompaniments to elevate each serving.
How to Make Rhubarb Dump Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This step is important to prevent sticking and helps the dump cake come out cleanly when served.
Step 2: Layer the Rhubarb
Spread the chopped fresh or frozen rhubarb evenly across the bottom of your prepared dish. This tart, juicy layer forms the heart of the cake and sets the stage for the sweet, fruity explosion to come.
Step 3: Sprinkle Sweeteners
Sprinkle the granulated sugar evenly over the rhubarb, then add the dry strawberry gelatin on top. This combination delivers a touch of sweetness and a vibrant color that brings the dessert to life.
Step 4: Add the Cake Mix
Evenly sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over the gelatin layer. Important tip: don’t stir the layers—this untouched top layer will bake into a golden, crumbly crust that contrasts beautifully with the tender filling.
Step 5: Drizzle Butter and Water
Pour the melted butter evenly across the cake mix, allowing it to soak through and create that irresistible crisp texture. Then, drizzle the water on top to keep everything moist and help the ingredients meld during baking.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, until the top has turned a beautiful golden brown and bubbles are visible around the edges. You can test doneness by inserting a toothpick into the cake portion—it should come out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow your Rhubarb Dump Cake to cool just slightly before serving so the filling sets a bit but remains warm and inviting. Top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if you want to add a creamy touch that melts into each bite.
How to Serve Rhubarb Dump Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream brings a silky smoothness that pairs wonderfully with the cake’s tart and buttery nature. For an extra pop of freshness, sprinkle chopped toasted almonds or a few fresh berries on top for color and crunch.
Side Dishes
This delightful dessert stands well on its own, but if you want to build a whole meal around it, consider serving with a light salad or simple roasted chicken. The Rhubarb Dump Cake Recipe makes a perfect sweet finale to a down-to-earth, flavorful feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the cake in individual ramekins or parfait glasses layered with extra whipped cream and fresh fruit. Alternatively, turn leftovers into a trifle by layering with custard or yogurt and a sprinkle of granola for textural contrast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Rhubarb Dump Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze the cake for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This helps maintain the texture and flavor beautifully.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 30 seconds to warm the cake without drying it out. For larger portions, cover with foil and warm in a 325°F oven until heated through and bubbling again.
FAQs
Can I use frozen rhubarb in this Rhubarb Dump Cake Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen rhubarb works just as well as fresh. Just make sure to thaw it and drain any excess liquid before layering to keep the cake from becoming too soggy.
Is it essential to use strawberry gelatin in this recipe?
Strawberry gelatin adds a lovely fruity flavor and color, but if you prefer, you can experiment with other flavors like raspberry or even skip it to highlight the rhubarb’s natural tartness.
Can I substitute the yellow cake mix for a gluten-free one?
Yes! Many gluten-free cake mixes will work fine here—just choose one with a similar texture and follow the same steps for best results.
Why don’t I stir the layers before baking?
Leaving the layers untouched creates a beautiful contrast between the bubbly fruit base and the crisp, golden cake topping that is the signature feature of a dump cake.
Can I prepare this cake in advance?
You can assemble the cake a few hours before baking and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Just bake it when ready to enjoy, and it will be fresh and delicious!
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as simple as it is scrumptious, this Rhubarb Dump Cake Recipe is your new best friend. It comes together effortlessly but delivers layers of buttery, fruity, and sweet flavors that feel like a warm hug on a plate. Give it a try soon—you might just find this easy recipe becoming a beloved staple in your kitchen!
Print
Rhubarb Dump Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 55-60 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
A simple and delicious Rhubarb Dump Cake featuring tart rhubarb layered with sugar, strawberry gelatin, and topped with yellow cake mix and melted butter. Baked until golden and bubbly, this dessert is perfect served warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Ingredients
Filling
- 4 cups chopped fresh or frozen rhubarb
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 (3 oz) package strawberry gelatin (Jell-O)
Topping
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 3/4 cup melted butter
- 1/2 cup water
For Serving (Optional)
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the rhubarb layer: Spread the chopped fresh or frozen rhubarb evenly over the bottom of the greased baking dish, forming an even layer.
- Add sugar and gelatin: Sprinkle the granulated sugar evenly over the rhubarb, then evenly spread the dry strawberry gelatin powder over the sugar layer.
- Top with cake mix: Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the gelatin layer. Avoid stirring to maintain layered texture.
- Add melted butter and water: Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the cake mix to moisten it. Then pour the 1/2 cup of water over the top to further help moisten the mixture.
- Bake the cake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown, bubbly, and a toothpick inserted into the cake portion comes out clean.
- Cool and serve: Allow the dump cake to cool slightly before serving. For added indulgence, serve warm with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream if desired.
Notes
- You can use either fresh or frozen rhubarb depending on availability.
- Do not stir the layers; keeping them separate creates the characteristic texture of a dump cake.
- Serve warm for the best flavor experience, but leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated.
- Substitute vanilla cake mix if yellow cake mix is unavailable, though flavor will slightly vary.
- Adding whipped cream or ice cream enhances the dessert with creamy contrast.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
