Description
This Rhubarb Dump Cake is an easy-to-make, tangy-sweet dessert combining fresh or frozen rhubarb with a bright strawberry gelatin and a buttery cake topping. Perfect for summer gatherings, it requires minimal prep and yields a comforting, golden-baked treat that pairs beautifully with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Ingredients
Scale
Fruit Layer
- 4 cups fresh or frozen rhubarb, chopped
Sweeteners and Gelatin
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 (3-ounce) package strawberry gelatin (like Jell-O)
Cake Topping
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) yellow or white cake mix
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Layer rhubarb and sugar: Spread the chopped rhubarb evenly across the bottom of the prepared dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of granulated sugar over the rhubarb to sweeten and soften the fruit as it bakes.
- Add gelatin: Evenly sprinkle the dry strawberry gelatin over the sugared rhubarb. This adds fruity flavor and helps thicken the filling.
- Top with cake mix: Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the rhubarb and gelatin layer. Avoid stirring to maintain the layered structure that creates the signature dump cake texture.
- Drizzle butter and water: Pour the melted unsalted butter evenly over the dry cake mix, followed by 1/2 cup water. These liquids hydrate the cake mix and help it bake into a moist, golden topping.
- Bake the cake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. The top should turn golden brown, and the filling should bubble around the edges, indicating it’s cooked through.
- Cool and serve: Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving to let the filling thicken. Enjoy warm on its own or topped with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an indulgent finish.
Notes
- Frozen rhubarb works well—no need to thaw before using.
- Try using white cake mix for a lighter color or spice cake mix for a twist on flavor.
- This dessert is best served warm for the perfect combination of gooey filling and soft cake topping.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
