When it comes to desserts, few things can beat the combination of strawberries and rhubarb. And if you're short on time or can't find fresh fruit, don't worry! This strawberry - rhubarb dump cake is just as delicious when made with frozen fruit. With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can bake up a sweet and satisfying dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Let's start by gathering the ingredients. You'll need a package of frozen strawberries, a package of frozen rhubarb, a box of yellow cake mix, a stick of butter, and some sugar. The frozen strawberries and rhubarb provide the perfect base for this cake, offering a burst of flavor that is both sweet and tart.
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 - inch baking dish. This step is crucial as it ensures that your dump cake doesn't stick to the dish and makes for easy cleanup later on.
Next, take the frozen strawberries and rhubarb and place them in the greased baking dish. Sprinkle about 1/2 cup of sugar over the fruit. The sugar will help to bring out the natural juices of the fruit and add an extra layer of sweetness. Stir the fruit gently to make sure the sugar is evenly distributed.
Now, it's time to add the cake mix. Pour the entire box of yellow cake mix over the fruit. You don't need to mix it with anything else; just let it sit on top of the fruit. The dry cake mix will absorb some of the fruit juices as it bakes, creating a delicious crust.
Slice the stick of butter into small pieces and place them evenly over the top of the cake mix. The butter will melt as the cake bakes, adding a rich and buttery flavor to the entire dessert. You can also sprinkle a little more sugar on top for an extra crunch if you like.
Once everything is in place, put the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for about 45 - 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling. You can check by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is done.
While the cake is baking, you can think about the different ways you can serve it. You can serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The cold ice cream will contrast beautifully with the warm, sweet cake, creating a perfect balance of temperatures and flavors. You can also add a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of decadence.
This strawberry - rhubarb dump cake is not only easy to make but also very versatile. You can adjust the amount of sugar according to your taste preferences. If you like it sweeter, you can add a little more sugar; if you prefer a more tart flavor, you can reduce the amount of sugar.
It's also a great dessert to make when you have guests over. You can prepare it in advance and just pop it in the oven when it's time to serve. It's sure to be a hit at any gathering, whether it's a family dinner, a birthday party, or a casual get - together with friends.
In conclusion, this strawberry - rhubarb dump cake is a must - try dessert. It's quick, easy, and incredibly delicious. So, the next time you're in the mood for a sweet treat, give this recipe a go. You won't be disappointed!
