Easy Irresistible Rhubarb Dump Cake Recipe Perfect for One-Pan Baking
A quick and easy rhubarb dump cake that combines tart rhubarb with a sweet, crispy yellow cake topping, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Total Time: 50-55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups fresh or frozen rhubarb, chopped
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 box yellow cake mix (about 15.25 oz / 432 g)
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Chop about 4 cups of fresh or thawed rhubarb into roughly 1/2-inch pieces. In a large mixing bowl, toss the rhubarb with 3/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (if using), and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to macerate.
- Transfer the rhubarb mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
- Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the rhubarb layer without stirring.
- Drizzle 1/2 cup (1 stick) melted unsalted butter evenly over the cake mix, spreading if needed to cover all corners.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes until the topping is golden brown and fruit is bubbling. If the top browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil after 30 minutes.
- Let the cake cool for at least 15 minutes before serving.
Notes
Use fresh rhubarb if possible for better flavor and texture. If using frozen rhubarb, thaw and drain well to avoid sogginess. Do not stir after sprinkling cake mix to maintain layers. If the topping browns too fast, tent with foil. Cooling the cake before serving helps thicken the juices. Optional: sprinkle powdered sugar on top before serving to soften tartness. Variations include adding berries, nuts, or using gluten-free cake mix.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of cak
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 25
- Sodium: 180
- Fat: 7
- Saturated Fat: 4
- Carbohydrates: 38
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 2
Keywords: rhubarb dump cake, easy dessert, one-pan baking, rhubarb recipe, quick cake, yellow cake mix dessert, comfort food