Cranberry Cobbler Dump Cake

Name: Cranberry Cobbler Dump Cake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 2.5 cups cranberries (fresh or frozen); 1 cup sugar (granulated); 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz); 1 stick butter (melted)

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By: Maria
Posted: 05/19/2025

One of the easiest and most delightful desserts to enjoy during the holiday season is the Cranberry Cobbler Dump Cake. With just a few simple ingredients, this recipe offers a burst of tangy cranberries mingled with a sweet, buttery cake mix. It’s the perfect solution for last-minute holiday gatherings or weeknight cravings. Be prepared to impress family and friends with minimal effort!

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When I was growing up, this dessert was a staple at family gatherings. My grandmother always proudly served her version with a scoop of homemade vanilla Ice Cream. I remember hovering around the kitchen, drawn by the sweet aroma that filled the house, eagerly waiting for the first bite. Those warm family memories are forever linked to this simple yet comforting recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cranberry Cobbler Dump Cake is perfect for those who love quick, no-fuss cooking. No mixer or complicated techniques are required—just layer and bake. Its unique combination of tangy cranberries and warm, buttery cake creates a delightful contrast that everyone will adore. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that can be made with different fruits or toppings to suit any palate.

Ingredients Notes

To make this delicious dessert, you will need fresh or frozen cranberries, yellow Cake Mix, unsalted butter, and sugar. If you can, opt for organic cranberries as they tend to have a richer flavor. Don’t have a yellow cake mix? A white cake mix will work similarly well. Just make sure the butter is cold—this helps in creating a crisp, golden topping.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread the cranberries evenly. Sprinkle with sugar according to your desired sweetness level.

Step 2

Evenly distribute the dry cake mix over the cranberries. Do not mix the cranberries and cake mix together.

Step 3

Slice the cold butter into thin pieces and arrange them evenly over the surface of the cake mix. This will ensure an even, crispy golden crust.

Step 4

Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cranberry juices are bubbling along the edges.

Step 5

Allow the cake to cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. This helps the juices to settle, making serving easier and neater.

Storage Options

Leftovers can be covered and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you prefer to freeze, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through.

Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to experiment with this recipe! Substitute cranberries with blueberries or mixed berries for a different flavor profile. Gluten-free cake mix can be used if you have dietary restrictions. For a nutty twist, sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans over the butter before baking.

Serving Suggestions

This delightful dessert is best served warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla Ice Cream or a dollop of whipped cream. It’s a perfect ending to holiday dinners or a sweet treat at afternoon gatherings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of fruit?
Absolutely! While cranberries offer a great tartness, you can substitute them with blueberries, strawberries, or even cherries, depending on the season.

What if I don’t have butter?
Butter is essential for the rich flavor, but in a pinch, you can use margarine. However, the taste and texture might vary slightly.

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
With a few adjustments, yes! Use a vegan cake mix and replace butter with a vegan alternative like coconut oil or vegan margarine.

Whether you’re making it for a cozy family night in or wowing guests at a holiday gathering, this cranberry Cobbler Dump Cake promises to be a crowd-pleaser. Its simplicity paired with a complex flavor profile makes it a dessert worth returning to again and again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the Cranberry Cobbler Dump Cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the cobbler a few hours in advance and store it, unbaked, in the refrigerator. Add the butter just before baking to prevent the cake mix from absorbing too much moisture. For longer storage, you can bake the cobbler and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze it for up to 2 months, ensuring it’s wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn.

What are some good ingredient substitutions for this recipe?

You can easily substitute the cranberries with an equal amount of blueberries, strawberries, or a mixed berry blend. If you don’t have yellow cake mix, a white cake mix works just as well. In a pinch, you can replace the unsalted butter with margarine, but the flavor and texture will be slightly different. For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free cake mix.

How do I know when the Cranberry Cobbler Dump Cake is perfectly baked?

The cobbler is done when the top is golden brown and the cranberry juices are bubbling around the edges of the baking dish. The cake mix should be fully baked and not doughy. A toothpick inserted into the cake mix should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. The internal temperature should be around 200-210°F (93-99°C).

Can I double or triple this Cranberry Cobbler Dump Cake recipe?

Yes, you can scale up the recipe. For a doubled recipe, use a larger baking dish, such as a 9×13 inch pan, or two 9×13 inch pans. You might need to slightly increase the baking time, checking for doneness around 5-10 minutes after the original baking time. Adjust the amount of sugar based on your preference and the tartness of the cranberries.

What are the nutritional highlights of this Cranberry Cobbler Dump Cake?

The main nutritional benefits come from the cranberries, which are rich in antioxidants and Vitamin C. The butter provides fat for flavor and texture, while the cake mix contributes carbohydrates. While this is a dessert, it can be a part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. The specific nutritional content will vary based on the ingredients used.