Christmas Dump Cake Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the sweet, spiced aroma of a festive dessert baking in the oven to bring the holiday season to life. This Christmas dump cake recipe is one of my absolute favorites, not just because it tastes incredible, but because it’s so ridiculously easy to make. We’re talking minimal prep, maximum holiday cheer, and a warm, gooey dessert that will have everyone at your holiday table begging for seconds.

What makes this recipe special is how it combines classic holiday flavors—sweet apples, tart cranberries, and a cinnamon crumble topping—all baked into one cozy, bubbling dish. The best part? No complicated steps, no long hours in the kitchen, and no fancy equipment. Just dump, bake, and enjoy!

this RECIPE

A holiday memory tied to this cake

The first time I made this Christmas dump cake was during a snowy Christmas Eve at my grandparents’ house. I was tasked with making dessert, but I’d totally underestimated how busy the day would be (wrapping last-minute gifts, corralling the kids, and keeping the dog away from the tree!). By the time I got around to dessert, I was desperate for something easy yet impressive.

Enter this dump cake. It was a lifesaver. I threw it together in 10 minutes while the rest of the family was singing carols in the living room. As it baked, the house filled with the warm, cinnamon-laced scent of the holidays, and when I served it, topped with vanilla ice cream, you could hear the collective “mmm” around the table. It’s now a Christmas tradition, and every time I make it, it brings back those cozy, laughter-filled memories.

The origin story of dump cakes

Dump cakes are the epitome of “homey” desserts—they’re straightforward, forgiving, and always delicious. They’ve been a staple in American kitchens since the mid-20th century, when convenience foods like canned pie fillings and boxed cake mixes became popular. While traditional dump cakes often rely on a simple cake mix-and-fruit combo, this Christmas version takes it up a notch with a cinnamon swirl topping that feels extra special and festive.

The beauty of a dump cake is its flexibility. Over the years, home cooks have experimented with every imaginable fruit and cake mix combo. It’s the ultimate “pantry-friendly” dessert, and it always delivers that warm, comforting vibe we crave during the holidays.

Let’s talk ingredients: festive flavors made easy

This recipe is built around just a handful of simple, seasonal ingredients:

• Apple pie filling: Sweet, soft, and spiced, this is the heart of the dessert. If you’re feeling ambitious, you can use homemade apple pie filling, but the canned version is a fantastic shortcut.
• Cranberry sauce (whole berry): Adds a tart, tangy contrast to the apples. Can’t find whole berry sauce? You can use jellied cranberry sauce, though the texture will be smoother.
• Cinnamon swirl crumb cake mix: This mix creates the perfect crumbly topping with minimal effort. If you don’t have it on hand, a classic yellow cake mix with added cinnamon works well too.
• Unsalted butter: Melted butter ties the crumble topping together and gives it that rich, buttery flavor. Salted butter works in a pinch; just reduce added salt in the recipe.

When choosing your canned ingredients, look for options with no added artificial flavors or preservatives. They make a difference in the overall taste!

Kitchen gear you’ll need (and some you don’t!)

You won’t need much for this recipe, which is one of the reasons it’s so fantastic. Here’s what I recommend:

• 9×13-inch baking dish: This size ensures even baking and enough space for the layers to bubble away. If you don’t have this exact size, a similar-sized casserole dish works.
• Mixing bowl: For combining the cake mix and butter. A large bowl will save you from any spillage while mixing.
• Rubber spatula or spoon: For spreading the fruit layers and mixing the crumble topping.
• Measuring cups: To measure the butter (though eyeballing it works if you’re confident!).

That’s it! No fancy mixers or gadgets required.

Step-by-step: How to make this Christmas dump cake

1. Preheat the oven
   Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and let it warm up while you assemble everything. This is the perfect time to grab your ingredients and line them up.
2. Layer the fruit
   Start by pouring the apple pie filling into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula or spoon. Then, dollop the cranberry sauce on top. It doesn’t need to be perfect—swirls and uneven patches are totally fine. (They make each bite a surprise!)
3. Mix the crumble topping
   In a large bowl, combine the cinnamon swirl crumb cake mix and its accompanying cinnamon sugar topping. Drizzle in the melted butter and stir gently until the mixture becomes crumbly. Don’t overmix—it should look like chunky sand, not dough.
4. Assemble the layers
   Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the fruit layers. Don’t worry if some spots are heavier than others; it’ll even out in the oven as it bakes.
5. Bake to perfection
   Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and the fruit layers are bubbling at the edges. Your kitchen will smell like a holiday dream!
6. Cool and serve
   Let the cake cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This gives the layers a chance to set, making it easier to scoop out generous portions.

Variations to make this your own

This recipe is incredibly adaptable! Here are some fun twists to try:

• Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free cake mix and double-check your canned ingredients for gluten-containing additives.
• Vegan: Swap the butter for a plant-based alternative like vegan margarine or coconut oil. Ensure the cake mix doesn’t contain dairy.
• Spiced-up version: Add a teaspoon of nutmeg or ginger to the cake mix for extra holiday warmth.
• Berry swap: Substitute the cranberry sauce with cherry pie filling or frozen raspberries for a different flavor profile.
• Nutty crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the crumble topping before baking for a toasty, nutty texture.

How to serve and impress your guests

For a picture-perfect presentation, serve this dump cake warm in small dessert bowls. Top each serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A drizzle of caramel sauce wouldn’t hurt either!

Hosting a fancier gathering? Dust the top with powdered sugar and garnish with a sprig of fresh rosemary or a few sugared cranberries for a festive touch. Pair it with a simple side dish like spiced pecan brittle or gingerbread cookies for an indulgent dessert spread.

Drinks to pair with this dessert

• Hot drinks: A creamy mug of spiked eggnog or a cinnamon-spiced latte complements the cake’s flavors beautifully.
• Cold drinks: For a festive twist, serve it with sparkling apple cider or a chilled glass of Prosecco.
• Cocktail pairing: A cranberry mimosa or mulled wine would be my pick for holiday cheer in a glass!

Storing and reheating leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, cover the baking dish tightly with foil or transfer the cake to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, pop a portion into the microwave for 30-40 seconds or warm the entire dish in the oven at 325°F for about 10 minutes. This dessert is just as delicious the next day—if not more so!

Scaling the recipe up or down

Need to feed a crowd? Double the recipe and use a larger baking dish (or make two 9×13 pans). Cooking time may increase slightly, so keep an eye on the topping. For smaller gatherings, halve the recipe and use an 8×8-inch baking dish; the bake time will stay roughly the same.

Encouraging words to try it yourself

This Christmas dump cake is the kind of recipe that doesn’t just taste good—it feels good to make. Whether you’re juggling a hectic holiday schedule or simply want a no-fuss dessert, this cake is here for you. Give it a try, and don’t be afraid to make it your own. Trust me, once you serve that first warm, gooey bite, it’ll become a tradition in your home too.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh apples instead of canned filling?
Absolutely! Peel and slice about 4-5 medium apples, then toss them with sugar, cinnamon, and a little cornstarch before layering them in the dish.

2. Can I freeze this dump cake?
Yes! Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

3. What’s the best way to prevent a soggy bottom?
Make sure your fruit layers aren’t overly juicy. If using homemade fillings, cook them down slightly to thicken.

4. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, though butter gives the best flavor. If using margarine, stick to high-quality options for a similar richness.

5. Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely! The fruity filling and crumbly topping are a hit with kids. You can even let them sprinkle the crumble on top—it’s a fun way to get them involved!

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