Easy Christmas Dump Cake Recipe: Your Go-To Festive Dessert

The holiday season calls for delicious treats that are both impressive and incredibly easy to make. Look no further than this delightful Christmas Dump Cake! It’s a truly effortless dessert that combines the cozy flavors of spice cake with the bright, tangy notes of cranberry sauce. Crowned with crunchy pecans, this recipe is guaranteed to bring a generous helping of holiday cheer to your table, making it a perfect centerpiece for any festive celebration or casual family gathering.

Among all the cake recipes, a dump cake truly stands out for its simplicity and incredible flavor. This festive version has become a beloved tradition in our home, gracing our Christmas celebrations year after year. Its popularity stems from its minimal preparation and maximum deliciousness. Not only is it a fantastic dessert for your own family, but this holiday dump cake is also an absolute winner for potlucks, office parties, or any event where you need to feed a crowd without the stress of complicated baking.

If you enjoy the ease and versatility of dump cakes, you might also love our other simple creations like the Cherry Dump Cake Recipe and the rich Chocolate Cherry Dump Cake Recipe. Each offers a unique flavor profile while maintaining the signature “dump and bake” convenience that makes these desserts so popular.

Why You’ll Adore This Christmas Dump Cake

This Cranberry Spice Dump Cake isn’t just another dessert; it’s a holiday lifesaver! Here’s why this recipe deserves a prime spot in your festive baking repertoire:

• Incredibly Simple with Just 4 Ingredients: Holiday preparations can be hectic, but dessert doesn’t have to be. With only four core ingredients, this Cranberry Dump Cake is ridiculously easy to assemble. You won’t spend hours in the kitchen, giving you more time to enjoy the festivities with loved ones. It’s perfect for beginner bakers or seasoned pros looking for a quick win.
• Unforgettable Flavor and Moist Texture: Despite its simplicity, the results are anything but basic. The combination of warm spice cake and vibrant cranberry sauce creates a delightful flavor fusion that perfectly embodies the spirit of the holidays. Each bite offers a wonderfully moist cake base with bursts of sweet-tart cranberries, making it truly delicious and satisfying.
• Effortless Scoop-and-Serve Design: Forget about intricate slicing or perfect presentation. This dump cake is designed for ultimate convenience. Simply scoop it out of the baking dish and serve! Its rustic, comforting appearance is part of its charm, and it means less fuss for you when serving a crowd.
• Budget-Friendly and Feeds a Crowd with Ease: Hosting a holiday party can be expensive, but dessert doesn’t have to break the bank. This easy dump cake recipe uses readily available and affordable ingredients, allowing you to feed a large group on a budget without compromising on taste or holiday cheer. It’s the perfect solution for potlucks or large family dinners where everyone can enjoy a generous serving.
• Adaptable to Dietary Needs and Preferences: While the basic recipe is fantastic, it’s also incredibly forgiving and adaptable. Whether you want to swap out the nuts or change the cake mix flavor, this recipe can be easily customized to suit various tastes or even some dietary restrictions (see our variations section for ideas!).

Essential Ingredients for Your Christmas Dump Cake

Crafting this festive dump cake requires only a handful of staple ingredients, making your holiday baking simple and stress-free. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Spice Cake Mix: This is the foundation of our festive dump cake. A good quality spice cake mix (typically 15.25 oz) provides all the warm, aromatic flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves that are synonymous with the holidays. Feel free to use your favorite brand; they all work wonderfully. If you can’t find spice cake mix, a yellow or vanilla cake mix can be substituted, though you might consider adding a teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice for that authentic holiday aroma.
• Cranberry Sauce: We recommend using whole berry cranberry sauce (two 14 oz cans). The whole berries add a beautiful texture and a delightful burst of tartness that beautifully cuts through the sweetness of the cake. While jellied cranberry sauce can technically work, the whole berry variety provides a superior mouthfeel and a more homemade appeal. If using homemade cranberry sauce, ensure it’s thick enough to form a layer at the bottom of the pan.
• Pecans: Chopped pecans are sprinkled generously over the top, adding a crucial layer of nutty flavor and a satisfying crunch. This texture contrast is key to a truly great dump cake. If you’re not a fan of pecans, or if you have an allergy, feel free to explore other nut options or omit them entirely.
• Butter: Real butter is essential for achieving the best flavor and texture in this dump cake. Melted butter is drizzled over the dry cake mix, creating a rich, buttery crust as it bakes. This ensures the cake mix absorbs moisture evenly and transforms into a golden, delicious topping. Unsalted butter is preferred, as it allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dessert.

Using high-quality ingredients, even for a simple recipe like this, can elevate the final taste significantly. Make sure your cake mix isn’t expired and your butter is fresh for the best possible results. For the complete ingredient list with precise measurements, please refer to the recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Delicious Variations to Try

One of the best things about dump cakes is how incredibly versatile they are! This Christmas Dump Cake can be easily customized to suit your taste, explore new flavor combinations, or adapt to ingredients you have on hand. Don’t be afraid to get creative:

• Experiment with Cake Mix Flavors: While spice cake mix is perfect for a traditional holiday flavor, feel free to try a different box of cake mix.
  • Yellow Cake Mix: Offers a classic, buttery vanilla base that pairs wonderfully with cranberry.
  • White Cake Mix: Provides a lighter, more subtle canvas, allowing the cranberry flavor to truly shine.
  • Chocolate Cake Mix: For a richer, more decadent dessert, chocolate cake mix creates an unexpected but delightful pairing with the tart cranberries.
  • Gingerbread Cake Mix: If you want to lean even further into the holiday spice profile, a gingerbread mix would be absolutely divine.
• Homemade Cranberry Sauce: If you have time and prefer a homemade touch, you can absolutely use homemade cranberry sauce for this recipe. Simply layer approximately 4 cups of your freshly made sauce in the bottom of the pan before topping with the cake mix, pecans, and melted butter. This can add an extra layer of freshness and flavor complexity.
• Explore Different Nuts: Pecans are classic, but other nuts can offer their own unique texture and flavor.
  • Walnuts: Provide a slightly more bitter, earthy flavor that complements the cranberries.
  • Almonds: Offer a milder, slightly sweeter crunch. Sliced almonds would also work beautifully for a different visual appeal.
  • No Nuts: If you have nut allergies or simply prefer no nuts, you can easily omit them from the recipe. The cake will still be delicious!
• Alternate Fruit Fillings: The “dump cake” concept is incredibly flexible with fruit fillings. If cranberries aren’t your favorite, or you want to try this recipe for a different occasion, consider these delicious substitutes:
  • Cherry Pie Filling: A popular choice for a classic dump cake.
  • Strawberry Pie Filling: Offers a sweet, summery twist.
  • Apple Pie Filling: Perfect for a fall-inspired dump cake, especially when paired with a yellow or spice cake mix.
  • Blueberries or Peaches: Canned or fresh blueberries and peaches (sliced) also taste great, especially when mixed with a little sugar and cornstarch if using fresh fruit to create a thicker sauce.
  • Pumpkin Puree: For a true autumn treat, you can even use pumpkin puree mixed with pumpkin pie spice and a little sugar as the base.
• Add Shredded Coconut: For an extra layer of flavor and texture, sprinkle about half a cup of shredded coconut along with the pecans on top of the cake mix. It adds a subtle tropical note and a lovely chewiness.
• Spices in the Cake Mix: If using a plain yellow or white cake mix, you can enhance the holiday flavor by whisking 1-2 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, or a combination of ginger and nutmeg into the dry cake mix before sprinkling it over the cranberries.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Christmas Dump Cake

Preparing this festive dessert is astonishingly simple. Just follow these easy steps for a delicious treat that looks far more complicated than it is!

Step 1 – Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish: Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). While the oven is warming up, take a 9×13-inch baking pan and lightly spray it with a non-stick cooking spray. This crucial step ensures your delicious dump cake won’t stick, making serving and cleanup a breeze.

Step 2 – Layer the Cranberry Sauce: Open your cans of whole berry cranberry sauce and pour them directly into the prepared baking pan. Using the back of a spoon or a spatula, spread the cranberry sauce out evenly across the entire bottom of the pan. This will create a luscious, tangy layer for the cake to bake upon.

Step 3 – Add the Dry Cake Mix: Next, take your box of dry spice cake mix and carefully sprinkle it evenly over the cranberry sauce layer. Do not stir! The beauty of a dump cake is that the layers remain separate during baking, allowing the flavors and textures to meld perfectly. Ensure the entire cranberry layer is covered.

Step 4 – Sprinkle with Pecans: Now, evenly sprinkle the chopped pecans over the dry cake mix. These nuts will toast beautifully in the oven, adding a wonderful crunch and a rich, earthy flavor that complements the spice cake and cranberries perfectly. Distribute them well so every bite has some nutty goodness.

Step 5 – Drizzle with Melted Butter: In a microwave-safe bowl or small saucepan, melt the butter. Once fully melted, slowly and carefully drizzle it evenly over the entire surface of the cake mix and pecans. This butter is what will hydrate the dry cake mix, allowing it to bake into a moist, golden-brown crust. Try to cover as much of the dry mix as possible without stirring.

Step 6 – Bake to Perfection: Place the baking pan into your preheated oven. Bake for approximately 40-45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top of the cake achieves a beautiful golden-brown color and the cranberry sauce underneath is bubbly and fragrant. The edges should appear set, and the center slightly firm. Avoid overbaking to maintain moisture.

Step 7 – Cool and Serve: Once baked, carefully remove the dump cake from the oven. Allow it to cool for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. This brief cooling period helps the cake firm up slightly, making it easier to scoop. Serve this delicious Christmas Dump Cake warm, topped with your favorite whipped topping or a generous scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. Enjoy the festive flavors!

Irresistible Topping Ideas for Your Christmas Dump Cake

While this Christmas Dump Cake is absolutely delicious on its own, adding a topping elevates it to an even more luxurious and indulgent holiday dessert. Here are some fantastic ideas to crown your festive creation:

• Classic Vanilla Ice Cream: There’s a reason this is a timeless pairing! A generous scoop of No Churn Vanilla Ice Cream melting over the warm, spicy cranberry cake is pure bliss. The cold, creamy ice cream creates a delightful contrast with the warm, fruity dessert, making each spoonful a harmonious blend of temperatures and textures. You can also try other ice cream flavors like cinnamon, eggnog, or even a subtle caramel for an extra festive touch.
• Light and Airy Whipped Cream: A dollop of Homemade Whipped Cream Recipe adds a cloud-like lightness and a touch of elegance to each serving. The richness of the cake and the airiness of the whipped cream create a wonderfully balanced and creamy combination. You can even infuse your whipped cream with a hint of vanilla extract, almond extract, or a dash of cinnamon for an extra layer of flavor that complements the dump cake perfectly.
• A Drizzle of Caramel or White Chocolate Sauce: For an extra touch of decadence, warm up some caramel sauce or melt some white chocolate and drizzle it artfully over each serving. These sweet additions pair beautifully with the spice cake and tart cranberries, adding another dimension of flavor and visual appeal.
• Candied Pecans or Walnuts: Enhance the nutty crunch by topping your cake with homemade candied pecans or walnuts. Their caramelized sweetness adds an extra layer of texture and a touch of gourmet flair.
• Fresh Cranberries or Orange Zest: For a vibrant and fresh garnish, scatter a few fresh cranberries or finely grated orange zest over the top. This not only adds a pop of color but also a burst of fresh flavor that brightens the entire dessert, reinforcing its holiday theme.
• Dusting of Powdered Sugar: A simple yet elegant finish, a light dusting of powdered sugar adds a delicate sweetness and a beautiful, snowy appearance that is perfect for a Christmas dessert.

Expert Tips for Dump Cake Perfection

Even though dump cakes are incredibly forgiving, a few expert tips can ensure your Christmas Dump Cake turns out perfectly every time, delivering maximum flavor and ease of serving:

• Always Prepare the Pan Thoroughly: It’s an absolute must to spray your baking dish generously with non-stick cooking spray, or grease it with butter and flour. This prevents the cake and fruit filling from sticking to the bottom and sides, making it significantly easier to scoop out perfect portions and simplifying cleanup afterward. Don’t skip this step!
• Patience is Key: Allow it to Cool: While it’s tempting to dive right into this warm, aromatic dessert, allowing the cake to cool for at least 10-15 minutes after baking is crucial. During this time, the fruit filling will set and the cake will firm up, making it much easier to scoop and preventing it from being too runny. It also allows the flavors to deepen and meld beautifully.
• Resist the Urge to Stir the Mixture: The “dump” in dump cake is literal! The magic of this dessert lies in its layered construction. Do not stir the cranberry sauce, dry cake mix, or pecans once they are in the baking dish. Each layer transforms independently during baking, creating distinct textures and a visually appealing contrast that stirring would eliminate. Just layer them and let the oven do its work.
• Even Butter Distribution is Important: When drizzling the melted butter over the dry cake mix and pecans, aim for as even a distribution as possible. This ensures that the cake mix has enough moisture to bake properly and form a golden, crispy topping. If some spots are missed, you might end up with dry pockets of unbaked mix. A spoon can help guide the butter into uncovered areas.
• Monitor Baking Time: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your dump cake during the last 10-15 minutes of baking. The top should be beautifully golden brown, and the fruit filling around the edges should be visibly bubbling. If it browns too quickly, you can loosely tent it with aluminum foil for the remaining bake time.
• Choose the Right Cranberry Sauce: For the best texture, opt for whole berry cranberry sauce. The texture of the whole berries adds an appealing dimension that jellied sauce cannot replicate. If you only have jellied, it will still work, but the whole berry is highly recommended for an optimal experience.
• Enhance the Spice: If you find your spice cake mix not quite spicy enough, or if you’re using a plain cake mix, consider whisking in an extra ½ to 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or pumpkin pie spice into the dry cake mix before sprinkling it over the cranberries. This can really amplify the holiday flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s) About Christmas Dump Cake

Got questions about making, storing, or adapting this easy Christmas Dump Cake? We’ve got answers!

How should I store leftover Christmas Dump Cake?

To keep your delicious dump cake fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container. Place it in the refrigerator, where it will remain fresh and tasty for up to 5 days. You can reheat individual servings gently in the microwave or enjoy them cold, which can be surprisingly refreshing!

What exactly is a dump cake?

A dump cake is an incredibly simple, “toss and go” dessert characterized by minimal ingredients and effortless preparation. It typically involves layering a fruit filling at the bottom of a baking dish, topping it with a dry cake mix, and then drizzling melted butter over everything. The name comes from literally “dumping” the ingredients into the pan without mixing. As it bakes, the butter and fruit juices hydrate the cake mix, transforming it into a moist, cake-like texture with a golden, often slightly crispy, topping.

Can I make a crockpot (slow cooker) version of this dump cake?

Absolutely! This recipe adapts beautifully to a slow cooker. Follow the same layering instructions, but instead of a baking pan, use a greased slow cooker insert. Allow it to cook for approximately 3 to 4 hours on the LOW setting or 2 to 3 hours on the HIGH setting. Make sure to spray your crock pot with cooking spray or use a slow cooker liner for easy cleanup. A crockpot dump cake is a fantastic option if you need to free up oven space during holiday meal prep or if you plan to be away and want a warm dessert ready when you return.

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of canned cranberry sauce?

Yes, you can use fresh cranberries, but you’ll need to prepare them slightly. You can’t just “dump” them in raw. Mix about 3-4 cups of fresh cranberries with 1/2 to 1 cup of sugar (depending on your sweetness preference) and 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch or flour. The cornstarch/flour will help thicken the juices as they cook, preventing the cake from becoming too watery. Spread this mixture at the bottom of the pan as you would the canned sauce.

Can I make this dump cake ahead of time?

Yes, this Christmas Dump Cake is an excellent make-ahead dessert. You can bake it a day in advance, let it cool completely, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, you can gently reheat the entire pan in a low oven (around 300°F/150°C) for 15-20 minutes, or warm individual servings in the microwave. It’s often just as delicious, if not more so, the next day!

More Delightful Christmas Dessert Recipes

Looking for more festive inspiration for your holiday table? Here are some other cherished Christmas dessert recipes that are sure to impress and satisfy your sweet cravings:

• Christmas Jello Poke Cake Recipe: A vibrant and fun dessert with festive colors and a wonderfully moist texture.
• Mincemeat Pie: A classic, rich, and aromatic pie that’s a staple of traditional holiday feasts.
• Red Velvet Pound Cake: A stunning and decadent cake with a beautiful red hue, perfect for a special occasion.
• Green Velvet Cake: A fun and festive twist on the classic velvet cake, bringing a touch of holiday green to your dessert spread.
• Christmas Cranberry Cake Recipe: Another wonderful way to incorporate the tart sweetness of cranberries into a delightful holiday cake.

More Easy Dump Cake Recipes to Explore

If you’ve fallen in love with the simplicity and deliciousness of dump cakes, you’re in for a treat! There are so many variations to explore. Here are a few more easy dump cake recipes that are just as simple and satisfying:

• Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe: A perfect autumn dessert that captures the flavors of pumpkin pie with minimal effort.
• Peach Dump Cake Recipe – 4 ingredients: A sweet and juicy classic, ideal for a quick summer treat.
• Caramel Apple Dump Cake Recipe: A delightful combination of crisp apples and rich caramel, perfect for fall gatherings.

We truly hope you’ll try this delicious Christmas Dump Cake recipe! It’s an easy win for any holiday celebration, offering maximum flavor with minimum effort. Please leave a comment and let us know what you think once you do!

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Christmas Dump Cake Recipe

Overall Rating: 4.89 from 27 votes

Christmas Dump Cake is an easy dessert with spice cake and cranberry sauce. It’s topped with pecans for a great recipe full of holiday cheer.

Prep Time: 10 mins

Cook Time: 40 mins

Total Time: 50 mins

Servings: 12

Cuisine: American

Course: Dessert

Calories: 458 kcal

Author: Carrie Barnard

Ingredients

• 1 box Spice Cake Mix (15.25 oz)
• 2 cans Cranberry Sauce (14 oz cans, whole berry sauce)
• 1 cup Chopped Pecans
• ¾ cup Butter (melted)

Find ingredients at your local store.

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175°C) and spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with a non-stick cooking spray.
2. Spread out the cranberry sauce evenly on the bottom of the prepared pan.
3. Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly on top of the cranberry sauce, then sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly over the cake mix. Do not stir.
4. Slowly pour the melted butter evenly on top of the cake mix and pecans, covering as much of the dry mix as possible.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top of the cake is golden brown and the fruit filling is bubbly.
6. Let the cake cool slightly for 10-15 minutes before serving. Serve warm, topped with whipped topping or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Enjoy!

Recipe Notes

Refrigerate any leftover dump cake in an airtight container for up to 5 days. For best flavor, allow it to come to room temperature or gently reheat before serving.

If you cannot find a spice cake mix in your area, a yellow cake mix can be used as a substitute. Consider adding ½ to 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice to the dry mix for a similar festive flavor.

You can use homemade cranberry sauce for this recipe if you prefer. Layer approximately 4 cups of your homemade sauce in the bottom of the pan before topping with the cake mix, pecans, and butter.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 458 kcal, Carbohydrates: 60g, Protein: 3g, Fat: 24g, Saturated Fat: 9g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g, Monounsaturated Fat: 10g, Trans Fat: 0.5g, Cholesterol: 31mg, Sodium: 378mg, Potassium: 206mg, Fiber: 2g, Sugar: 41g, Vitamin A: 389IU, Vitamin C: 1mg, Calcium: 52mg, Iron: 3mg

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