Are you craving a warm, comforting dessert that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this incredible Dutch oven dump cake! This recipe requires minimal effort and yields a delicious, gooey, and utterly satisfying treat perfect for any occasion. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a complete beginner, this simple recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. It's the ultimate example of delicious dishes born from simple homemade cooking! Get ready to impress your friends and family with this incredibly easy yet impressive dessert.
Ingredients:
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) yellow cake mix
- 1 (21 ounce) can crushed pineapple, undrained
- 1 cup butter, melted
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 6-quart or larger Dutch oven. This step is crucial for easy removal of your cake.
Layer 1: The Pineapple: Pour the entire can of undrained crushed pineapple into the prepared Dutch oven. The juice adds moisture and flavor to the cake.
Layer 2: The Spice Blend: In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Sprinkle this spice mixture evenly over the pineapple.
Layer 3: The Nutty Delight (Optional): If using, sprinkle the chopped pecans or walnuts over the spice mixture. This adds a delightful crunch.
Layer 4: The Cake Magic: Evenly sprinkle the entire box of dry yellow cake mix over the pineapple and spice layer. Don't worry about making it perfect; a rustic look adds charm!
Layer 5: The Melted Butter: Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the entire cake mix. Make sure to distribute it as evenly as possible to ensure a moist and evenly cooked cake.
Bake it: Place the Dutch oven into the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The edges will be golden brown, and the center will be set.
Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool in the Dutch oven for at least 15-20 minutes before serving. This allows the cake to set and makes it easier to serve. You can then carefully transfer the cake to a serving dish if desired.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overbake: Overbaking will result in a dry cake. Start checking for doneness at 45 minutes.
- Dutch oven size matters: Using a smaller Dutch oven may require slightly less baking time. Adjust accordingly.
- Variations: Get creative! Try different cake mixes, add chocolate chips, or use different nuts. Experiment with different spices like ginger or allspice.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate, varies with additions):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: Approximately 18-22g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 45-50g
- Protein: Approximately 4-5g
These values are estimates and can vary depending on the specific ingredients used and serving size.
This Dutch oven dump cake is a perfect example of quick dinner ideas that also include a delicious dessert. It's a wonderfully easy and delicious recipe that's sure to become a family favorite. The minimal cleanup is a bonus! Enjoy!