Are you craving a warm, sweet treat but short on time? Let me introduce you to my Peach Cobbler Dump Cake—a quick and simple recipe that brings joy to your table. With just a few fresh or frozen peaches, cake mix, and butter, you can whip up a delicious dessert in no time. Join me as I share my step-by-step guide and tips to make this easy dessert a crowd favorite!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Simple to Make: This recipe requires minimal effort and ingredients, making it perfect for any baker, regardless of skill level.
- Deliciously Fruity: The combination of peaches and warm spices creates a delightful flavor that’s perfect for summer gatherings or cozy nights in.
- Versatile Serving Options: Whether you enjoy it warm with ice cream or cool with whipped cream, this cake satisfies any dessert craving.
- Great for Gatherings: This cake serves 8-10 people, making it an ideal choice for potlucks, family dinners, or celebrations.
Ingredients
Fresh or frozen peaches
You can use 4 cups of fresh or frozen peaches. If you use fresh peaches, slice them thin. Frozen peaches are also great, just thaw them first. Both options work well and give you that juicy, sweet flavor.
Cake mix and sugar
Grab a box of yellow cake mix. This is the base for our dump cake. You also need 1 cup of granulated sugar. The sugar helps sweeten the peaches and adds extra flavor to the cake.
Butter and additional flavorings
You will need 1 cup of unsalted butter. Melt it down to pour over the cake mix. This gives the cake a rich taste. For added flavor, use 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and ½ teaspoon of nutmeg if you want. These ingredients make the cake even more special.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the peaches
Start by washing and slicing your peaches. You can use fresh or frozen peaches. If using fresh, peel and slice them into thin pieces. If frozen, let them thaw slightly before using. In a big bowl, mix the peaches with one cup of granulated sugar, one teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and nutmeg if you like. Let this sit for a few minutes. This helps the juices come out.
Assembling the cake layers
Take a 9x13-inch baking dish. Pour the peach mixture evenly at the bottom. Now, grab the box of yellow cake mix and sprinkle it over the peaches. Make sure to cover all the fruit but don’t stir. Next, drizzle one cup of melted butter over the cake mix. This will add richness and flavor. Lastly, pour one cup of water over everything. Do not stir again. This will help form a soft cake layer on top.
Baking the dump cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. Look for a golden brown top and bubbling peaches around the edges. When it’s ready, take it out and let it cool for a few minutes. This makes it easier to serve. Enjoy your tasty peach cobbler dump cake!
Tips & Tricks
How to choose the best peaches
To pick the best peaches, look for ripe ones. They should be firm but slightly soft. The color should be even and bright. A sweet smell means they are fresh. If you see any bruises or dark spots, avoid those. Fresh or frozen peaches both work well in this dump cake.
Ensuring even baking
To bake evenly, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Use a 9x13 inch baking dish for even heat. Layer the peaches on the bottom without packing them too tight. Spread the dry cake mix evenly on top of the peaches. Drizzle the melted butter all over to help it bake well. Pour the water gently on top; do not stir. This step keeps the cake moist and fluffy.
Serving suggestions for peach cobbler dump cake
Serve this dump cake warm for the best taste. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top. A sprinkle of cinnamon can add a nice touch. For extra fun, garnish with a slice of fresh peach. Enjoy it with friends or family for a perfect dessert!
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Peaches: For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh, ripe peaches in season. If using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture.
- Mix Your Spices: Enhance the flavor by adding a hint of ginger or cardamom along with cinnamon and nutmeg. This will give your cake a unique twist!
- Don’t Stir: After pouring the water over the cake mix, resist the urge to stir. This layering technique is key to achieving that perfect dump cake texture.
- Let It Rest: Allow the dump cake to cool for a few minutes after baking. This will help the layers set and make it easier to serve.
Variations
Using different fruits
You can change up the fruit in your dump cake. Instead of peaches, try berries, cherries, or apples. Each fruit will give a new flavor. For berries, use about 4 cups of mixed berries. If you pick apples, slice them thinly for even cooking. You can also mix fruits. A berry-peach combo adds a fun twist!
Gluten-free options
If you need a gluten-free version, swap the yellow cake mix for a gluten-free mix. Many brands offer good options. Check the label to ensure it fits your needs. You can also use almond flour or coconut flour. These flours work well when mixed with enough moisture. Just remember to adjust the liquid in the recipe.
Alternative toppings
Toppings can change your dump cake game. Instead of vanilla ice cream, try whipped cream or yogurt. A scoop of caramel sauce or chocolate sauce adds a rich flavor. You can also sprinkle some nuts on top for crunch. Experiment with different toppings to find your favorite!
Storage Info
How to store leftovers
To keep your peach cobbler dump cake fresh, let it cool first. Cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil. You can also transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to three days.
Reheating instructions
When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cobbler in an oven-safe dish. Heat for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until it's warm. You can also use a microwave. Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until warm.
Freezing peach cobbler dump cake
If you want to save some for later, freezing works great. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place it in a freezer bag or container. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use canned peaches?
Yes, you can use canned peaches. Just drain them well before use. Canned peaches are sweet and soft, making them a good choice. If you use them, cut back on the sugar a bit. This helps keep it from being too sweet.
How to make a homemade cake mix?
To make a homemade cake mix, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Use these ratios:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
Mix these well, and you have a quick cake mix. Use this mix in your dump cake for a fresh taste.
What can I substitute for butter?
You can use vegetable oil or coconut oil instead of butter. Both options add moisture. Use a 1:1 ratio for either oil. This change keeps the cake moist and soft, just like butter would.
This blog post covered how to make a delicious peach cobbler dump cake. We looked at ingredients like fresh peaches and cake mix. I gave you step-by-step instructions for preparing and baking. We discussed tips for picking the best fruit and suggested tasty variations. You learned about storage and reheating options. In conclusion, this dessert is simple and fun. It’s a perfect way to enjoy peaches and impress your guests. Try it and share your thoughts!
