Aunt Kaye’s Rhubarb Dump Cake Recipe: A Sweet and Tart Delight with Nutritional Benefits
Aunt Kaye’s Rhubarb Dump Cake features a harmonious blend of sweet and tart flavors, making it a memorable treat. With rhubarb as the star ingredient, the cake combines fresh or frozen rhubarb with a standard yellow cake mix and simple pantry ingredients.
Key Ingredients
The major components include:
- Rhubarb: Fresh or frozen rhubarb imparts a unique tartness.
- Sugar: Balances the rhubarb’s acidity.
- Yellow Cake Mix: Provides the base for the cake.
- Butter: Adds richness and moisture.
- Water: Helps create a seamless mix.
Preparation Steps
- Prepare Rhubarb: Spread 5 cups of chopped rhubarb in a baking dish.
- Add Sugar: Sprinkle 1 cup of sugar evenly over the rhubarb.
- Cake Mix Layer: Distribute the dry yellow cake mix (15.25 oz) over the sugar and rhubarb.
- Butter and Water: Pour 1 cup of water over the mixture. Melt 1 cup of butter and drizzle it on top.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F and bake for 45-55 minutes until golden.
Serving Suggestions
Consider serving the dump cake warm with ice cream or whipped cream. It’s versatile for various events, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container. Keep it refrigerated if planning to consume over several days. Reheat in the oven to regain its freshly baked texture.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a simplified breakdown of the nutritional values per serving based on 12 servings:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 230 |
| Fat | 10g |
| Carbohydrates | 34g |
| Protein | 2g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 20g |
Aunt Kaye’s Rhubarb Dump Cake stands out for its ease of preparation and delightful flavor, ensuring it remains a popular choice for dessert enthusiasts.
Key Ingredients and Preparation Methods
Major Ingredients
Aunt Kaye’s Rhubarb Dump Cake relies on a few simple ingredients to create an unforgettable dessert. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Rhubarb: Fresh or frozen, chopped into small pieces. Aim for about 4 cups.
- Sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the tartness of the rhubarb. Use 1 cup.
- Yellow Cake Mix: Provides the base and textures of the cake. One standard box (about 15.25 oz).
- Butter: Adds rich flavor and moisture. Melt 1 cup (2 sticks) of unsalted butter.
- Water: Helps blend the ingredients. Use about 1 cup.
These ingredients combine to produce a dessert that’s both sweet and tangy. Be sure to use fresh rhubarb when possible for the best flavor, although frozen rhubarb works well if fresh is unavailable.
Step-by-Step Baking Process
Creating Aunt Kaye’s Rhubarb Dump Cake is straightforward, making it accessible even for novice bakers. Follow these steps:
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready when you finish assembling the cake.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking, ensuring easy removal and cleanup.
- Layer Rhubarb: Spread the chopped rhubarb evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle Sugar: Evenly distribute the sugar over the rhubarb to ensure every bite has a balanced sweetness.
- Add Cake Mix: Sprinkle the yellow cake mix evenly over the sugar and rhubarb, covering all corners.
- Add Water: Pour water evenly over the cake mix, helping to dissolve it and blend the layers.
- Drizzle Butter: Drizzle the melted butter over the entire dish, ensuring it covers as much of the surface as possible.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
By following these steps, you’ll achieve a perfectly baked Aunt Kaye’s Rhubarb Dump Cake. Enjoy it warm, paired with ice cream or whipped cream, for an enhanced dessert experience. Refrigerate any leftovers to maintain freshness, ensuring you can savor this delightful treat later.
Flavor Profile and Texture
The Sweet and Sour Balance of Rhubarb
Aunt Kaye’s Rhubarb Dump Cake delivers a unique sweet and sour balance. Rhubarb provides a natural tartness, complementing the cake mix’s sweetness. Sugar in the recipe tempers the rhubarb’s acidity, creating a harmonious flavor. When baked, the rhubarb softens, enhancing its tangy profile while blending seamlessly with the sugary cake base. This interaction results in a delightful contrast that refreshes the palate with every bite.
Texture That Defines Dump Cakes
Dump cakes feature a distinctive texture that sets them apart. Aunt Kaye’s version boasts a mix of spongy cake and tender fruit. The cake layer atop the rhubarb turns golden and slightly crispy, providing a light crunch. Underneath, the rhubarb infuses the cake with moisture, yielding a soft, pudding-like consistency. This layered texture delivers a rich and satisfying mouthfeel, making each serving delectable. Enjoyed warm, the cake’s buttery crust and juicy filling create a comforting dessert experience.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Ideal Accompaniments
Serve Aunt Kaye’s Rhubarb Dump Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. These additions balance the tartness of the rhubarb, enhancing the overall flavor. You can also pair it with a light drizzle of caramel or butterscotch sauce. For a touch of freshness, add a handful of fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries as a garnish. If you prefer a tangy contrast, a spoonful of Greek yogurt works well.
Presentation Ideas for Special Occasions
For special occasions, elevate Aunt Kaye’s Rhubarb Dump Cake with creative presentation. Bake the cake in individual ramekins for a personalized touch. Dust the top with powdered sugar for a classic look or use a stencil to create intricate designs. Garnish each serving with a mint sprig and a fresh fruit slice for a vibrant, appealing appearance. Serve the cake on a decorative platter or cake stand to make it the centerpiece of your dessert table. Use colorful plates and cutlery to add a festive vibe if hosting a themed party.
Nutritional Information
Health Benefits of Rhubarb
Rhubarb offers various health benefits due to its rich nutrient content. Each 100 grams of rhubarb provides:
- Vitamin K: 26% of the daily value, supporting bone health and blood clotting.
- Antioxidants: Anthocyanins and proanthocyanidins, protecting against oxidative stress.
- Fiber: 1.8 grams, aiding digestion and promoting regular bowel movements.
- Calcium: 86 mg, important for maintaining bone and dental health.
Incorporating rhubarb into desserts like Aunt Kaye’s Rhubarb Dump Cake not only enhances flavor but also adds nutritional value.
Caloric Content of the Cake
To understand the caloric content of Aunt Kaye’s Rhubarb Dump Cake, consider the main ingredients:
- Rhubarb: 26 calories per 100 grams
- Sugar: 387 calories per 100 grams
- Yellow cake mix: Approximately 350 calories per 100 grams
- Butter: 717 calories per 100 grams
Assuming typical quantities used in the recipe, a single serving of the cake may contain around 300-400 calories. This dessert can be enjoyed occasionally in moderation while being mindful of your overall daily caloric intake.
Conclusion
Aunt Kaye’s Rhubarb Dump Cake is more than just a tasty dessert; it’s a blend of tart and sweet that brings joy to any table. With its simple ingredients and straightforward baking process, you’ll find it easy to prepare. Plus, the nutritional benefits of rhubarb add a healthy twist to this delightful treat. Whether you serve it with whipped cream or fresh berries, this cake is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy it as an occasional indulgence and savor every bite.
