Rhubarb And Strawberry Dump Cake Recipe: Easy, Gluten-Free & Vegan Options

Rhubarb’s culinary history dates back over 2,000 years. Originally used for medicinal purposes in ancient China and Tibet, rhubarb eventually found its way into European kitchens by the 18th century. Rhubarb pies and tarts became popular staple desserts in England (source: National Geographic, 2020).

Strawberries, native to both the Americas and Europe, have been cultivated since the Roman era. The modern strawberry, a hybrid of two wild species, became popular in France during the 18th century. Combining strawberries with rhubarb in desserts likely began in 19th-century Europe, capitalizing on the contrasting flavors (source: Smithsonian Magazine, 2019).

Popularity and Trends

Rhubarb and strawberry dump cake gained popularity in the mid-20th century in North America. This dessert, known for its simplicity and convenience, taps into the trend of combining fruity ingredients with cake mix. Dump cakes, requiring minimal preparation, emerged as a staple for home cooks during the 1950s and 1960s (source: Food Network, 2021).

In recent years, there’s been a resurgence in traditional dessert recipes, and rhubarb and strawberry dump cake has benefited from this trend. Modern bakers appreciate the nostalgia and accessibility of the recipe. According to Google Trends, searches for “rhubarb strawberry dump cake” have significantly increased since 2015, indicating a renewed interest in this classic dessert.

Key Ingredients and Substitutions

Importance of Rhubarb and Strawberries

Rhubarb and strawberries form the crux of this dump cake’s flavor profile. Rhubarb’s tartness contrasts perfectly with strawberries’ sweetness, creating a balanced taste. Rhubarb adds a unique texture, making every bite more interesting. Opt for fresh rhubarb stalks, ensuring they’re firm and red, as these offer the best flavor.

Strawberries bring a juicy sweetness, enriching the cake’s overall taste. Fresh strawberries, preferably ripe and firm, enhance the flavor and texture. If fresh strawberries are unavailable, frozen ones can serve as a substitute but ensure they are thawed and drained.

Alternative Ingredients

Alternative ingredients can offer flexibility without compromising taste. Use frozen strawberries if fresh ones are out of season; just thaw and drain them beforehand. Consider substituting rhubarb with green apples if you’re not a fan of its tartness; this will maintain a similar texture but alter the flavor profile.

For those needing a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free cake mix available in most grocery stores. To reduce sugar, opt for a sugar-free cake mix and use natural sweeteners like stevia or erythritol in place of sugar.

Step-by-Step Baking Process

Preparing the Fruits

Start by washing and drying your fresh rhubarb and strawberries. Cut the rhubarb into 1/2-inch pieces, discarding any leaves as they’re toxic. Hull and slice the strawberries into halves or quarters for even mixing. Ensure all fruit pieces are roughly the same size to promote uniform cooking. If using frozen strawberries, thaw them before mixing.

Mixing and Baking

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Spread the prepared rhubarb and strawberries evenly in the dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1 package of strawberry gelatin mix over the fruits for added sweetness and flavor.

Evenly pour a box of yellow cake mix over the fruit mixture, ensuring it’s spread uniformly. Dot the top with slices of 1/2 cup of butter or margarine. Arrange the slices to cover most of the surface. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the fruit is bubbly. Let the cake cool for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set properly.

Serving and Storage Tips

Best Practices for Serving

Serving rhubarb and strawberry dump cake involves a few simple steps to enhance the dessert experience. Once the cake has cooled and set, cut it into even portions. Serve each piece with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy additions create a delightful contrast to the cake’s tart and sweet flavors. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for an added touch of freshness.

How to Store Leftovers

Storing leftovers properly ensures the cake retains its flavor and texture. Transfer any remaining cake to an airtight container. Refrigerate the cake to keep it fresh for up to four days. If you’d like to store it for a longer period, freeze it in individual servings. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw the cake in the refrigerator before reheating. To reheat, use a microwave for about 30-60 seconds or an oven set to 350°F for 10-15 minutes, until warmed through.

Variations of Rhubarb and Strawberry Dump Cake

Gluten-Free and Vegan Alternatives

Transform the traditional rhubarb and strawberry dump cake with gluten-free and vegan options. Use a gluten-free cake mix, ensuring it contains rice flour, potato starch, and tapioca flour. Substitute dairy butter with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or vegan margarine. Replace eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water. For further customization, use maple syrup or agave nectar as a sweetener.

Creative Twists and Flavor Combinations

Experiment with creative twists and flavor combinations to elevate your dump cake. Add blueberries or raspberries for a mixed berry variation. Incorporate lemon zest and juice to brighten the taste profile. Enhance texture and crunch by sprinkling chopped nuts like almonds or pecans before baking. Substitute the cake mix with a spiced alternative like cinnamon or nutmeg-infused mix for added warmth.

Conclusion

Creating a rhubarb and strawberry dump cake is a delightful way to enjoy the contrasting flavors of tart rhubarb and sweet strawberries. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with gluten-free and vegan alternatives, this dessert offers a versatile and delicious treat for any occasion. Serve it warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to elevate the experience. Don’t hesitate to get creative with additional ingredients like blueberries, lemon zest, or nuts to make it uniquely yours. Happy baking!