Easy Rhubarb Dump Cake Recipe – Just 6 Ingredients

I remember the first time I made this with a pile of fresh rhubarb from my neighbor’s garden. My rhubarb dump cake recipe was a huge hit.

Since then, it’s become my go-to dish when I want something simple, nostalgic, and crowd-pleasing.

If you’re looking for a no-fuss dessert that screams spring and summer, this Rhubarb Dump Cake is exactly what you need!

It’s tart, sweet, buttery, and ridiculously easy to make. With just 6 simple ingredients and no mixing required, this is the kind of recipe you’ll want to keep in your back pocket all season long.

Whether you’ve got fresh rhubarb from the garden or frozen stalks from the store, this dump cake comes together in minutes and bakes into a golden, bubbling treat that’s perfect with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

And the best part? You don’t need a mixer, fancy tools, or baking degrees to make it happen.

What Is a Dump Cake?

A dump cake is one of the easiest desserts you can make. You literally dump all the ingredients into a baking dish—no bowls, no mixers, no stress.

Think of it as a cross between a cobbler and a crisp, with a soft, fruity base and a golden cake topping.

Why You’ll Love This Rhubarb Dump Cake Recipe?

• Only 6 ingredients
• No mixing or special tools are needed
• Perfect for potlucks, BBQs, or weeknight desserts
• Can be made with fresh or frozen rhubarb
• Sweet and tangy flavor combo everyone loves

How to Make Rhubarb Dump Cake?

Recipe Overview

This easy rhubarb dump cake recipe combines tart rhubarb, sweet strawberry gelatin, a buttery yellow cake topping, and zero hassle. Just layer, bake, and dig in.

•  Prep Time: 10 minutes

•  Cook Time: 45-50 minutes

•  Total Time: 1 hour

•  Cuisine: American

•  Course: Dessert

•  Difficulty: Easy

•  Yield: 8 servings

•  Calories: Approx. 320 per serving

Equipment You’ll Need

Nothing fancy—just your basic kitchen gear:

•  9×13-inch baking dish

•  Mixing bowl (for melting butter)

•  Measuring cups

•  Knife and cutting board

•  Spoon or spatula

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to make this rhubarb dump cake dessert:

• 4 cups chopped rhubarb
• 1 cup white sugar
• 1 (3 ounce) package strawberry-flavored gelatin mix
• 1 ½ cups water
• 1 (15.25 ounce) package yellow cake mix
• ½ cup butter or margarine, melted

Instruction

1. Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Layer the Rhubarb

Spread the chopped rhubarb evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

3. Add Sugar and Gelatin

Sprinkle the sugar over the rhubarb, then sprinkle the gelatin powder evenly on top.

4. Pour the Water

Drizzle the water over the rhubarb and sugar layers—don’t mix.

5. Add the Cake Mix

Sprinkle the entire dry yellow cake mix over the top. Again, don’t stir!

6. Top with Butter

Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the cake mix. Try to cover as much of the surface as you can.

7. Bake

Pop it into the oven and bake for 45–50 minutes until the top is golden and the edges are bubbly.

8. Cool Slightly Before Serving

Let it sit for 10–15 minutes before serving. It’ll firm up a bit as it cools.

Tips for Success

➤Don’t mix it! The beauty of a dump cake is in the layers.

➤If using frozen rhubarb, thaw and drain it first to avoid excess liquid.

➤Add chopped nuts or oats to the top for extra crunch.

➤Try white or strawberry cake mix if you want to switch things up.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

•  Calories: 320

•  Fat: 11g

•  Saturated Fat: 6g

•  Carbs: 55g

•  Sugar: 34g

•  Protein: 2g

•  Fiber: 1g

Serving Suggestions

I love this rhubarb strawberry dump cake warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, but it’s just as good chilled the next day with whipped cream.

Want to dress it up for guests? Serve in bowls with a drizzle of cream and fresh mint.

FAQ

Conclusion

This Rhubarb Dump Cake is pure comfort in a dish. It’s the kind of easy dessert that feels like a warm hug, especially when topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Perfect for spring picnics, summer potlucks, or anytime you’re craving something sweet and simple.

I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Leave a comment, share a pic, or ask me anything below.