Gooey Rhubarb Dump Cake – Cleaned Up & Naturally Sweetened

Dump cake is one of those nostalgic desserts that instantly brings me back to childhood potlucks, but I always felt like the store-bought cake mix and canned fillings made it way too sweet and heavy.

That’s why I created this Cleaned-Up Rhubarb Dump Cake using almond flour “cake mix,” no refined sugar, and fresh spring rhubarb.

It’s still gooey, golden, and deliciously tart-sweet… but with better-for-you ingredients that you’ll feel good serving your family.

The combination of tart rhubarb with the sweetness of coconut sugar creates a delightful balance, making every bite a treat.

Plus, you only need to dump the ingredients in a pan and let the oven do its magic!

This recipe showcases the wonderful tartness of rhubarb enhanced with a hint of lemon juice, along with the warm notes of vanilla extract.

The use of cornstarch thickens the rhubarb as it bakes, creating a luscious filling that blends beautifully with the cake topping.

It’s a dessert that feels indulgent without requiring hours of prep time!

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Here’s Why You’ll Love My Rhubarb Dump Cake

This cleaned-up version keeps all the best parts of a dump cake—simple steps, gooey fruit, and a crisp, golden topping—while ditching the boxed mix and white sugar.

The almond flour or oat flour base gives it a lightly nutty, moist texture, and the coconut sugar adds a rich caramel-like sweetness.

Plus, it’s gluten-free, naturally sweetened, and comes together in under 10 minutes. Easy, cozy, and perfect for spring!

The Perfect Rhubarb Dessert

This gooey rhubarb dump cake stands out as a delightful contrast of textures, showcasing a soft and moist cake layer perfectly balancing a gooey, fruity filling.

The vibrant pink rhubarb dances in harmony with the sweetness of coconut sugar, crafting an irresistible flavor profile that captivates your taste buds.

Each slice offers a unique experience, exploding with the tartness of rhubarb complemented by warm notes of vanilla extract and a hint of lemon juice.

As the cake bakes, the rhubarb transforms into a luscious filling, thickened by cornstarch, which melds beautifully with the cake topping.

The result is a dessert that feels indulgent yet requires minimal effort, making it a go-to option for both novice and experienced bakers alike.

Preparation and Baking Tips

Preparing this cake is straightforward, requiring only a handful of ingredients. Start by gathering fresh or frozen rhubarb, coconut sugar, and a few kitchen staples.

The process begins with combining the rhubarb with coconut sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and lemon juice in a bowl.

Mixing these ingredients ensures that the rhubarb is well-coated, enhancing its flavor and texture.

Once your rhubarb mixture is ready, it’s simply a matter of pouring it into a greased baking dish, sprinkling dry yellow cake mix on top, drizzling melted butter, and adding water.

This layering technique allows the cake to soak in the flavors and moisture, resulting in a perfectly baked dessert.

Presents Well in Any Setting

The visual appeal of this dump cake is undeniable. With a golden-brown top and vibrant filling peeking through, it makes a stunning addition to any dessert table.

Dusting it lightly with powdered sugar elevates its presentation, while a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melting beside it invites indulgence.

Served on a rustic plate, this dessert embodies a cozy kitchen atmosphere, making it perfect for gatherings or a simple family dinner.

Its inviting appearance, paired with the comforting scent of baked rhubarb and vanilla, creates a warm ambiance that draws everyone in.

Serving Suggestions

This gooey rhubarb dump cake can be enjoyed warm, allowing the flavors to shine while the filling remains soft and gooey.

This dessert is incredible warm from the oven with a scoop of vanilla Greek yogurt, coconut whipped cream, or a splash of oat milk poured over the top.

For an indulgent but still wholesome treat, pair it with a drizzle of almond butter or a dollop of plain yogurt sweetened with a bit of maple syrup.

It’s also fantastic the next morning as a brunch dessert or warmed up and eaten straight from the pan!

It’s an ideal dessert for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual weeknight treat.

For those who prefer a little twist, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel sauce as a topping.

Both options enhance the cake’s flavors and provide an additional layer of enjoyment.

Storage and Reheating

If you happen to have leftovers, storing the dump cake is easy. Cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days.

When you’re ready to enjoy another slice, simply reheat it in the oven or microwave until warm.

This cake’s versatility and delightful flavor make it a favorite, ensuring that your family will always look forward to dessert.

Whether freshly baked or enjoyed later, the gooey rhubarb filling and fluffy cake will be sure to impress.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of this delicious dessert provides a balanced treat. With approximately 250 calories per piece, it offers a satisfying indulgence without straying too far from a wholesome diet.

The combination of rhubarb, coconut sugar, and other ingredients offers not only a delightful taste but also a variety of nutrients in every slice.

Perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own, this rhubarb dump cake is a simple yet impressive dessert that can be made with ease, bringing joy to all who taste it.