Description
A rustic-yet-elegant dessert featuring layers of seasonal fresh fruit, aromatic spices, and a golden buttery topping. This isn’t your average dump cake—it’s elevated with fresh ingredients, natural flavors, and a touch of sophistication. Perfect for dinner parties or weekend indulgence.
Ingredients
🛒 Ingredients:
4 cups fresh fruit (peaches, plums, mixed berries, or a combo)
2 tablespoons honey or raw sugar (adjust to fruit sweetness)
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 box French vanilla or butter cake mix (15 oz)
½ cup unsalted butter, melted (or browned butter for depth)
1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for stone fruits)
2 tablespoons sliced fresh mint or basil (for garnish)
Instructions
📝 Instructions:
Prep Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Fruit Base: In the dish, toss fresh fruit with honey, lemon zest, juice, vanilla, and cinnamon if using. Spread evenly.
Cake Layer: Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the fruit—do not stir.
Butter Finish: Drizzle melted butter (or browned butter) evenly over the cake mix.
Bake: Bake uncovered 40–45 minutes, until the top is golden and the fruit filling is bubbling.
Garnish & Serve: Cool slightly, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve warm with vanilla bean ice cream, mascarpone, or lightly sweetened whipped cream.
Notes
- For an extra gourmet touch, fold in ¼ cup chopped candied ginger or crystallized orange peel with the fruit.
- Try pairing fresh peaches + raspberries or blueberries + lemon zest for stunning flavor combos.
- Use brown butter instead of regular butter for a nutty, caramelized flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40–45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American