The Lumberjack Cake, also known as the Lazy Cobbler, is a warm, comforting dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Imagine juicy fruit topped with a buttery, cake-like topping – it’s pure comfort food! This dessert is incredibly easy to make, even for beginner bakers.
This recipe will guide you through each step to create your own delicious Lumberjack Cake. So, put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and let’s bake!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this recipe, you have the flexibility to use fresh, frozen, or canned fruit. Feel free to choose your favorite!
For the Fruit Filling:
- 4 cups sliced fruit (peaches, berries, apples, or a combination)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to your liking and the sweetness of the fruit)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for tartness)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (or a spice blend like apple pie spice)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, helps thicken the filling)
For the Cake Topping:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Tools You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- 2 mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Spatula
Let’s Get Baking!
1. Prepare the Fruit Filling
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, gently toss together the sliced fruit, sugar, lemon juice (if using), and cinnamon. If you prefer a thicker filling, stir in the cornstarch.
2. Make the Cake Batter
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
3. Assemble the Lumberjack Cake
- Pour the fruit filling into the greased baking dish.
- Drop spoonfuls of the cake batter evenly over the fruit. Don’t worry if it doesn’t completely cover the fruit; it will bake together beautifully.
4. Bake to Perfection
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit filling is bubbly.
- Let the cake cool slightly before serving.
Lumberjack Cake
Tips and Tricks for the Best Lumberjack Cake
- Fruit Options: Feel free to get creative with the fruit filling! Peaches, berries, apples, and cherries are all classic choices. You can even use a combination of fruits for a more complex flavor.
- Sweetness Adjustment: The amount of sugar needed for the fruit filling can vary depending on the sweetness of the fruit you choose. Start with 1/2 cup and adjust to your preference.
- Spice it Up: Experiment with different spices to customize the flavor profile. Apple pie spice, nutmeg, or a pinch of cardamom would be delicious additions.
- Serving Suggestions: Lumberjack Cake is delicious on its own, but a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream takes it to the next level!
FAQs About Making Lumberjack Cake
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the cake and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few minutes to the baking time if you bake it straight from the refrigerator.
Can I use a different size baking dish?
You can use a slightly smaller or larger baking dish, but keep in mind that the baking time will need to be adjusted accordingly. A smaller dish will require a longer baking time, while a larger dish will bake faster.
Fruit Filling for Lumberjack Cake
Conclusion
The Lumberjack Cake is a testament to the fact that delicious desserts don’t have to be complicated. This recipe is easy to follow, adaptable to your preferences, and sure to impress your family and friends. Give it a try and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of this rustic treat. Don’t forget to share your baking experience in the comments below!
