Strawberry Dump Cake Recipe: A Simple, Irresistible Dessert
If you’re searching for an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor, then this Strawberry Dump Cake Recipe is just what you need. Made with simple pantry staples, this dessert brings out the best of sweet, juicy strawberries and a golden, buttery cake topping. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, need a last-minute dessert, or just want to satisfy your sweet tooth, this dump cake is the perfect choice.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to make Strawberry Dump Cake step by step, along with expert tips, variations, and serving suggestions to take your dessert to the next level.
Not interested in a lot of theory? Feel free to jump directly to the recipe card.
What is a Dump Cake?
A dump cake is one of the easiest desserts you can make. Unlike traditional cakes that require mixing, creaming, or multiple bowls, a dump cake is exactly what it sounds like—you simply “dump” the ingredients into a baking dish, layer by layer, and let the oven do the work. The result is a bubbly, fruit-filled dessert with a crisp, buttery topping that tastes like a cross between a cobbler and a cake.
The beauty of this Strawberry Dump Cake Recipe lies in its simplicity. With only a handful of ingredients, you can create a warm, comforting dessert that pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Minimal effort – No mixing required, making it a great choice for beginner bakers or busy days.
- Simple ingredients – Uses fresh strawberries, canned pie filling, cake mix, and butter.
- Versatile – Can be customized with different cake mix flavors, fruit add-ins, and toppings.
- Crowd-pleasing – Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, and holiday celebrations.
- Make-ahead friendly – Tastes even better the next day when the flavors meld together.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Strawberry Dump Cake, you’ll need:
- Fresh strawberries – Adds natural sweetness and texture.
- Strawberry pie filling – Provides a rich, fruity base that keeps the cake moist.
- Cake mix – Choose from yellow, white, or lemon cake mix for different flavor profiles.
- Butter – Sliced thinly and spread over the cake mix to create a crispy, golden crust.
Optional Additions:
- Chopped nuts (almonds or pecans) for extra crunch.
- Shredded coconut for added sweetness.
- White chocolate chips for a creamy contrast to the fruit.
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Strawberry Dump Cake
- Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly butter a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. - Layer the Ingredients
- Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly in the bottom of the baking dish.
- Add half of the fresh chopped strawberries on top of the pie filling.
- Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the fruit. Do not stir.
- Slice the butter into thin pats and distribute them across the entire surface.
- Top with the remaining fresh strawberries for bursts of fresh flavor.
- Bake to Perfection
Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crisp, and the filling is bubbling around the edges. - Cool and Serve
Let the cake cool for about 10 to 15 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
For precise step-by-step instructions, see the recipe card below.
Strawberry Dump Cake
Equipment
- 9×13-inch Baking Dish: A large baking dish allows for an even layer of ingredients, ensuring the dump cake bakes thoroughly, creating that deliciously crispy crust and gooey interior.
- Sharp Knife – Used to trim and chop fresh strawberries. Cutting them into slightly coarse pieces adds extra texture to each bite.
- Spatula or Spoon – Although this recipe doesn’t require mixing, a spatula or spoon helps in spreading out each layer evenly in the baking dish.
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh strawberries
- 2 cans strawberry pie filling about 21-ounce
- 1 box yellow, white, or lemon cake mix 15.25-ounce
- 1½ sticks cold unsalted butter 6 ounces plus more for the baking dish
- vanilla ice cream for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Arrange a rack in the middle of the oven and heat the oven to 350°F. Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with unsalted butter. Trim 1 pound fresh strawberries and coarsely chop (heaping 3 cups).
- Layer the following in the baking dish, in the following order (do not stir together): Spread 2 (about 21-ounce) cans strawberry pie filling into an even layer. Top with half of the strawberries in an even layer. Sprinkle evenly with 1 (15.25-ounce) box yellow, white, or lemon cake mix. Cut 1½ sticks unsalted butter into thin slices and arrange over the cake mix in an even layer, covering the entire surface as best as you can. Scatter the remaining strawberries on top in an even layer.
- Bake until golden brown, bubbling, and a crispy crust begins to form, 55 to 65 minutes. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream if desired.
Notes
-
Choosing the Right Cake Mix:
Yellow, white, or lemon cake mix each offer unique flavors. Yellow cake mix provides a classic buttery taste, white cake keeps it neutral, and lemon cake adds a hint of zest, enhancing the berry flavors. Try experimenting to find your favorite! -
Fresh Strawberries:
Fresh strawberries bring an extra burst of flavor and texture. If strawberries aren’t in season, you can substitute with frozen (just make sure to thaw and drain them before use to avoid excess moisture). -
Butter Slices:
It’s essential to slice the butter thinly and spread it over the entire surface of the cake mix layer. This ensures even browning and a crisp, buttery topping that contrasts beautifully with the sweet strawberries. -
Optional Add-ins:
Try adding a sprinkle of sliced almonds, shredded coconut, or even white chocolate chips on top of the cake mix for an extra layer of flavor and texture. -
Serving Suggestions:
Strawberry Dump Cake is best served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The cold ice cream melting into the warm cake adds a luscious, creamy element.
Make-Ahead Tips:
This cake is best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated in the oven or microwave for a quick treat. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. For an extra-crisp top when reheating, use the oven instead of the microwave.Delight in Every Bite!
This Strawberry Dump Cake will quickly become a favorite in your dessert rotation, with its layers of rich strawberry flavor, buttery cake, and ease of preparation. Perfect for satisfying sweet cravings with minimal effort.Nutrition
Tips for the Best Strawberry Dump Cake
- Even Butter Distribution – Ensure the butter is evenly sliced and spread to prevent dry spots in the cake mix.
- Choose the Right Cake Mix – Yellow cake offers a rich, buttery flavor, while lemon cake adds a refreshing tang.
- Use Fresh or Frozen Strawberries – If using frozen strawberries, thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture.
- Enhance the Flavor – Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake mix for a warm, spiced undertone.
- Let it Rest – Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving to help it set and develop deeper flavors.
Serving Suggestions
This Strawberry Dump Cake is best served warm, but here are a few ways to elevate it:
- Classic Combo – Serve with vanilla ice cream for a contrast of warm and cold.
- Whipped Cream – Adds a light, creamy touch to balance the sweetness.
- Drizzle of Chocolate or Caramel – A rich topping for an indulgent twist.
- Fresh Berries on Top – A garnish of raspberries, blueberries, or extra strawberries enhances the presentation.
Storage and Reheating
How to Store Strawberry Dump Cake
- Refrigerate – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze – Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
How to Reheat
- Oven – Warm in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes for a crispy top.
- Microwave – Heat individual servings in 30-second intervals until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use fresh strawberries instead of pie filling?
A: Fresh strawberries alone won’t create the same gooey texture as pie filling. If substituting, add ½ cup of sugar and a tablespoon of cornstarch to fresh strawberries to create a syrupy consistency.
Q: Why is my dump cake dry?
A: Dry spots occur if the butter isn’t evenly spread. Make sure to slice the butter thinly and cover the entire surface.
Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?
A: Yes. This dump cake tastes even better after a few hours as the flavors meld. You can also bake it a day ahead and reheat before serving.
Chef B Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Dump Cake Recipe is the ultimate effortless dessert that brings bold strawberry flavor and a crispy, buttery topping with minimal prep. Whether you’re making it for a family dessert, a party, or just to satisfy a sweet craving, this dump cake is sure to impress.
With its easy preparation, versatile customizations, and irresistible taste, it’s no wonder why dump cakes are a favorite in many households. Try this recipe today, and enjoy a slice of warm, fruity goodness straight from your oven.
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Hi, I’m Chef B! Passionate about all things culinary, I’ve spent years perfecting my recipes to bring bold flavors to your kitchen. Let’s cook up something delicious together!
Amazing!!! My family loved it so much. This has just joined my favoprites list