Looking for a quick and easy three-ingredient dessert that’s perfect for any gathering? Strawberry dump cake might just be your answer! This delicious dessert is made with a few basic components—fresh strawberries, canned strawberry pie filling, and a white cake mix—so it only takes minutes to assemble. All you need to do is dump the ingredients into a baking dish; there’s no need to mix anything! For a twist, check out the Chocolate-Cherry Dump Cake too, which is just as simple and delicious.
Try using different flavors of boxed cake mix like lemon or even chocolate for variety. A buttery, crumbly cake topping adds just the right deliciousness, especially with a dollop of whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or some cream cheese for an extra tang. Reminiscent of a fruit cobbler, this treat has a mouthwatering fruity flavor that’s ideal for summer!
Strawberry Dump Cake Ingredients
Making a strawberry dump cake is incredibly simple and requires three ingredients. Here’s a quick, step-by-step guide to help you get started with this easy dessert.
- Start with the Strawberry Filling: Use canned strawberry pie filling for a quick shortcut with a sweet, fruity flavor. If you want a touch of extra strawberry goodness, add some chopped fresh strawberries. The syrupy glaze in the pie filling creates a rich base for your cake. You can also use frozen strawberries—just be sure to thaw and drain excess moisture first.
- Add the Cake Mix: Choose a boxed cake mix flavor. For a classic taste, go with yellow; for something fun, try white or strawberry cake mix for a pink color. If you’re feeling adventurous, a chocolate cake mix adds a unique twist. This shortcut saves you from making a batter from scratch.
- Top with Butter: Take cold pats of unsalted butter and place them evenly over the cake mix. As the butter melts in the oven, it forms a delicious cobbler-like crust with a golden brown finish. This buttery topping is essential for a crumbly, flavorful texture.
- Add Optional Toppings: Although it’s optional, you might want to top the cake with vanilla ice cream for a creamy contrast or a bit of cream cheese for extra tang. Other great topping ideas include whipped cream or a sprinkle of sugar.
With just these few steps, you’ll have a delicious strawberry dump cake that’s ready to enjoy!
How To Make Strawberry Dump Cake
Making a strawberry dump cake is super easy and can be done in just four simple steps. You only need a few items from your pantry and fridge, and within an hour, you’ll have a delicious dessert that’s sure to please. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started.
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Filling
First, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Then, spoon strawberry filling into the dish. If you like a stronger strawberry flavor, add some fresh strawberries to the filling for that extra fruity taste.
Step 2: Add the Cake Mix
Next, take a box of cake mix (yellow, vanilla, or strawberry for a fun twist) and sprinkle it evenly over the strawberry filling. This shortcut saves time since the cake mix will act as the batter for your dump cake, forming a buttery, crisp crust on top.
Step 3: Top with Butter
Cut the butter into pats and place them liberally over the cake mix. This step is crucial for a perfect texture, as the butter will melt and blend with the mix, giving your dump cake a crisp and golden-brown crust. Check after 10 minutes to make sure all dry spots are covered.
Step 4: Bake and Serve
Now, bake the cake for about 30 to 40 minutes until the butter melts into the cake and forms a crust. When finished, pull it from the oven and cool for 20 minutes. To serve, top with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream and a few fresh strawberries if desired for the best pairing. It’s a straightforward recipe that anyone of any age or kitchen skill level can execute.
How To Store Strawberry Dump Cake
Once cooled to room temperature, store the dump cake, covered, in the refrigerator. It will last up to a few days. For longer storage, freeze the cake for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, let it thaw in the refrigerator.
Ingredients:
- 1 can (21 oz) strawberry pie filling
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow or white cake mix (or strawberry mix for extra flavor)
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cut into pats
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced (optional for extra flavor)
- 1 tsp. vanilla extract (optional for added richness)
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream (for serving, optional)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly in the bottom of the baking dish.
- Sprinkle the dry cake mix over the strawberry filling, ensuring it covers the entire surface.
- Dot the cake mix with pieces of butter, evenly spaced across the top.
- If desired, add fresh diced strawberries over the cake mix for added flavor and texture.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling.
- Remove from oven and let it cool slightly before serving with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.