Strawberry Dump Cake Recipe – 3 Ingredients

Strawberry dump cake recipe is a warm, comforting dessert made with just a few pantry staples layered together and baked until golden.

This strawberry dump cake recipe came to life out of a love for easy, no-fuss baking and discovering new things is my real job.

The main purpose behind creating this strawberry dump cake recipe is to share a quick solution for busy people who still want to enjoy a homemade treat.

Made especially for families, beginners, or anyone craving something sweet with minimal prep. Dump cakes trace back to mid-20th-century America when convenience foods became popular.

Now, here’s how to make this dessert effortlessly, along with serving ideas, helpful tips, health benefits, storage methods, and answers to common questions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This strawberry dump cake recipe brings together sweet strawberries and buttery cake topping in a way that delights every time.

The minimal ingredients make it easy to prepare quickly, saving time without sacrificing flavor. The warm, bubbling fruit pairs beautifully with the crisp, golden crust, creating a comforting dessert that feels homemade.

No mixing or complicated techniques are needed, making it accessible for all skill levels. This strawberry dump cake recipe allows for creativity through variations and toppings, while still delivering a classic taste those appeals to kids and adults alike.

How To Prepare Strawberry Dump Cake Recipe?

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 45 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

Calories: 320 (per serving)

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Serving Size: 8 servings

Kitchen Utensils Needed

• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Mixing spoon or spatula
• Measuring cup
• Small bowl for melting butter
• Oven mitts

Ingredients

• 1 box yellow cake mix
• 2 cans (21 ounces each) strawberry pie filling
• ¾ cup (1½ sticks) salted butter, melted

Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2:

Pour both cans of strawberry pie filling into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula or spoon to spread the filling evenly across the bottom.

Step 3:

Evenly sprinkle the entire box of dry yellow cake mix over the strawberry filling. Do not mix it in just spread it in a single, even layer.

Step 4:

Slowly drizzle the melted butter over the top of the dry cake mix, trying to cover as much of the surface as possible. It’s okay if some dry spots remain, as they’ll still bake nicely and create a crumbly topping.

Step 5:

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the strawberry filling is bubbly around the edges. Let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Serve warm, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Notes

You can substitute strawberry pie filling with other fruit fillings like cherry or blueberry for variety. If you prefer a crispier topping, add an extra tablespoon or two of melted butter. This is called a “dump cake” because all the ingredients are essentially dumped into the dish no mixing bowls required!

Why My Recipe Works

This strawberry dump cake recipe works because it relies on simple, quality ingredients that come together effortlessly. The strawberry pie filling provides sweet, juicy fruit, while the dry cake mix creates a light, crumbly topping once baked.

Melting the butter and pouring it over the cake mix helps it crisp up and brown beautifully, adding rich flavor and texture. No mixing or extra steps mean less chance for error and quick prep time.

The balance of sweet strawberries and buttery crust delivers a comforting dessert that feels homemade without a lot of fuss.

Servings Ideas Strawberry Dump Cake Recipe

Serve this warm strawberry dump cake recipe with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a creamy contrast that melts into the fruit’s sweetness. A dollop of whipped cream adds lightness and extra indulgence.

For a tangy twist, try a spoonful of Greek yogurt on top. Sprinkle toasted almonds or shredded coconut over each serving to add a bit of crunch.

Fresh mint leaves can brighten the presentation and add a hint of freshness. For gatherings, cut into squares and serve on a pretty platter for easy sharing.

Health Benefits

Strawberry dump cake offers some surprising health benefits thanks to its key ingredient—strawberries. Strawberries are rich in antioxidants, which help fight inflammation and protect the body from free radicals.

They’re also a good source of vitamin C, which supports the immune system and promotes healthy skin. Additionally, strawberries provide dietary fiber, aiding digestion and helping to keep you feeling full longer.

The cake is a sweet treat and should be enjoyed in moderation, including strawberries adds a nutritional boost that makes this dessert a bit more wholesome than many other sugary options.

Helpful Tips

1. Use cold strawberry pie filling straight from the can to keep the layers distinct and prevent the bottom from becoming too watery. This helps maintain a nice texture in the finished cake.

2. Spread the dry cake mix evenly over the strawberry layer so that every bite has a balanced amount of topping. Uneven distribution can lead to some parts being soggy while others are too dry.

3. Melt the butter slowly and carefully whether on the stove or in the microwave—to avoid burning. Drizzle it evenly over the cake mix to help it crisp up and brown beautifully during baking.

4. Allow the cake to cool for about 10 to 15 minutes after it comes out of the oven. This cooling time helps the cake set and makes it easier to cut and serve without falling apart.

5. Add texture and flavor by sprinkling chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, on top before baking. This adds a delightful crunch that complements the soft fruit and buttery crust.

What Is The Biggest Mistake To Avoid When Making A Dump Cake?

The biggest mistake to avoid when making a dump cake is not spreading the cake mix evenly over the fruit filling.

Uneven distribution can result in parts of the cake being overly dry while others remain too moist. For best results, make sure to sprinkle the cake mix evenly across the top of the fruit filling and avoid stirring or mixing.

Why Is It Called A Dump Cake?

The term “dump cake” refers to the simplicity and ease of the recipe, where the name derives from the process of “dumping” the ingredients into a baking dish without much preparation.

The method involves layering fruit filling at the bottom of the dish, topping it with dry cake mix, and then drizzling melted butter over the top—all in a quick and uncomplicated manner.

This straightforward approach eliminates the need for mixing or complex steps, making dump cake a popular choice for home bakers looking for a hassle-free dessert that still delivers on taste and texture.

Do You Refrigerate Dump Cake After Baking?

Dump cake can be stored at room temperature for a few days after baking, as long as it is kept in an airtight container.

However, if you plan to keep it for more than a few days or if your kitchen is particularly warm, refrigerating it can help maintain its freshness and prevent any potential spoilage.

Simply cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator. If you prefer to enjoy it warm, you can reheat individual servings in the microwave or oven before serving.

How To Store Strawberry Dump Cake Recipe

Allow the cake to cool completely before storing to prevent sogginess. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer leftovers to an airtight container.

Keep it refrigerated, where it will stay fresh for up to four days. When ready to enjoy again, warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the whole dish in the oven at a low temperature until heated through.

For longer storage, wrap portions well in foil or plastic wrap and place them in the freezer. Frozen cake can be kept for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion

Strawberry Dump Cake recipe is a fantastic example of how simple ingredients and minimal effort can yield a delicious and satisfying dessert.

This easy-to-make cake combines the sweet and tangy flavor of strawberries with a buttery, crumbly topping, creating a comforting treat that’s perfect for any occasion.

Enjoy the rich flavors and warm textures of this classic dessert, and savor the satisfaction of a homemade treat that requires just a few simple steps.