One-Pan Strawberry Bliss

Strawberry Dump Cake is a beloved dessert, renowned for its incredible simplicity and mouth-watering flavor. With just four basic ingredients, this recipe makes a quick yet irresistibly delicious treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Bursting with the sweet and juicy taste of strawberries, this luscious cake comes together with minimal effort, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.

This easy cake recipe is one of those culinary gems that requires almost no fuss but consistently delivers spectacular results. It strikes a delightful balance between a traditional cobbler and a moist cake, offering an unparalleled texture and rich flavor. If you’re a fan of comforting desserts and simple strawberry treats, then this no-fuss dump cake is an absolute must-try. Its delightful strawberry notes are reminiscent of other beloved desserts like Strawberry Crunch Bars, Strawberry Shortcake Popsicles, and a classic Strawberry Trifle.

Beyond its strawberry goodness, we also adore other effortless creations such as Sock It To Me Cake and the festive Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake. For those who appreciate the convenience and deliciousness of dump cakes, be sure to explore our recipes for Pumpkin Dump Cake and Easy Chocolate Dump Cake. These recipes perfectly embody the “dump cake” philosophy: minimal prep for maximum enjoyment.

What is a Dump Cake?

If you’re new to the world of dump cakes, prepare to have your dessert-making routine revolutionized! A dump cake is precisely what its name implies: a cake where you simply “dump” all the ingredients into a baking dish, typically in layers, and then bake. There’s no mixing bowl required, no complicated steps, and often, no need for eggs or oil beyond what’s already in the cake mix (or provided by the butter in this recipe). This minimal-effort approach is what makes dump cakes incredibly popular, particularly for those seeking a delicious homemade dessert without the extensive cleanup or prep time. They are known for their moist, fruit-filled bottom layer and a golden, slightly crumbly cake-like topping. The result is a wonderfully comforting dessert that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen, when in reality, it took mere minutes to assemble.

Why This Strawberry Dump Cake is a Must-Try

There are countless reasons to fall in love with this particular Strawberry Dump Cake recipe. First and foremost, its simplicity is unmatched. Requiring only four ingredients, it’s a recipe that even novice bakers can master with ease. This also means it’s incredibly budget-friendly, allowing you to whip up a generous dessert for your family or a crowd without breaking the bank. It’s a true win-win: delicious flavor, minimal cost, and virtually no effort.

Beyond its practical benefits, this dump cake offers a delightful flavor profile. The sweet, slightly tart strawberry filling bubbles up through the moist cake topping, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. It’s warm, inviting, and utterly comforting, especially when served à la mode. I’ve always had a soft spot for cobblers and any dessert that pairs perfectly with a scoop of creamy ice cream, and this strawberry dump cake fits the bill perfectly. I’m absolutely thrilled for you to experience this simple joy!

If your love for strawberry desserts runs deep, you might also enjoy our Strawberry Angel Food Cake or the classic Paula Deen Strawberry Cake. And for a truly decadent treat, don’t miss our Better Than Sex Cake Recipe, another crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly easy to make.

Essential Ingredients for Strawberry Dump Cake

The beauty of this strawberry dump cake lies in its minimal ingredient list, each playing a crucial role in creating this delightful dessert.

• Strawberry Pie Filling: The star of the show! You’ll need two 21-ounce cans of strawberry pie filling. This provides the luscious, sweet, and slightly tart base of the cake. The pre-thickened filling is key to the “dump and bake” method, as it doesn’t require any additional liquid or thickening agents. You can typically find this in the baking aisle of any grocery store.
• White or Yellow Cake Mix: A standard box of white or yellow cake mix forms the dry topping that, when combined with melted butter, transforms into a wonderfully crumbly, cake-like crust. Both white and yellow mixes work beautifully, with yellow providing a slightly richer, vanilla-forward flavor and white offering a cleaner, sweeter profile. Feel free to use your favorite brand. For a truly homemade touch, consider our Homemade Cake Mix recipe.
• Unsalted Butter: One stick (or ½ cup) of melted butter is drizzled over the dry cake mix. As the cake bakes, the butter seeps into the cake mix, creating a rich, golden-brown, slightly crispy topping that perfectly complements the soft, fruity base. Using real butter is essential for achieving the best flavor and texture.
• Fresh Sliced Strawberries: One pound of fresh sliced strawberries is divided for use in the cake and for garnishing. These fresh berries add a burst of vibrant flavor and a delightful texture contrast to the cooked pie filling, enhancing the overall strawberry experience.

Creative Variations and Substitutions

While the classic Strawberry Dump Cake is perfect as is, it’s also incredibly versatile. Don’t hesitate to get creative with these delicious variations and substitutions to customize your dessert:

• Cream Cheese Layer: For an extra layer of decadence, add an 8-ounce package of cream cheese. Before sprinkling the cake mix, cut the softened cream cheese into thin slices and arrange them evenly over the strawberry pie filling. As it bakes, the cream cheese will melt into a creamy, tangy layer, transforming your dessert into a Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake.
• Different Cake Mix Flavors: The type of cake mix can significantly alter the flavor profile.
  • Lemon Cake Mix: A lemon cake mix would provide a delightful tangy contrast to the sweet strawberries, creating a bright and refreshing dessert.
  • Strawberry Cake Mix: For an intense strawberry flavor explosion, opt for a strawberry-flavored cake mix.
  • Chocolate Cake Mix: Combine with chocolate cake mix for a rich and indulgent Chocolate Strawberry Dump Cake.
  • Vanilla or French Vanilla Cake Mix: These are always excellent choices for a classic, comforting flavor.
  • Spice Cake Mix: For a fall-inspired twist, try a spice cake mix.
• Alternative Fruit Fillings: The “dump cake” method works beautifully with almost any canned fruit pie filling. Feel free to substitute strawberry with your favorite:
  • Cherry Pie Filling: A timeless classic, perfect for a Cherry Dump Cake.
  • Apple Pie Filling: For a comforting, autumnal dessert.
  • Blueberry Pie Filling: Creates a vibrant and sweet Blueberry Dump Cake.
  • Peach Pie Filling: Ideal for a summery, juicy treat, especially delicious in a Crock Pot Peach Dump Cake.
  • Blackberry or Raspberry Pie Filling: For a tart and sweet berry experience.
  • Tropical Fruit Fillings: Consider pineapple or mango for an exotic twist. You can even combine cherry and pineapple for a Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake.
• Add-ins for Extra Flavor and Texture:
  • Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds over the cake mix for added crunch and nutty flavor.
  • Chocolate Chips: White chocolate chips, milk chocolate chips, or dark chocolate chips would be a delightful addition, especially with a chocolate or cherry filling.
  • Coconut Flakes: Toasted coconut flakes can add a tropical dimension.
  • Spices: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance fruit flavors, especially with apple or peach fillings.

How to Make the Perfect Strawberry Dump Cake

Making this Strawberry Dump Cake is incredibly straightforward. Just follow these simple steps for a truly delightful dessert:

• Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan. First, preheat your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, get your baking pan ready. A standard 9×13 inch pan works perfectly for this recipe. Make sure to generously spray it with cooking spray or grease it with butter to prevent sticking, ensuring an easy release of your delicious cake.

Step 2: Add the Strawberry Pie Filling. Next, open both cans of strawberry pie filling and pour their contents directly into the prepared 9×13 inch baking pan. Using a rubber spatula or the back of a spoon, gently spread the filling out to create an even layer across the entire bottom of the dish. This ensures every bite of cake has a generous amount of fruity goodness.

Step 3: Layer with Fresh Strawberries. Once your pie filling is smoothed out, evenly distribute about half of your fresh, thinly sliced strawberries over the top of the filling. These fresh berries will add a wonderful textural contrast and an extra burst of natural strawberry flavor that complements the canned filling beautifully.

Step 4: Sprinkle the Cake Mix. Now, take your box of dry cake mix and sprinkle it evenly over the entire layer of strawberry pie filling and fresh strawberries. It’s crucial to ensure there are no noticeable gaps where the filling is exposed. You want a consistent layer of cake mix across the whole surface, as this will form your delicious cake topping. Gently shaking the pan can help distribute the mix evenly.

Step 5: Drizzle with Melted Butter. Finally, melt one stick (½ cup) of butter and carefully drizzle it all over the dry cake mix layer. The goal here is to get the butter distributed as evenly as possible. This melted butter is what will hydrate the cake mix during baking, transforming it into a wonderfully golden and crispy crust. Don’t worry if there are a few dry spots; the steam from the fruit filling will help cook those areas too.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden. Place your assembled dump cake into the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 45-50 minutes, or until the top becomes a beautiful golden brown and the fruit filling is bubbly around the edges. Keep in mind that oven temperatures can vary, so it’s a good idea to start checking on your cake around the 40-minute mark to ensure it doesn’t overbake. The top should feel firm when lightly pressed.

Step 7: Cool and Serve. Once baked to perfection, carefully remove the cake from the oven. Let it cool slightly on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving. This allows the cake to set slightly and makes it easier to scoop. The cake is absolutely divine served warm, especially with your favorite toppings!

Serving Suggestions and Topping Ideas

A warm Strawberry Dump Cake is a treat on its own, but adding toppings can elevate it to an even more memorable dessert experience. Here are some of our favorite ways to serve this delightful cake:

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of light and airy whipped cream is a classic pairing. The cool, creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the warm cake. You can make your own easy homemade whipped cream for an extra special touch.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: Serving a scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream over the warm cake creates a truly indulgent experience. The ice cream melts slightly into the cake, forming a delicious sauce. For a homemade option, try this easy vanilla ice cream recipe, or consider No-Churn Strawberry Ice Cream for an ultimate strawberry dessert.
• Fresh Fruit Medley: Enhance the fresh strawberry flavor by topping the cake with more fresh sliced strawberries or a mix of fresh berries like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries. A sprig of fresh mint can add a touch of elegance and freshness.
• Chocolate Drizzle: For chocolate lovers, a light drizzle of melted chocolate or chocolate syrup over the top can add a layer of richness that pairs wonderfully with strawberries.
• Powdered Sugar: A simple dusting of powdered sugar provides a beautiful finish and a hint of extra sweetness.
• Lemon Zest: A little lemon zest grated over the top before serving can brighten the flavors and add a fresh aroma.

Storage Tips for Your Dump Cake

Leftover Strawberry Dump Cake is just as delicious the next day! To ensure it stays fresh and flavorful, proper storage is key:

• Refrigeration: Once the cake has cooled completely to room temperature, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Store the cake in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheating individual servings in the microwave for a few seconds can bring back that warm, gooey freshness.
• Freezing: If you want to store your dump cake for a longer period, it freezes well. After the cake has completely cooled, wrap individual slices or the entire cake (if in a freezer-safe dish) tightly in plastic wrap, then an additional layer of aluminum foil. Label with the date. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat individual slices in the microwave for 30-60 seconds, or until warmed through. You can also reheat the entire cake in an oven preheated to 300°F (150°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warm. Loosely cover with foil to prevent the topping from drying out.

For more detailed information on cake storage, check out our guide on How Long Does Cake Last in the Fridge.

Expert Tips for Dump Cake Success

Even though dump cakes are incredibly simple, a few expert tips can ensure your Strawberry Dump Cake turns out perfectly every time:

• Even Butter Distribution is Key: When drizzling the melted butter over the cake mix, aim for the most even coverage possible. The butter is crucial for hydrating the cake mix and creating that desirable golden, crisp topping. If you have trouble drizzling evenly, you can use a pastry brush to gently spread the butter over the dry mix, being careful not to disturb the layers too much.
• Don’t Stir the Layers: The magic of a dump cake lies in its distinct layers. Resist the urge to stir the ingredients once they are in the pan. Each layer plays its part in creating the final texture and flavor profile.
• Prepping Ahead: This cake is so quick to assemble that it’s perfect for last-minute dessert needs. However, if you need to save even more time, you can slice your fresh strawberries a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. The cake itself can also be made a day in advance and gently reheated before serving.
• Cool Slightly Before Serving: While it’s tempting to dig in right out of the oven, allowing the cake to cool slightly (about 10-15 minutes) on a cooling rack helps the layers set. This makes for cleaner scoops and prevents the cake from being too runny, especially when serving warm with toppings.
• Thinly Slice Fresh Strawberries: For the best texture and even distribution throughout the cake, ensure your fresh strawberries are sliced thinly. Thick slices might not soften as much during baking and could create uneven spots in your cake.
• Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your cake as it bakes. The top should be visibly golden brown, and the fruit filling should be bubbling around the edges. If the top is browning too quickly but the cake isn’t fully cooked, you can loosely tent it with aluminum foil for the remaining bake time.

Frequently Asked Questions about Strawberry Dump Cake

Here are answers to some common questions you might have about making this delicious strawberry dump cake:

• Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
  Yes, you can! If using frozen sliced strawberries, you do not need to thaw them first. Place them directly on top of the pie filling as instructed. They might release a little more liquid during baking, but the cake will still turn out wonderfully.
• Can I make this dairy-free?
  To make this cake dairy-free, you would need to use a dairy-free cake mix and substitute the butter with a dairy-free butter alternative (like a plant-based butter stick, melted). The strawberry pie filling and fresh strawberries are naturally dairy-free.
• What kind of baking dish should I use?
  A 9×13 inch glass or ceramic baking dish is ideal for this recipe. Metal pans work too, but keep in mind they might bake slightly faster, so adjust your baking time accordingly.
• How do I know when the dump cake is done baking?
  The cake is done when the top crust is beautifully golden brown and the fruit filling underneath is visibly bubbling around the edges. The top should also feel set and slightly firm to the touch.
• Can I double the recipe?
  Yes, you can easily double this recipe! You’ll need two 9×13 inch baking pans, or a larger roasting pan if you have one big enough. Simply double all the ingredients and follow the same layering and baking instructions.
• Why is it called a “dump cake”?
  It gets its name from the simple preparation method: you “dump” all the ingredients into a baking pan without any pre-mixing or complex steps. It’s a testament to how easy and straightforward the recipe is!

More Irresistible Dump Cake Recipes

If you’ve fallen in love with the ease and deliciousness of this Strawberry Dump Cake, you’ll be thrilled to discover how versatile this dessert category is! Here are more fantastic dump cake recipes that are just as simple to make and equally delightful:

• Cherry Dump Cake Recipe: A classic and universally loved combination of sweet cherry pie filling and a golden cake topping.
• Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake Recipe: Combines the delightful flavors of strawberries with a creamy, tangy cheesecake twist for an extra decadent treat.
• Lemon Dump Cake: Bright and zesty, this dump cake is perfect for those who enjoy a refreshing, citrusy dessert.
• Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake Recipe: A tropical-inspired blend of sweet cherries and tangy pineapple, creating a juicy and flavorful cake.
• Blueberry Dump Cake: Loaded with juicy blueberries, this cake is a vibrant and sweet option for berry lovers.
• Crock Pot Peach Dump Cake: Enjoy the convenience of your slow cooker to create a warm, tender, and incredibly flavorful peach dump cake with minimal effort.

Making this easy dessert recipe promises a truly great treat for any occasion. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do! Please leave a comment and a star rating below if you try it!