This simple strawberry dump cake is for anyone short on time and in desperate need of dessert. You do exactly as the name suggests: dump the ingredients into a baking dish. No mixing! It’s so darn easy to learn how to make a dump cake that you’ll probably memorize it after just one go.
Once baked, you have a fruity filling that’s warm and gooey with a golden, buttery cake topping. You can serve each slice with fresh strawberries and whipped cream for garnish—or eat a spoonful right out of the baking dish.
Strawberry Dump Cake Ingredients
- Strawberry pie filling: This strawberry dump cake recipe is all about being quick and easy, so we use strawberry pie filling as a delicious shortcut.
- White cake mix: This is the best white cake mix, according to our Test Kitchen experts.
- Butter: The butter melts into the cake mix and bakes it into a cobbler-like topping. Use a high-quality butter brand here as you’ll really be able to taste it.
- Toppings: Top your cake servings with fresh fruit and sweetened whipped cream. A scoop of vanilla ice cream wouldn’t hurt, either.
Directions
Step 1: Spread on the pie filling
Preheat your oven to 350°F, and grease a 13×9-inch baking dish. Spread the strawberry pie filling all over the bottom of the dish.
Step 2: Dump the cake mix on top
Next, sprinkle the cake mix evenly over the top. Resist the urge to stir it all together.
Step 3: Add the pats of butter
Line the top evenly with the cold, cubed butter. The butter will spread as it melts and bake into the cake mix.
Step 4: Bake
Bake until the filling is bubbly and the top is golden brown, 45 to 60 minutes. Scoop out a serving while the cake is still warm, and top it with fresh strawberries and whipped cream, if desired.
Recipe Variations
- Swap the cake mix: One of the great aspects of a dump cake recipe is that you can really use any cake mix. Vanilla, strawberry and even chocolate would pair perfectly with the strawberry filling.
- Try a different filling: Swapping out the filling is simple. Use your favorite filling flavor here. Raspberry, cherry, peach and mixed berry are all great contenders.
- Add some fresh fruit: Chop up fresh strawberries (or any berries you’d like to use) and dot them on the filling before dumping on the boxed cake mix.
- Create texture: Once the cake mix is sprinkled on top, add some chopped pecans or shredded coconut for a crunchy texture and added flavor.
How to Store Strawberry Dump Cake
Let the cake cool completely to room temperature, then wrap the baking dish in storage wrap, or place the cake in an airtight container. Store the cake in the fridge for up to three days, and rewarm leftovers in the microwave.
Strawberry Dump Cake Tips
Why is it called a dump cake?
Dump cake earned its name from its dump-and-bake method. All dump cake recipes use a similar formula: Gather the ingredients, dump them into a baking, resist the urge to stir, and bake until the topping is golden brown.
Can I make strawberry dump cake in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make this strawberry dump cake recipe in a slow cooker. Follow the same instructions but build in a slow cooker instead of a baking dish. Cook the dump cake on low for four hours. Scoop your servings, and enjoy!
