Name: Strawberry Dump Cake
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: PT-487770H18M12S
Total time: PT-487770H18M12S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cans (21 oz each) strawberry pie filling (or 5 cups sweetened sliced strawberries); 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow or white cake mix; 3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, sliced into thin pats; Optional: 1 cup fresh strawberries, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1/2 cup chopped nuts, or 1/2 cup shredded coconut

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Strawberry Dump Cake is the ultimate low-effort, high-reward dessert. It requires no mixing, no special equipment, and just a few pantry-friendly ingredients. The combination of sweet strawberries, tender cake topping, and melted butter creates an irresistible texture and flavor. You can serve it warm with ice cream or chilled on its own. It’s easy to customize with other fruits or cake flavors, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Strawberry pie filling or sweetened sliced strawberries
Boxed yellow or white cake mix
Unsalted butter, sliced into thin pats
Optional: fresh strawberries, vanilla extract, chopped nuts, or shredded coconut

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Pour the strawberry pie filling evenly into the bottom of the dish. If using sweetened strawberries, spread them out in an even layer.
Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the strawberries—do not stir.
Distribute the sliced butter evenly over the top of the cake mix, covering as much of the surface as possible.
Optional: Add chopped nuts or shredded coconut on top for added texture.
Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
Let cool slightly before serving.

Servings and timing

Makes 12 servings.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Bake time: 45–50 minutes
Total time: About 50–55 minutes

Variations

Strawberry pineapple: Add a layer of crushed pineapple beneath the strawberry filling for a sweet and tart combo.
Chocolate twist: Use chocolate cake mix instead of yellow for a chocolate-covered strawberry flavor.
Strawberry shortcake style: Serve with whipped cream and fresh sliced strawberries.
Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free boxed cake mix.
Lemon flair: Add lemon zest or use lemon cake mix for a bright, citrusy contrast.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover dump cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, place a portion in the microwave for 20–30 seconds until warm, or reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10–15 minutes.
This dessert can also be frozen in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

FAQs

Do I need to prepare the cake mix first?

No. You sprinkle the dry cake mix directly over the strawberry filling—no mixing required.

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of pie filling?

Yes, but you’ll need to macerate them with sugar or add a bit of cornstarch and sugar to mimic pie filling texture.

Why is it called a dump cake?

Because you literally “dump” all the ingredients into the baking dish without mixing them together.

Can I use other fruits?

Absolutely. This recipe works well with peaches, blueberries, apples, cherries, or any fruit pie filling.

Is it supposed to be gooey in the middle?

Yes, the filling remains soft and juicy, while the top becomes crisp and golden. It should not be fully cake-like.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, bake it in advance and store in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving for best texture.

Should I cover it while baking?

No, bake uncovered to allow the top to brown and become slightly crispy.

Can I use butter substitutes?

Real butter gives the best flavor and browning, but you can use margarine or plant-based alternatives if needed.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger baking dish or two pans. You may need to slightly extend the baking time.

What’s the best way to serve strawberry dump cake?

Warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or chilled with a dollop of whipped cream.

Conclusion

Strawberry Dump Cake is a simple, delicious dessert that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. With just a few ingredients and no complicated steps, it’s the perfect last-minute sweet treat that everyone will love. Whether served warm with ice cream or cold from the fridge, this easy dessert is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings and become a repeat favorite in your kitchen.