Strawberry Dump Cake Recipe: Easy & Delicious Dessert

📝 Introduction

Strawberry dump cake is one of those nostalgic, crowd-pleasing desserts I always recommend when someone asks for something easy, fruity, and guaranteed to satisfy. We feature this timeless favorite because it represents everything I love about simple home baking: low effort, maximum flavor, and endless creative variations that even beginner bakers can master.

The origins of the dump cake trace back to the 1960s in the United States, a decade when convenience baking became a national trend. Home bakers fell in love with the idea of simply “dumping” a few pantry-friendly ingredients into a baking dish — typically canned fruit or pie filling, boxed cake mix, and melted butter — then popping it into the oven with no mixing, sifting, or special tools required. It was the golden age of quick bakes and potluck dishes.

While the earliest dump cakes featured fruits like pineapple, cherry, and peach, strawberries started to gain popularity in the late 1970s. As more home cooks experimented with in-season produce and strawberry farming expanded across North America, this sweet berry quickly earned its place in the dump cake rotation — adding a beautiful red hue and a refreshing tang to the classic dessert.

Over the years, this simple yet delicious dessert has crossed borders and found its way into kitchens all over the globe. Thanks to its adaptability and irresistible flavor, the strawberry dump cake now holds a cherished spot in international baking culture.

🌍 Top 10 Countries That Love Strawberry Dump Cake

If you’re wondering just how widespread the love for strawberry dump cake is, here’s a look at the top 10 countries where it’s most frequently baked and enjoyed:

1️⃣ 🇺🇸 United States
2️⃣ 🇨🇦 Canada
3️⃣ 🇬🇧 United Kingdom
4️⃣ 🇦🇺 Australia
5️⃣ 🇳🇿 New Zealand
6️⃣ 🇩🇪 Germany
7️⃣ 🇵🇭 Philippines
8️⃣ 🇯🇵 Japan
9️⃣ 🇰🇷 South Korea
🔟 🇲🇽 Mexico

No matter where you’re from, strawberry dump cake fits the occasion — whether you’re serving it warm with vanilla ice cream at a summer BBQ or enjoying it cold from the fridge during a relaxing Sunday brunch.

5-Star Strawberry Dump Cake Recipe You’ll Love (So Easy!)

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• Author: Donald Anderson
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 8–10 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Learn how to make the best Strawberry Dump Cake! Easy, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. Simple step-by-step guide and helpful tips included.

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Ingredients

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• 2 cans (21 oz each) strawberry pie filling
• 1 box (15.25 oz) vanilla cake mix
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, sliced
• Optional: 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced

• Optional: 8 oz cream cheese, cubed

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Instructions

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Assembling the Cake

1. Pour strawberry pie filling evenly into the prepared baking dish.
2. If using, add fresh strawberry slices and cream cheese cubes.
3. Sprinkle vanilla cake mix evenly over the top of the fruit layer.

Baking the Cake

1. Arrange sliced butter evenly on top of the dry cake mix.
2. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
3. Let cool slightly before serving.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

🛒 What You’ll Need

Creating this easy strawberry dump cake requires only a few basic ingredients and tools. That’s what makes it such a favorite on my site, Donald Recipes. When you’re short on time but still want a dessert that impresses, this one fits the bill perfectly. 🍓✨

🍽️ Essential Equipment

You won’t need fancy gadgets — just kitchen basics:

• 9×13-inch baking dish — Perfect size for even baking and layering.
• Mixing bowl — Optional, for prepping fresh ingredients.
• Measuring cups — For butter and any optional add-ins.
• Spatula or spoon — For spreading and serving.

🛍️ Pantry Staples

Here’s what I always keep on hand for this recipe:

• 1 box vanilla cake mix (15.25 oz) — A versatile base that lets the strawberries shine.
• Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, sliced) — Melts into the cake mix, creating a rich, buttery topping.

🍓 Fresh Ingredients

To make your dump cake extra special:

• 2 cans strawberry pie filling (21 oz each) — Sweet and vibrant, this is the heart of the dessert.
• Optional: 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced — For brightness and a pop of fresh flavor.
• Optional: 8 oz cream cheese, cubed — Adds a creamy, decadent layer.

If you enjoy simple recipes that deliver big flavor, you’ll also love my Butter Swim Biscuits. They pair wonderfully with this dump cake for a comforting weekend brunch or a potluck spread.

🥣 Ingredients

One reason I enjoy sharing this strawberry dump cake is because of how wonderfully simple it is. The ingredient list is short, and the steps are practically foolproof — perfect for novice bakers or anyone craving a quick dessert. 🍓💫

You’ll be amazed at how these few items come together to create a bubbly, golden treat.

🎂 Core Ingredients

Here’s exactly what you’ll need to make this delightful dessert:

• 2 cans (21 oz each) strawberry pie filling — Sweet, fruity, and ready to use right out of the can.
• 1 box (15.25 oz) vanilla cake mix — No need to prepare the batter — just sprinkle it on top.
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, sliced — Helps create that signature crispy, buttery topping.

🍓 Optional Additions

Looking to add even more flavor and texture to your cake? Consider these:

• 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced — Adds a fresh, juicy layer.
• 8 oz cream cheese, cubed — melts to create luscious pockets of creamy goodness

If you’re looking for another crowd-friendly dessert, my Blueberry Cloud Jello Salad is a light, fruity option that complements this dump cake beautifully — especially for summer picnics or family gatherings.

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Whipping up this easy strawberry dump cake is as simple as it gets! That’s why it’s a recipe I often recommend to beginners or anyone short on time. The secret is in the layering — no mixing required. Just follow these steps and you’ll have a bubbly, golden dessert in under an hour. 🍓✨

🔪 Preparation Steps

Take a moment to get your kitchen ready before diving in:

1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 350°F — getting the temperature right ensures the perfect bake.
2️⃣Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray — this simple step ensures effortless serving and easy cleanup.

🍓 Assembling the Cake

Time for the fun step — layering all your ingredients:

1️⃣Spread the strawberry pie filling in an even layer across the bottom of the greased baking dish.
2️⃣ If using, add fresh strawberry slices and cream cheese cubes on top of the filling — this adds texture and creaminess.
3️⃣ Sprinkle the vanilla cake mix evenly over the fruit layer — resist the urge to stir!

🧈 Baking the Cake

Almost there! The final step is all about creating that irresistible topping:

1️⃣ Arrange sliced butter evenly across the top of the dry cake mix — the butter will melt, combining with the cake mix to form a crisp, golden crust.
2️⃣ Bake for 45-50 minutes — or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
3️⃣ Let cool slightly before serving — this allows the layers to set for the best texture.

If you love simple oven-baked dishes, you’ll also enjoy my comforting Mississippi Mud Potatoes — another delicious recipe perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks!

⏱️ Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

One of the best things about this strawberry dump cake recipe is how quickly it comes together. From start to finish, you’ll have a delightful dessert ready in under an hour. Perfect for those days when you’re craving something sweet but don’t want to spend all afternoon in the kitchen! 🍓⏳

🕐 Time Breakdown

Here’s exactly what to expect:

• Prep Time: 5 minutes — Just layer the ingredients, no mixing needed.
• Cook Time: 45-50 minutes — The oven does all the hard work here.
• Total Time: Approximately 55 minutes from start to finish.

This quick turnaround makes strawberry dump cake ideal for last-minute get-togethers, family dinners, or when you’re hosting friends for a casual dessert night. For another easy option that fits into busy schedules, try my fun and creative Muffin Tin Sushi Cups — a great savory dish to pair with your sweet treats!

🥗 Nutrition Score (per serving, estimated)

Curious about the nutritional details of this strawberry dump cake? While it’s definitely an indulgent treat, I always say dessert should be about balance and joy. 🍓✨ There’s no need to skip out on something delicious — just enjoy it mindfully and, if desired, pair it with lighter meals throughout the day.

This dessert combines simple pantry staples: boxed yellow cake mix, canned strawberry filling or pie mix, butter, and occasionally extras like cream cheese or fresh-cut strawberries. The result is a warm, comforting dessert that lands somewhere between a cobbler and a cake — but definitely with that classic “old-school bake sale” flavor.

🍰 Breaking Down the Nutritional Facts

Here’s an estimated nutrition breakdown per serving, assuming 8–10 portions from a standard 9×13-inch baking dish. Actual values may vary based on the brand of ingredients, butter quantity, and whether you include any delicious add-ins like white chocolate chips or a dollop of whipped cream.

📋 Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving):

• Calories: 320
• Total Fat: About 2 tablespoons
• Saturated Fat: About 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon
• Cholesterol: 40 mg
• Sodium: 320 mg
• Total Carbohydrates: Just over ¼ cup
• Dietary Fiber: Around 1 teaspoon
• Total Sugars: Roughly 2 tablespoons
• Protein: Around ½ tablespoon

🌿 Health-Conscious Serving Ideas

If you’re trying to keep things lighter, you can serve a smaller portion or balance it with healthy meals earlier in the day. One idea? Pair this dessert with a nutritious entrée like my Roasted Tofu Grain Bowls with Miso Tahini Sauce. It’s packed with plant protein, hearty grains, and creamy umami flavor that makes it satisfying without being heavy.

Strawberry dump cake might be sweet, but with the right balance, it can absolutely have a spot in any lifestyle. ✨🍽️

🍴 Serving & Storage

Once your strawberry dump cake is bubbling and golden from the oven, it’s time to dive into the best part — serving it up! Whether you enjoy it fresh and warm or prefer it cold the next day, this cake holds up beautifully and only gets more flavorful as it rests. 🍓🎂 With minimal effort, you’ll have a dessert that not only delights in the moment but also makes the perfect treat for later in the week.

🍰 How to Serve

Serving options for this strawberry dump cake are as versatile as they are tasty. Here are a few of my personal favorites:

• Warm with Vanilla Ice Cream: Straight from the oven, topped with a generous scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream — the way the ice cream melts into the cake is pure heaven.
• Cool & Refreshing: Keep it refrigerated and savor it chilled the following day.
• Party-Ready with Whipped Cream: For special occasions, doll it up with a swirl of whipped cream and sliced fresh strawberries. This simple touch turns it into a potluck or picnic showstopper.

Looking for something savory to balance out all that sweetness? Try my Chopped Italian Sandwich — packed with deli meats, cheese, and tangy dressing, it’s the ultimate make-ahead main that complements this dessert beautifully.

🧊 Storage Tips

Storing leftover strawberry dump cake couldn’t be easier. Once it cools completely, cover it with foil or transfer it to an airtight container. It stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days. When you’re ready for another slice, you can:

• Warm it in the microwave for around 30 seconds to bring back that just-baked coziness.
• Eat it cold for a firmer, fruitier texture — some people even prefer it this way!

Need more meal inspiration that keeps well and is just as easy? Browse my Leftover-Friendly Recipes to keep your menu flexible and flavorful.

🎭 Variations

One of my favorite things about this strawberry dump cake recipe is how endlessly versatile it is. Once you’ve mastered the classic version of strawberry dump cake, there’s no limit to the flavor upgrades you can try. Whether you’re after a burst of citrus brightness, a satisfying crunch, or a touch of creamy indulgence, this strawberry dump cake invites endless creative twists. 🍓✨ You can even adapt it based on the season or occasion, making it a go-to dessert for holidays, potlucks, and casual family nights.

🍋 Flavor Twists That Brighten Your Strawberry Dump Cake

• Add Lemon Zest: A teaspoon of lemon zest stirred into the strawberry filling elevates your strawberry dump cake with vibrant freshness and a hint of tartness.
• Infuse with Extracts: Vanilla or almond extract adds depth to the strawberry filling. For an almond-forward strawberry dump cake, use ½ teaspoon of almond extract with the fruit.
• Orange Liqueur Twist: Mix a splash of orange liqueur into the strawberry layer for a sophisticated version of dump cake with a warm, citrusy kick.

🥥 Toppings to Add Texture to Your Strawberry Dump Cake

• Shredded Coconut: Sprinkle coconut over the strawberry dump cake before baking— it toasts in the oven, adding a chewy, nutty layer of flavor.
• Crushed Nuts: Add walnuts, pecans, or sliced almonds for a crunchy contrast against the soft fruit filling and tender cake topping in your strawberry dump cake.

🍫 Rich & Decadent Strawberry Dump Cake Upgrades

• White Chocolate Chips: For an extra indulgent strawberry dump cake, sprinkle white chocolate chips over the cake mix before baking.
• Cream Cheese Swirl: Drop spoonfuls of cream cheese into the strawberry filling layer for creamy, tangy pockets throughout your strawberry dump cake.
• Condensed Milk Drizzle: Pour a few tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk over the cake mix layer to make the top of your strawberry dump cake caramelized and gooey.

Love dessert customization? Check out my Coconut Panna Cotta with Mango for another crowd-pleasing treat that’s just as easy to tailor.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

🏁 Conclusion

Strawberry dump cake is a timeless, crowd-pleasing dessert that has earned a permanent spot in my recipe collection on Donald Recipes. 🍓✨ It’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, summer picnics, or any time you want something sweet with minimal effort.

With its nostalgic flavor, buttery topping, and customizable options, it’s no wonder this dessert remains a favorite worldwide. Plus, it pairs beautifully with both savory mains and light salads — try it after serving my Sweet Potato Breakfast Hash for a delightful brunch combo.

🎉 Why You’ll Love It

✅ Minimal prep — just layer and bake.
✅ Customizable with endless variations.
✅ Make-ahead friendly — flavors improve overnight.
✅ Loved by both kids and adults alike.

Now that you know how to make the best strawberry dump cake, I hope you give it a try soon — and enjoy every single bite! 🍓💛

If you’re looking for even more easy dessert ideas, don’t miss my fun Cloud Eggs Recipe — another creative dish that’s as pretty as it is tasty.