If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both quick and delicious, strawberry dump cake is your answer. This effortless treat has become a favorite in many households, thanks to its minimal prep time and maximum flavor. Just imagine a warm, gooey mix of strawberries and cake, topped with a crispy, golden crust—pure bliss in every bite.
Originating from the simple concept of “dumping” ingredients into a baking dish, this cake is perfect for those who love homemade desserts but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving a sweet snack, strawberry dump cake offers a delightful solution that never disappoints.
Ingredients
When making a strawberry dump cake, having the right ingredients ready will ensure a smooth baking process. Here is the list of ingredients you will need:
- 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and quartered
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 ounces)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for serving (optional)
Make sure to use fresh strawberries for the best flavor. You can substitute frozen strawberries if fresh ones aren’t available, but be sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture in the cake. The lemon juice adds a hint of tartness, balancing the sweetness of the strawberries and sugar. The yellow cake mix is key to achieving a fluffy texture with a golden crust. Chopped pecans add a delightful crunch, but they’re optional if you prefer a nut-free dessert. Finally, serving your strawberry dump cake with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream takes it to the next level of indulgence.
Equipments
Having the right equipment is key to achieving the perfect strawberry dump cake. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 9×13-inch Baking Dish: Vital for achieving an even bake and that signature golden crust.
- Mixing Bowls: At least one medium-sized bowl for combining ingredients.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the best results.
- Whisk: Ideal for mixing the lemon juice with the strawberries.
- Spatula: Useful for spreading the cake mix evenly over the strawberries.
- Sharp Knife: Essential for hulling and slicing fresh strawberries.
- Aluminum Foil: Optional but can be handy for covering the cake if it starts to brown too quickly.
- Oven Mitts: Safety first – essential for handling hot dishes.
- Cooling Rack: Helps the cake cool evenly after baking.
Each piece of equipment plays a critical role in the preparation and ensures that your strawberry dump cake comes out perfectly every time.
Directions
Making a strawberry dump cake is surprisingly simple. Follow these steps to create a delicious dessert with ease.
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish
First, preheat your oven to 350°F. Take a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with butter or non-stick spray. This helps ensure the cake does not stick and makes for an easy cleanup.
Step 2: Add the Strawberry Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of fresh strawberries, hulled and halved, with 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice. Mix well until the strawberries are fully coated. Spread this strawberry mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish, creating a delicious base layer.
Step 3: Layer the Cake Mix
Next, open one box of yellow cake mix and sprinkle it evenly over the strawberry layer. Make sure to cover all the fruit so that the cake forms a cohesive layer when baked.
Step 4: Add Butter
Take 3/4 cup of unsalted butter and cut it into thin slices. Arrange these slices evenly over the top of the cake mix. As the butter melts, it will seep through the dry cake mix, creating a buttery, golden crust.
Step 5: Bake
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Remove the dish from the oven using oven mitts and let it cool on a cooling rack for about 20 minutes before serving.
Tips for the Best Strawberry Dump Cake
Use Fresh Strawberries
Selecting fresh strawberries for your dump cake will elevate the flavor and texture. Fresh strawberries are juicier which means they blend seamlessly with other ingredients and keep the cake moist. If strawberries are in-season they offer the best quality and sweetness.
Balance Sweetness
While strawberries are naturally sweet adding the right amount of granulated sugar enhances their flavor. Keep an eye on the sugar quantity to prevent overpowering sweetness. Adjust based on your strawberries’ natural sweetness.
Incorporate Lemon Juice
Adding a splash of lemon juice to the strawberry filling introduces a subtle tartness that complements the sweetness. This balance is key in bringing out complex flavors. The acidity also helps in breaking down the strawberries releasing their juices better.
Spread Cake Mix Evenly
Even distribution of the yellow cake mix is critical. Level the cake mix gently over the strawberry filling to ensure uniform layering. Any uneven patches might lead to an imbalanced texture with some parts being overly dry.
Opt for Real Butter
Using real butter over margarine or substitutes brings a rich creamy texture. Slice the butter thinly or grate it over the cake mix. This ensures it melts evenly creating a golden top crust.
Layer Pecans Artfully
If you choose to include pecans sprinkle them evenly across the top. This adds a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor contrast. Toasting the pecans lightly beforehand will elevate their taste.
Perfect Baking Temperature
Maintain an accurate oven temperature of 350°F (175°C) for optimal results. Baking the cake at this temperature ensures even cooking with a golden-brown crust and a perfectly gooey filling.
Serve Warm with Toppings
The best way to enjoy a strawberry dump cake is to serve it warm. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The cold creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the warm cake making each bite indulgent.
Store Leftovers Correctly
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to serve reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) to retain its original texture and flavor.
By following these tips, you will enjoy a consistently delightful strawberry dump cake every time.
Serving Suggestions
Strawberry dump cake is a delight on its own, but there are various ways to elevate your dessert experience. Here are my favorite serving suggestions for making your strawberry dump cake irresistibly indulgent:
Pair With Vanilla Ice Cream
Warm strawberry dump cake tastes incredible when paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold, creamy texture of the ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm and crumbly cake, creating an irresistible combination.
Top With Whipped Cream
A dollop of freshly whipped cream can add a light, airy texture to your strawberry dump cake. Store-bought whipped cream works, but making your own allows you to control the sweetness and add a touch of vanilla extract for extra flavor.
Add Fresh Berries
Enhance the fruity flavor by adding fresh strawberries or a mix of berries on top. Fresh berries add a burst of freshness and color, making the dessert look even more appealing.
Drizzle With Strawberry Sauce
For an extra punch of strawberry flavor, drizzle some strawberry sauce over your dump cake. You can make a quick sauce by simmering fresh strawberries with a bit of sugar and lemon juice until it thickens.
Sprinkle With Powdered Sugar
A light dusting of powdered sugar can make your strawberry dump cake look elegant and add a touch of sweetness. Use a fine mesh sieve to evenly distribute the powdered sugar on top.
Serve With A Side Of Custard
If you prefer a richer dessert, consider serving your strawberry dump cake with a side of custard. The smooth, creamy custard complements the texture of the dump cake and adds a luxurious touch.
With these serving ideas, you can transform a simple strawberry dump cake into a show-stopping dessert that will impress anyone.
Variations and Substitutions
When it comes to making a strawberry dump cake, there are numerous ways to tweak the recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some variations and substitutions to consider:
Different Fruit Options
If fresh strawberries are not available or you want to try something different, you can substitute or add other fruits. Here are a few options:
- Mixed Berries: Use a combination of blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries for a mixed berry dump cake.
- Peaches: Fresh or canned peaches can offer a juicy and flavorful alternative.
- Pineapple: Opt for crushed pineapple to provide a tropical twist.
- Cherries: Try cherry pie filling if you prefer a sweeter and tangier taste.
Cake Mix Alternatives
The recipe traditionally uses yellow cake mix, but there are other options to explore:
- White Cake Mix: For a lighter flavor, white cake mix works wonderfully.
- Chocolate Cake Mix: For an indulgent, chocolate-covered strawberry effect, use chocolate cake mix.
- Gluten-Free Cake Mix: To make the dessert suitable for those with gluten intolerance, opt for a gluten-free cake mix.
Butter Substitutions
Butter is crucial for that rich, golden topping, but other fats can work in a pinch:
- Margarine: Margarine can be used if you’re out of butter.
- Coconut Oil: For a dairy-free option, coconut oil provides a different flavor profile.
- Vegan Butter: To create a vegan-friendly cake, substitute with plant-based butter.
Sweetening Options
If you want a different type of sweetness, consider these options:
- Honey: Use honey in place of granulated sugar for a warmer sweetness.
- Agave Nectar: Agave nectar works well for a lower glycemic index option.
- Maple Syrup: For a unique twist, try sweetening with maple syrup.
Additional Toppings
Aside from the typical whipped cream or ice cream, other toppings can elevate the dump cake:
- Coconut Flakes: Sprinkle coconut flakes for added texture.
- Cinnamon Sugar: A light dusting of cinnamon sugar can add warmth and spice.
- Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle caramel sauce over the cake for extra decadence.
Nuts and Seeds
If pecans are not your style, or you want to experiment, consider these variants:
- Almonds: Sliced almonds can add a different crunch.
- Walnuts: Chopped walnuts offer a rich and earthy flavor.
- Pumpkin Seeds: For a nut-free option, use roasted pumpkin seeds.
These variations and substitutions can help you customize your strawberry dump cake and make it uniquely yours. Whether you need to accommodate dietary restrictions or just want to experiment with flavors, these ideas will ensure your dessert remains delightful and exciting.
Leftovers and Storage
Keeping your strawberry dump cake fresh is key to enjoying every last bite. Here’s how I recommend storing it:
Refrigeration
- Allow the cake to cool completely: It’s important the cake is fully cooled to room temperature before you store it. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the cake soggy.
- Cover tightly: Use plastic wrap or aluminum foil to cover the entire baking dish. Alternatively, you can transfer the cake to an airtight container.
- Refrigerate: Store the covered or sealed cake in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
Freezing
- Cool the cake: Make sure the cake is completely cool before attempting to freeze it.
- Portion the cake: Cut the cake into individual servings. This makes it easier to thaw only what you need.
- Wrap and seal: Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag or airtight container.
- Freeze: Store the wrapped pieces in the freezer. For best quality, consume within 2 months.
- Thawing: If frozen, remove the desired portions from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
- Oven reheating: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cake in an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil. Heat for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave reheating: Place individual servings on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 30-60 seconds or until warmed through.
By following these storage tips, you can enjoy your strawberry dump cake for days to come, keeping it as delicious as the day it was baked.
Conclusion
Strawberry dump cake is a versatile and delightful dessert that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With endless possibilities for variations and substitutions, you can tailor this recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs. Whether you’re sticking to the classic version or experimenting with new ingredients and toppings, there’s no doubt that this cake will be a hit. Don’t forget to store any leftovers properly to keep enjoying this delicious treat for days. Happy baking!