Does anyone else have those weekends where all you want to do is make something sweet and delicious and just can’t seem to even start to tackle the whole pantry? Well, I totally do. Recently, I had a couple of friends coming over, and as I was cleaning up and putting out snacks, it finally dawned on me that I hadn’t planned dessert. Easy-peasy, no-stress Strawberry Dump Cake came right into play.
This is a recipe that I first came to know from my grandmother, who, for picnic trips during summer, used to make this. We used to spend ages in the field just beside her house, picking fresh strawberries. Then her hands would be so fast-washing the berries, and just putting everything in one pan. I was impressed by how simple it was, but most impressively, how something so simple could still taste so fancy.

Well, this is my little secret when I’m fruity and cozy, and I don’t want to do too much work. Gonna share with you how I make this awesome treat, kinda similar to strawberry shortcake but tons quicker!
How to Make s Strawberry Dump Cake?
Serving Information
- Servings: 10-12
 - Prep Time: 10 minutes
 - Bake Time: 45 minutes
 - Calories: Approximately 320 per serving
 

Pro Tips for the Best Strawberry Dump Cake
- Fresh or Frozen Strawberries: If it isn’t strawberry season, go ahead and use frozen. You will not have to thaw them whatsoever, so just pop them inside.
 - Extra Fruity: If you want to really bring that berry flavor out, just add in a tablespoon of strawberry jam into the pie filling as you add it to the dish.
 - Crisper Top: That is all there is to a crumbly, crispy top; sprinkle oats or chopped nuts-pecans or almonds work well-on top of the cake mix before baking.
 - Flavor Twist: Mix in with the batter a teaspoon of lemon zest, so that fresh citrus kick will meld with the strawberries.
 

Variation Suggestions
This Strawberry Dump Cake is wonderful on its own, but to make it extra special, try one of these ideas:
- Classic Pairing: Serve warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold, creamy ice cream melting into the warm cake is just heavenly.
 - Berry Trio: Garnish with fresh raspberries and blueberries for a burst of color and extra fruitiness.
 - Breakfast Treat: Leftovers? Spoon some over Greek yogurt in the morning for a sweet and tangy start to your day.
 

Conclusion
The Strawberry Dump Cake is just that kind of dessert that proves one really doesn’t have to overthink it to make something unforgettable. Super quick to whip up, full of fresh fruit goodness, and totally wrapping up any meal on a high note, this cake will surely bring in some smiles-be it when entertaining friends or just wanting that little sweet treat for yourself.
Give it a try, and I really would love to hear your feedback back! Seriously, drop your thoughts, any hacks, or questions in the comments below. If you love easy desserts as scrumptious as these, then share the recipe with your friends on Pinterest!
Strawberry Dump Cake Recipe
Course: Dump Cakes8
servings10
minutes45
minutes320
kcalIngredients
2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup strawberry jam or preserves
1 (15.25 oz) box yellow cake mix
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup water
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional: whipped cream, ice cream for serving
and/or white chocolate chips
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease
a 9×13 inch baking dish. - In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced strawberries
with granulated sugar and the strawberry jam,
gently tossing to coat. - Spread the sweetened strawberries evenly across
the bottom of the greased baking dish. - Evenly sprinkle the dry cake mix over the
strawberries; do not stir. - Drizzle the vanilla extract, melted butter, and water evenly over the top, making sure to cover as much of the dry cake mix as possible. Do not stir.
 - Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or
until the top is golden brown. - Allow to cool slightly before serving. Top with
whipped cream, a scoop of ice cream and/or
white chocolate chips if desired. 

        
					
When does the water get incorporated?
Great catch, Pamela! The water should be drizzled over the cake mix along with the melted butter and vanilla extract — it helps moisten the dry mix and ensures everything bakes up soft and tender underneath that crisp top.
I’ll make sure to clarify that step in the recipe. Really appreciate you pointing that out! Let me know if you have any other questions while baking.