Quick Strawberry Dump Cake Recipe for Perfect Summer Dessert

I love making desserts like this strawberry dump cake — it’s one of the easiest treats to throw together and turns out perfectly every time. Loaded with sweet strawberry pie filling, topped with a buttery cake crumble, and finished with dollops of cream cheese, it’s a no-fuss dessert ideal for spring and summer gatherings or any time you want something fruity and comforting.

Golden cake crumble on strawberry pie filling on a white plate.

This strawberry dump cake is a go-to when I need a quick, delicious dessert. With just a few ingredients and under 10 minutes of prep, you’ll have a sweet, fruity dessert perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or parties.

If you enjoy simple desserts, try other favorites like strawberry pretzel salad, chocolate lava cake, or an old-fashioned butter cake — all crowd-pleasers that pair well with this recipe.

Ingredients You Will Need

Ingredients needed to make strawberry dump cake on a white marble table.
  • Strawberry pie filling – The sweet, syrupy base for this dessert.
  • Yellow (or white) cake mix – Creates the buttery, crumbly topping.
  • Unsalted butter – Melted and mixed with the cake mix to form the crumble.
  • Cream cheese – Softened and whipped into dollops for a creamy layer.
  • Whipped topping or vanilla ice cream – Optional for serving.

Variations

  • Chocolate-strawberry version: Use a strawberry or chocolate cake mix for a different flavor.
  • Add nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or almonds on top for extra crunch.
  • Swap the filling: Try blueberry, cherry, apple, or mixed berry pie filling instead of strawberry.

How to Make Strawberry Dump Cake with Cream Cheese

STEP 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray.

STEP 2: Spread both cans of strawberry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the prepared pan.

Strawberry pie filling poured into cake pan.

STEP 3: In a medium bowl, mix the cake mix with the melted butter using a fork until the mixture becomes crumbly. Set aside.

STEP 4: In a small bowl, whip the softened cream cheese until smooth. Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese over the strawberry filling and gently swirl with a knife so it blends slightly.

Strawberry pie filling, cream cheese combined in a cake pan.

STEP 5: Evenly sprinkle the cake mix-and-butter crumble over the top of the strawberry and cream cheese layer.

Uncooked cake mix mixed with butter dolloped on top a strawberry pie filling.

STEP 6: Bake for 50 minutes to 1 hour, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.

STEP 7: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Serve warm, topped with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Golden and bubbly dump cake in a baking pan.

Tips

  • Use softened cream cheese: It mixes and spreads more easily, creating pretty swirls.
  • Keep the layers distinct: Don’t overmix—the separate layers give the dump cake its attractive look and texture.
  • Top it up: Serve with whipped topping or vanilla ice cream for extra richness.
Strawberry dump cake on a white plate with strawberry slices scattered around the plate.

FAQs

How do I store leftover strawberry dump cake?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 20–30 seconds if you prefer them warm.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. Bake the dump cake ahead and refrigerate. You can serve it cold or gently reheat before serving.

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of pie filling?

Pie filling works best because it creates the sweet, syrupy layer. If using fresh strawberries, cook them down with sugar until they reach a similar consistency.

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Strawberry Dump Cake

This easy strawberry dump cake uses a few simple ingredients and bakes into a sweet, gooey dessert perfect for any occasion.
Golden cake crumble on strawberry pie filling on a white plate.

Equipment

  • 9×13 baking pan

Ingredients

  • 2 cans strawberry pie filling, 21 ounces each
  • 1 box yellow cake mix, 15.25 ounces
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F and spray a 9×13-inch pan with nonstick spray.
  • Spread the strawberry pie filling evenly in the prepared pan.
  • Mix the cake mix with the melted butter until crumbly; set aside.
  • Whip the softened cream cheese until smooth. Drop dollops over the filling and gently swirl.
  • Sprinkle the cake mix crumble evenly over the top.
  • Bake 50 minutes to 1 hour, until golden and bubbly.
  • Let cool slightly, then serve warm with whipped topping or vanilla ice cream.

Notes

  • Use softened cream cheese: It’s easier to drop and swirl for a neat appearance.
  • Keep layers separate: Avoid stirring so the dessert bakes with distinct fruit, cream cheese, and crumble layers.
  • Add toppings: Serve with whipped topping or ice cream for extra indulgence.

Nutrition

Calories: 439kcal
Carbohydrates: 55 g
Protein: 4 g
Fat: 23 g
Saturated Fat: 14 g
Sodium: 561 mg

Nutrition information is approximate.

Additional Info

Course: Cakes, Dessert
Cuisine: American