Strawberry-Vanilla Dump Cake is a delightful and easy-to-make dessert that combines the sweetness of strawberries with the rich flavor of vanilla. This dump cake is perfect for any occasion, requiring minimal effort while delivering maximum taste. Just as its name suggests, you simply “dump” the ingredients into a baking dish, and the oven does the rest. Let’s dive into this simple yet scrumptious recipe!
Ingredients
To make Strawberry-Vanilla Dump Cake, you will need the following ingredients:
- Two 21-ounce cans strawberry pie filling
- One 16-ounce package white cake mix
- ½ cup salted butter, melted
- ½ cup sliced strawberries, to garnish (optional)
- Fresh whipped cream, to garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease the Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Assemble the Dump Cake
- Add the Pie Filling: Dump the two cans of strawberry pie filling into the prepared baking dish. Spread the filling evenly across the bottom of the dish.
- Add the Cake Mix: Evenly sprinkle the dry white cake mix over the strawberry pie filling. Do not mix or stir.
- Drizzle the Butter: Pour the melted butter evenly over the top of the cake mix. Make sure to cover as much of the surface as possible to create a golden, crispy topping.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Cool: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Garnish with Fresh Strawberries: For an extra touch of freshness and color, garnish the cake with sliced strawberries.
- Add Whipped Cream: Serve each slice with a dollop of fresh whipped cream for added richness and a delightful contrast in texture.
Cooking Notes
- Variations: Feel free to experiment with different pie fillings such as cherry, blueberry, or apple for a different flavor profile.
- Butter Distribution: To ensure an even crust, pour the melted butter carefully over the dry cake mix. You can use a spoon to spread it evenly if necessary.
- Serve Warm: This cake is best served warm. If you have leftovers, reheat individual portions in the microwave for a few seconds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of canned pie filling? While canned pie filling is convenient and provides the right consistency, you can use fresh strawberries. Simply cook them down with sugar to create a thick, jam-like consistency before using.
Do I need to mix the cake mix and pie filling together? No, the beauty of a dump cake is that you don’t need to mix the ingredients. The layers bake together perfectly, creating a delicious dessert with minimal effort.
Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted butter? Yes, you can use unsalted butter. If you do, consider adding a pinch of salt to the cake mix to balance the sweetness.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave before serving.
Can I make this cake in advance? Yes, you can prepare the dump cake a day ahead. Store it covered in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes before serving.
Keto/Low Carb Version
For those following a keto or low-carb diet, you can make adjustments to the recipe:
- Use a low-carb cake mix or make a homemade version using almond flour and a low-carb sweetener.
- Replace the strawberry pie filling with a homemade version using fresh strawberries and a keto-friendly sweetener.
Strawberry-Vanilla Dump Cake is a quick and easy dessert that delivers a satisfying blend of flavors and textures. With minimal preparation and ingredients, it’s an excellent choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. Whether enjoyed on its own or garnished with fresh strawberries and whipped cream, this cake is sure to become a family favorite.
Try this Strawberry-Vanilla Dump Cake recipe today and discover just how easy and delicious it can be! If you enjoyed this recipe, please leave a comment below and share it with your friends. Don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more easy and tasty recipes. Happy baking!
