Name: Strawberry Dump Cake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 can strawberry pie filling (21 oz.); 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz.); 3/4 cup cold butter (thinly sliced into square pats); cooking spray; vanilla ice cream (to serve (optional))

Introduction to Strawberry Dump Cake

If you're searching for a dessert that combines simplicity with deliciousness, look no further than strawberry dump cake. This easy-to-make treat is perfect for young professionals who want to whip up something delightful without spending hours in the kitchen. With minimal prep, you'll have a crowd-pleasing dessert ready in no time!

Why Choose Strawberry Dump Cake?

The beauty of a strawberry dump cake lies in its versatility and flavor. Bursting with the natural sweetness of strawberries, it captures the essence of summer all year round. Just imagine serving this warm, gooey dessert topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream after a long week—sounds fantastic, right?

Another reason to love this cake is how effortlessly it comes together. All you need are a few pantry staples like cake mix, strawberry pie filling, and butter. This makes it an ideal choice for unexpected gatherings or a cozy night in. Plus, dump cakes are notoriously forgiving; even if you're not an experienced baker, you'll still impress your friends and family.

Curious to learn more about other variations? Check out resources on selecting the best fruits for baking or dive into the history of dump cakes on culinary blogs—you'll find loads of tips to elevate your baking game!

Ingredients for Strawberry Dump Cake

Making a delicious strawberry dump cake is easier than you might think! With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a dessert that will impress your friends and family. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful treat:

Cooking spray – This will keep your cake from sticking to the pan.
1 (21 oz.) can strawberry pie filling – The star of the show! This sweetness provides all the strawberry goodness.
1 (15.25 oz.) box yellow cake mix – A classic choice that gives this dessert its rich texture.
¾ cup (1 ½ sticks) cold butter – Thinly sliced into square pats, this ingredient adds a wonderful buttery flavor and helps form that crisp topping as it melts.
Vanilla ice cream, to serve (optional) – A scoop on top takes your strawberry dump cake to the next level!

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s move on to the easy and fun part—baking! For more tips and tricks, check out this guide on baking basics.

Preparing Strawberry Dump Cake

If you're looking for a delicious dessert that's both easy to make and incredibly satisfying, you've come to the right place. Let’s dive into how to prepare a delightful strawberry dump cake. This dessert requires minimal effort and maximizes flavor—perfect for young professionals juggling busy schedules.

Prepare Your Baking Pan

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). It’s important to get the oven nice and warm before you pop your cake in to ensure even cooking. While that's happening, grab a 9-inch x 13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray or butter. This step is crucial to prevent sticking and ensure your cake comes out easily—nobody wants a crumbly mess when it could be a luscious treat!

Layer the Strawberry Pie Filling

Next up, you’ll want to dump that strawberry pie filling into your prepared pan. It’s such a breeze! Use a spatula to spread the filling evenly across the bottom of the dish. This layer will act as the sweet and fruity basis for your cake, providing that signature burst of strawberry flavor. For an extra twist, consider tossing in some fresh strawberries if they’re in season—talk about elevating your dessert!

Add the Cake Mix

Time to sprinkle magic! Grab a 15.25 oz box of yellow cake mix and scatter it evenly over the strawberry filling. It may look like a lot, but it’s key to creating that delightful cake texture on top; just ensure the pie filling is completely covered. This layer is where many find their sweet spot in the strawberry dump cake experience, combining the tartness of berries with the sweetness of cake.

Top with Butter Pat Slices

The final touch before the oven is butter, and this is where you’ll add some serious flavor. Slice ¾ cup of cold butter into thin square pats and place them evenly atop the cake mix. As it bake, it will melt down into the mix, creating a sumptuous and buttery crust. Nobody can resist that!

Bake the Cake

Pop your baking dish into the preheated oven and let it bake for 40 to 45 minutes. You want the top to turn a lovely golden brown, creating an inviting contrast with the vibrant strawberry filling. The aroma wafting through your kitchen during this time will have everyone asking when dessert will be ready.

Once baked, let it cool for a bit before serving. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on top takes this dish to the next level! So, who’s ready to indulge in a slice of easy, mouthwatering strawberry dump cake? 🍓

For more ideas on easy desserts, check out this article on quick baking recipes.

Variations on Strawberry Dump Cake

Creative Gluten-Free Strawberry Dump Cake

For those who prefer a gluten-free option, making a strawberry dump cake is a breeze! Simply swap out the traditional yellow cake mix for a gluten-free version available at most grocery stores. You can also make your own blend using almond flour and coconut flour. Just ensure that your pie filling is also free from any gluten-containing additives. With these simple adjustments, you can enjoy the same delightful taste without the gluten!

Delightful Strawberry Dump Cake with Fresh Berries

Why not elevate your strawberry dump cake by using fresh strawberries? To do this, macerate about 2 cups of sliced strawberries with a tablespoon of sugar. Let them sit for 30 minutes to release their juices. Add this fresh berry mixture to the baking dish before spreading the cake mix. The fruit's freshness brings a vibrant flavor and chunky texture, creating a delicious twist that has everyone coming back for seconds!

Explore more fruity variations or tips on how to enhance your desserts through The Kitchn or Food Network.

Baking Notes for Strawberry Dump Cake

When it comes to making a delicious strawberry dump cake, a few baking notes can elevate your experience. First, ensuring the pie filling is evenly spread is key to achieving the perfect texture throughout. Don't rush through this step—take a moment to smooth it out!

Using cold butter, sliced thin, helps achieve that iconic crumbly topping. If you want to add a twist, consider mixing in some fresh strawberries for an added burst of flavor.

Lastly, serving your cake warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, can transform this dish into a delightful dessert experience. Want to learn more about baking techniques? Check out this resource on baking fundamentals.

Serving Suggestions for Strawberry Dump Cake

When it comes to serving your delightful strawberry dump cake, the possibilities are as sweet as the dessert itself. Here are a few tasty suggestions to elevate your treat:

A La Mode Delight: Serve warm slices topped with creamy vanilla ice cream. The melt-in-your-mouth experience can’t be beaten!
Toggle Toppings: Explore other toppings like whipped cream or fresh strawberries for a burst of freshness.
Pair With Beverages: Complement your cake with refreshing beverages like iced herbal tea or a sparkling fruit soda for a delightful summer gathering.
Make It a Breakfast Treat: Leftovers? Enjoy them as a breakfast delight with a cup of coffee; it’s a perfect morning pick-me-up!

These simple ideas can make your strawberry dump cake even more enjoyable. Let your creativity shine!

Tips for Making the Perfect Strawberry Dump Cake

Creating the perfect strawberry dump cake is easier than you might think! Here are some friendly tips to elevate your dessert game:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh strawberries can enhance the flavor even further. Consider adding some sliced strawberries alongside the pie filling for a burst of freshness.
Don’t Skimp on Toppings: Ensure that the cake mix is evenly spread over the filling. This creates that delightful crumbly topping that everyone loves.
Butter Matters: Using cold butter is key. Thin pats help achieve that golden, crisp topping as it bakes.
Experiment with Flavors: Why not try other cake mixes or fruit fillings? Peach or raspberry can be delicious alternatives.

With these tips, your strawberry dump cake will be the highlight of any gathering. Don't forget to serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate treat! For more dessert inspiration, check out AllRecipes and Food Network.

Time details for Strawberry Dump Cake

Preparation time

Get started on your delicious strawberry dump cake by allowing 10 minutes for preparation. This time flies by, especially when you're excited to dive into a sweet treat!

Baking time

Pop your cake in the oven and let it bake for about 40-45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and bubbling, creating that irresistible aroma in your kitchen.

Total time

From start to finish, you’re looking at a total of approximately 55-60 minutes. In less than an hour, you'll have a delightful dessert to impress your friends, family, or just yourself! For more baking tips, consider checking out this guide on baking times.

Nutritional information for Strawberry Dump Cake

Calories

A serving of strawberry dump cake contains approximately 300 calories, making it a decadent yet manageable dessert choice for your next gathering. Keep this in mind as you indulge—everything in moderation!

Sugar Content

You can expect around 25 grams of sugar per serving. Most of this sweetness comes from the strawberry pie filling and cake mix, so you might want to pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to balance that sweetness!

Fat Content

With roughly 14 grams of fat in each serving, thanks mainly to the butter in the recipe, this dessert is rich and creamy. It’s perfect for special occasions, but be mindful of your serving sizes if you're watching fat intake!

For more on maintaining a balanced diet while enjoying treats, check out resources like the Mayo Clinic which offers guidance on nutritious eating. Whether you enjoy your strawberry dump cake plain or dressed up with ice cream, it's a delightful way to celebrate life's sweet moments!

FAQs about Strawberry Dump Cake

Can I use a different fruit filling?

Absolutely! While this strawberry dump cake shines with strawberry pie filling, feel free to get creative. You can substitute it with other fruit fillings, like blueberry, cherry, or even peach, depending on your taste preferences. Each fruit will provide its unique spin, so don’t hesitate to experiment!

How do I store leftover dump cake?

If you find yourself with remnants of this delicious treat, you can easily store the strawberry dump cake in an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. Just be sure to reheat individual portions in the microwave for a few seconds before enjoying; you'll love the warm, gooey goodness!

Is strawberry dump cake suitable for freezing?

Yes, you can freeze your strawberry dump cake! To do this, cool it completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to indulge again, just let it thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat. You'll have a delightful dessert ready to go!

For more tips on storing baked goods, check out this article from The Spruce Eats.

Conclusion on Strawberry Dump Cake

In conclusion, making a strawberry dump cake is a delightful and fuss-free way to enjoy dessert. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a sweet treat that pleases a crowd. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and you've got a perfect ending to any meal. Happy baking!

For more delicious desserts, consider exploring related recipes like blueberry cobbler or peach crisp.