This Crockpot Strawberry Dump Cake Recipe is an easy, fruity dessert made with just three ingredients: strawberry cake mix, strawberry pie filling, and melted butter. With approximately 5 minutes of preparation, you can create a warm strawberry dessert without turning on the oven.
If you love simple desserts that require very little hands-on preparation, this Strawberry Dump Cake is a delicious option for family dinners, potlucks, and weekend gatherings.
The combination of sweet strawberry filling and a crunchy buttery topping creates a dessert with a soft fruit layer beneath golden cake crumbles.
This recipe is similar to a strawberry cobbler, but it uses boxed cake mix for easier preparation. If you enjoy easy fruit desserts, our Caramel Apple Nacho Bar is another fun treat for sharing.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love Crockpot Strawberry Dump Cake
Crockpot Strawberry Dump Cake is a convenient dessert when you want something sweet without spending much time in the kitchen.
- Only three main ingredients: Strawberry pie filling, cake mix, and butter.
- Quick preparation: Approximately 5 minutes of hands-on work.
- No oven required: The dessert cooks entirely in a slow cooker.
- Easy to serve: Spoon warm portions directly into dessert bowls.
- Flexible flavors: Strawberry cake mix can be replaced with vanilla cake mix.
- Perfect for gatherings: The recipe works well for family meals, parties, and potlucks.
The preparation requires very little effort. Simply combine the ingredients in the recommended order and let the slow cooker do the work.
Another convenient choice for a dessert table is our Dirt Pudding, which offers a different creamy, chocolate-based treat.
Crockpot Strawberry Dump Cake Ingredients
This Crockpot Strawberry Dump Cake Recipe uses three ingredients that are easy to find at most grocery stores.
Strawberry Cake Mix
Use one 13.25-ounce box of dry strawberry cake mix. The original recipe uses Betty Crocker Strawberry Cake Mix, but an equivalent-sized strawberry cake mix can work.
Vanilla cake mix is an acceptable substitute if you prefer a milder flavor.
Strawberry Pie Filling
Use 42 ounces of strawberry pie filling, equivalent to two 21-ounce cans.
The pie filling forms the soft, fruity bottom layer of the dessert. Spread it evenly across the slow cooker before adding the cake mixture.
Butter
Use 1/2 cup (8 tablespoons or 113 grams) of melted butter.
The butter is mixed with the dry cake mix to create a crumbly topping that cooks over the strawberry filling.
Optional Toppings
Vanilla ice cream and whipped cream are delicious additions when serving the finished dessert.
How to Make Strawberry Dump Cake in a Crockpot
Making this dessert is straightforward. The original method uses a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker and requires no complicated baking techniques.
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Spray the inside of your slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray.
Coating the insert helps reduce sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Step 2: Add the Strawberry Pie Filling
Empty both cans of strawberry pie filling into the bottom of the slow cooker.
Use a spoon or spatula to spread the filling into an even layer.
Step 3: Mix the Cake Mix and Butter
Place the dry strawberry cake mix in a medium mixing bowl.
Pour the melted butter over the cake mix and stir until the mixture becomes crumbly.
Break up any large pieces with a spoon so the topping has a relatively even texture.
Step 4: Add the Cake Crumble
Sprinkle the cake-and-butter crumble mixture over the strawberry filling.
Spread the topping evenly across the surface without mixing it into the fruit layer.
Step 5: Cook the Dump Cake
Cover the slow cooker with its lid.
Cook on High for approximately 2 hours or Low for approximately 4 hours, following the original recipe directions.
Cooking times may vary by slow cooker. The topping should be cooked through, with no dry or raw cake mix remaining.
Step 6: Serve Warm
Spoon the warm strawberry dump cake into individual dessert bowls.
Top with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, if desired.
Crockpot Strawberry Dump Cake Recipe Success Tips
Use the Recommended Slow Cooker Size
A 5- to 6-quart slow cooker works well for this recipe.
Using a significantly smaller or larger slow cooker may change the depth of the dessert and its cooking time.
Do Not Mix the Layers Together
Spread the strawberry pie filling across the bottom of the slow cooker, then distribute the cake mixture over the top.
Keeping the layers separate helps create the characteristic fruit-and-cake texture.
Mix the Butter Thoroughly with the Cake Mix
The original recipe mixes melted butter directly into the dry cake mix before adding it to the slow cooker.
Stir until the cake mixture forms moist crumbs and break apart large clumps.
Avoid Repeatedly Opening the Lid
Opening the slow cooker frequently releases heat and can extend the cooking time.
Check the dessert near the end of the recommended cooking period rather than constantly lifting the lid.
Check That the Topping Is Fully Cooked
The strawberry filling will remain soft, but the cake topping should no longer contain pockets of uncooked cake mix.
If necessary, continue cooking in short intervals until the topping is properly cooked.
Serve While Warm
This dessert is particularly enjoyable while warm because the strawberry filling remains soft and the cake topping has a tender texture.
A scoop of vanilla ice cream provides a delicious temperature contrast.
How to Serve Crock Pot Strawberry Dump Cake
Crockpot Strawberry Dump Cake can be served directly from the slow cooker once it has finished cooking.
With Vanilla Ice Cream
Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream to each serving of warm strawberry cake.
The ice cream softens as it touches the warm fruit filling, creating a creamy sauce.
With Whipped Cream
A generous spoonful of whipped cream makes a light, creamy topping for the strawberry dessert.
With Fresh Strawberries
Add a few freshly sliced strawberries for extra fruit flavor and color.
For Parties and Potlucks
Serve the dessert in small bowls with ice cream or whipped cream available on the side.
For another party-friendly fruit dessert, try our Caramel Apple Nacho Bar.
Is Dump Cake Supposed to Be Gooey?
Yes. Strawberry dump cake is supposed to have a soft, gooey fruit layer beneath the cake topping.
The finished dessert is not meant to have the same firm texture as a traditional layer cake.
The strawberry pie filling stays soft and spoonable, while the cake mixture forms a buttery topping.
However, the topping should still be cooked through. Gooey strawberry filling is normal, but raw cake mix is not.
Strawberry Dump Cake Variations
Vanilla Strawberry Dump Cake
Replace the strawberry cake mix with an equivalent-sized box of vanilla cake mix.
This creates a milder cake topping while keeping the same strawberry pie filling.
Strawberry Lemonade Dump Cake
Substitute lemon cake mix for strawberry cake mix to create a bright strawberry-and-lemon flavor combination.
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake
For a creamy variation, add small portions of a sweetened cream cheese filling between the strawberry layer and cake topping.
This is a variation rather than part of the original three-ingredient recipe. Follow an appropriate strawberry cheesecake dump cake recipe for exact quantities and cooking adjustments.
Strawberry Angel Food Dump Cake
Angel food cake mix can be used in a different strawberry dump cake variation, but it behaves differently from standard cake mix.
Do not use it as a direct one-for-one replacement with the same butter preparation unless following a recipe developed for angel food cake mix.
Oven-Baked Strawberry Dump Cake
If you prefer baking in the oven, a 9×13-inch baking dish can be used for an oven-adapted strawberry dump cake.
Follow a tested oven version for its specific temperature and baking time rather than using the slow cooker timings.
How to Store and Reheat Strawberry Dump Cake
Refrigerating Leftovers
Transfer leftover strawberry dump cake to an airtight container and refrigerate promptly.
For best quality, enjoy the refrigerated dessert within approximately 3 to 4 days.
Reheating in the Microwave
Place a portion in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in short intervals until warm.
Let it stand briefly before eating, as fruit fillings can become very hot.
Reheating in the Oven
Transfer the desired portion to an oven-safe dish and warm gently until heated through.
Can You Freeze Strawberry Dump Cake?
You can freeze portions of the cooked dessert in airtight freezer-safe containers, although the fruit and topping textures may change after thawing.
Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
For general food handling and storage recommendations, consult the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s food safety resources.
Crockpot Strawberry Dump Cake Recipe
This easy Crockpot Strawberry Dump Cake Recipe uses three ingredients and approximately five minutes of active preparation.
Doubling Recipe Tip
If doubling or tripling the recipe, multiply each ingredient quantity accordingly.
Check that the larger quantity fits safely in the slow cooker. A bigger batch may require adjustments to cooking time, and you should not assume the original timing will remain the same.
Ingredients
- 1 box (13.25 oz) strawberry cake mix, such as Betty Crocker, or vanilla cake mix
- 42 oz strawberry pie filling, two 21-oz cans
- 1/2 cup melted butter, 8 tablespoons or 113 grams
Instructions
- Spray the inside of a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray.
- Empty both cans of strawberry pie filling into the bottom of the slow cooker and spread evenly.
- Place the dry strawberry cake mix in a medium mixing bowl.
- Add the melted butter and stir until the mixture becomes crumbly. Break apart any large lumps.
- Distribute the cake-and-butter crumble evenly over the strawberry filling.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid.
- Cook on High for approximately 2 hours or Low for approximately 4 hours, until the topping is cooked through.
- Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, if desired.
Recipe Notes
- Vanilla cake mix can replace strawberry cake mix.
- Use two 21-ounce cans of strawberry pie filling for the original quantity.
- Mix the melted butter with the dry cake mix before adding the topping.
- A 5- to 6-quart slow cooker is recommended.
- Serve the finished dessert warm for the best texture.
More Dump Cakes and Crockpot Desserts
If you enjoy simple fruity desserts, there are many other sweet recipes worth exploring.
Pineapple Pound Cake
For another fruity dessert, try our Pineapple Pound Cake Recipe. It offers a different way to enjoy a sweet treat with tropical fruit flavor.
Slow Cooker Hot Fudge Cake
Chocolate lovers can explore a rich Slow Cooker Hot Fudge Cake for another warm dessert idea.
Cheesecake Filled Strawberries
For individual party treats, these Cheesecake Filled Strawberries combine strawberry flavor with a creamy cheesecake-style filling.
More Easy Dump Cakes
If you enjoy desserts that use pantry staples, explore more dump cake recipes for simple baking inspiration.
A Sweet Dessert for Busy Evenings
A fruit-based dessert like Crockpot Strawberry Dump Cake fits perfectly into a busy family evening when you want something simple.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Three Ingredients in Crockpot Strawberry Dump Cake?
The recipe uses strawberry cake mix, strawberry pie filling, and melted butter. Vanilla cake mix can substitute for strawberry cake mix.
How Long Does Strawberry Dump Cake Take in a Crockpot?
The original recipe recommends cooking for approximately 2 hours on High or 4 hours on Low. Cooking time may vary by appliance.
Is Strawberry Dump Cake Supposed to Be Gooey?
Yes. The fruit filling should remain soft and spoonable, while the cake topping should be fully cooked.
Can I Use Vanilla Cake Mix Instead of Strawberry?
Yes. Vanilla cake mix is an approved substitution in the original recipe and creates a milder flavor.
Do I Need to Stir Strawberry Dump Cake While Cooking?
No. Once the fruit filling and cake topping are arranged in the slow cooker, the original method calls for covering and cooking without stirring the layers together.
Can I Use Fresh Strawberries Instead of Pie Filling?
Fresh strawberries do not behave exactly like canned pie filling. They contain different amounts of liquid and sweetness, so a tested fresh-strawberry adaptation is preferable.
Can I Make Strawberry Dump Cake Ahead of Time?
Yes. Prepare and cook the dessert ahead, refrigerate it promptly, and reheat individual portions before serving.
What Is the Best Topping for Strawberry Dump Cake?
Vanilla ice cream and whipped cream are classic choices. Fresh strawberry slices can also add color and flavor.
