Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon
strawberry rhubarb dump cake recipe

Strawberry Rhubarb Dump Cake

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Imagine a warm, golden-brown cake bubbling with sweet strawberries and tart rhubarb—each bite layered with fluffy cake mix and caramelized fruit. This strawberry rhubarb dump cake is the ultimate summer dessert, blending simplicity with bold flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, it requires minimal prep and delivers maximum comfort.

The magic lies in its “dump” method: layer fruit and cake mix in a baking dish, drizzle melted butter, and bake until golden. The result? A tender cake with a juicy, slightly crisp fruit filling that pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Why do I love this recipe? It’s forgiving! Even if your rhubarb isn’t perfectly chopped or your strawberries vary in size, the cake adapts. I’ve made it with store-bought cake mix, homemade compote, and even added a splash of cinnamon or almond extract for extra depth.

Nutritionally, it’s a treat but balanced with vitamin-rich fruits. For lighter versions, use sugar-free cake mix or substitute half the butter with applesauce.

Whether you’re a novice baker or a seasoned pro, this dump cake will become your go-to. It’s been a staple at my family reunions for years, and I’m confident it’ll earn a spot in your recipe collection too.

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients

  • For the Fruit Layer:

    • 4 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
    • 2 cups rhubarb, diced (peel if necessary)
    • ¾ cup granulated sugar
    • 1 tsp cinnamon
    • ½ tsp nutmeg
  • For the Cake Layer:

    • 1 box (18.25 oz) vanilla or yellow cake mix
    • ½ cup all-purpose flour (optional, for thicker cake)
  • For the Butter Topping:

    • ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
    • ¼ cup brown sugar
    • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat & Prep

    • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Prepare the Fruit

    • In a bowl, toss strawberries, rhubarb, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Let sit 10 minutes to release juices.
  3. Layer the Fruit

    • Spread the fruit mixture evenly in the baking dish.
  4. Add the Cake Layer

    • Sprinkle dry cake mix (and flour, if using) over the fruit in ½-inch layers. Don’t skip this—it creates a lovely texture!
  5. Drizzle the Butter

    • In a small bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, and vanilla. Drizzle generously over the cake layer.
  6. Bake

    • Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the cake is golden and the fruit bubbles.
  7. Serve Warm

    • Let cool 10 minutes. Serve with ice cream or whipped cream.

Notes

  • Gluten-Free? Use a gluten-free cake mix and serve with a dairy-free ice cream.
  • Less Sweet? Reduce sugar to ½ cup and add a pinch of salt.
  • Boost Flavor: Add 1 tbsp lemon zest or a splash of bourbon to the butter mixture.
  • Make Ahead: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for best texture.
  • Author: KitchenFlavors
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian