Description
A quick, no-fuss dessert with fresh strawberries and ripe bananas “dumped” into a baking dish and topped with buttery cake mix. Sweet, fruity, and moist, it’s perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or an easy weeknight treat. Serve warm with whipped cream or ice cream for extra indulgence.
Ingredients
🛒 Ingredients (for a 9×13-inch pan):
For the Fruit Layer:
3 cups fresh or frozen strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 ripe bananas, sliced
1/4 cup granulated sugar (optional, depending on fruit sweetness)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, to enhance fruit flavor)
For the Cake Topping:
1 box (15.25 oz) yellow or vanilla cake mix
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional, for crunch)
Optional Toppings:
Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
Fresh strawberry slices for garnish
Instructions
📝 Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat Oven & Prepare Fruit
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a bowl, toss strawberries and bananas with sugar, vanilla, and lemon juice. Spread evenly in the pan.
Step 2: Add Cake Mix
Sprinkle dry cake mix evenly over the fruit. Drizzle melted butter over the top. If using, sprinkle nuts for added texture.
Step 3: Bake
Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, until the top is golden and the fruit is bubbly. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the cake topping (it should come out mostly dry).
Step 4: Serve
Let cool slightly before serving. Top with whipped cream, ice cream, or extra fresh strawberries if desired.
Notes
- From Scratch Option: Replace cake mix with a homemade yellow or vanilla cake batter for a classic touch.
- Poke Cake Variation: After baking, poke holes in the cake and drizzle with sweetened condensed milk for a creamy version.
- Make Ahead: Can be baked a day in advance; store covered at room temperature or refrigerate for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
- Category: Dessert / Dump Cake
- Method: Baked / Easy / Layered
- Cuisine: American
