Strawberry Cake

Quick and easy Strawberry Cake is the perfect dessert for any occasion. This delightful cake starts with a boxed mix, making it simple to prepare, yet it bursts with fresh strawberry flavor. Whether celebrating a birthday, hosting a summer picnic, or just craving something sweet, this cake is sure to impress. The combination of fluffy layers and creamy frosting makes it a standout treat that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation – This recipe uses a boxed cake mix, allowing you to whip up a delicious dessert in no time.
• Fresh Flavor – With the addition of real strawberries and Jell-O, every bite is packed with fruity goodness.
• Versatile Occasions – Perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or just a sweet treat at home.
• Customizable Frosting – You can easily adjust the sweetness and flavor of the frosting according to your preference.
• Feeding a Crowd – This recipe makes 12 servings, making it ideal for gatherings or family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delightful Strawberry Cake, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures that your baking experience is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Food processor (optional)
• Two 9-inch round cake pans
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer – Saves time and effort when blending ingredients for a light and fluffy batter.
• Mixing bowls – Essential for combining dry and wet ingredients separately before mixing them together.
• Wire rack – Allows cakes to cool evenly without trapping moisture, ensuring a perfect texture.

Ingredients

To make this delightful Strawberry Cake, gather the following ingredients:

• 15.25 ounces white cake mix
• .3 ounces sugar-free strawberry jello (1 package)
• 4 egg whites
• ⅓ cup canola oil
• 1 cup frozen unsweetened strawberries (thawed)
• ½ cup water
• ⅓ cup butter (softened)
• 2 ⅓ cup powdered sugar

How to Make Strawberry Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease and flour two 9-inch round pans and set them aside.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

In a large bowl, combine the cake mix and strawberry Jell-O mix. Mix thoroughly until combined. Then add in the egg whites and canola oil. Beat the mixture until well blended.

Step 3: Prepare Strawberries

In a small bowl or food processor, mash the thawed strawberries. Set aside 3 tablespoons for icing. Add the remaining berries along with water to the batter mixture and stir well. Pour the batter into prepared pans.

Step 4: Bake Your Cakes

Bake in the preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow cakes to cool in pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Make Frosting

To prepare the frosting, combine softened butter with the reserved strawberries in a small bowl. Gradually beat in powdered sugar until you achieve a light and fluffy consistency.

Step 6: Assemble Your Cake

Place one cooled round cake on your serving platter. Spread half of the icing on top of this layer. Carefully place the second round cake on top of the frosted layer. Finish by frosting the outside of both layers with any remaining icing.

This easy-to-follow recipe will give you an irresistible Strawberry Cake that’s perfect for any gathering! Enjoy!

How to Serve Strawberry Cake

Serving Strawberry Cake can be a delightful experience, enhancing its fresh flavor and visual appeal. Here are some creative ways to present this delicious dessert.

Classic Slice

• Serve a generous slice of Strawberry Cake on a plate, garnished with fresh strawberries for a classic presentation.

Ice Cream Pairing

• Add a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream on the side for a creamy contrast that complements the fruity flavors.

Whipped Cream Topping

• Top each slice with freshly whipped cream for an airy texture and extra sweetness that pairs beautifully with the cake.

Chocolate Drizzle

• Drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the cake for an indulgent touch that balances the sweetness of the strawberries.

Fruit Salad Side

• Serve with a side of mixed fruit salad to add freshness and color, enhancing the overall fruity experience.

Coffee or Tea

• Pair your Strawberry Cake with a warm cup of coffee or tea, creating a perfect afternoon treat or dessert option.

How to Perfect Strawberry Cake

To ensure your Strawberry Cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Always opt for fresh strawberries when possible, as they provide the best flavor and texture in your cake.

• Don’t overmix: Mix your batter just until combined; overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of a light and fluffy one.

• Check oven temperature: Make sure your oven is properly preheated. An oven thermometer can help you maintain the right temperature for even baking.

• Cool completely: Allow your cakes to cool completely before icing. This prevents melting and ensures the frosting stays intact.

• Experiment with flavors: Consider adding lemon zest or almond extract to enhance the flavor of your Strawberry Cake if you want something unique.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Cake

Strawberry Cake pairs well with various sides that complement its sweet and fruity profile. Here are some excellent options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream
   A cool, creamy addition that balances out the sweetness of the cake.

2. Fresh Berries Salad
   A mix of blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries adds brightness and freshness to your dessert table.

3. Chocolate Mousse
   Rich and decadent, chocolate mousse provides a luxurious contrast to the lightness of the cake.

4. Lemon Sorbet
   A tangy sorbet refreshes the palate after indulging in sweet cake, offering a nice balance.

5. Cheese Platter
   A selection of cheeses can create an interesting savory contrast alongside your sweet dessert.

6. Chai Tea
   The warm spices in chai tea enhance the strawberry flavor while providing comfort during dessert time.

7. Peach Compote
   A warm peach compote drizzled over each slice adds an extra layer of flavor and moisture to every bite.

8. Pecan Pie Bars
   For those who enjoy rich desserts, pecan pie bars offer another delightful option alongside your Strawberry Cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a delicious Strawberry Cake can be easy, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Using expired ingredients: Always check the expiration dates on your cake mix and Jell-O. Using old ingredients can affect the taste and texture of your cake.
• Not measuring accurately: Baking is a science, so measuring ingredients correctly is crucial. Use proper measuring cups for dry and liquid ingredients to ensure accuracy.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until combined for a light and fluffy Strawberry Cake.
• Skipping the cooling step: Allowing the cake to cool completely in the pans helps it set properly. Skipping this can result in a cake that crumbles or breaks apart.
• Not letting the frosting set: After frosting, let your cake sit for a bit before serving. This allows the frosting to firm up and makes for easier slicing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Strawberry Cake in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Strawberry Cake

• Wrap slices or whole cakes tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing quality.

Reheating Strawberry Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 15-20 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm each slice for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying Strawberry Cake.

How do I make my Strawberry Cake more flavorful?

To enhance flavor, consider adding vanilla extract or using fresh strawberries instead of frozen ones.

Can I use other fruits in this recipe?

Yes! You can easily substitute other berries like blueberries or raspberries for a unique twist on your Strawberry Cake.

What is the best way to serve Strawberry Cake?

Strawberry Cake pairs wonderfully with whipped cream or ice cream on the side for an extra treat!

How long does it take to bake Strawberry Cake?

The baking time is approximately 20-25 minutes at 350°F (175°C), but keep an eye on it as ovens may vary.

Final Thoughts

This easy-to-make Strawberry Cake is not only delightful but also versatile! With its refreshing strawberry flavor, it’s perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with different fruits or add-ins to make it your own. Enjoy creating this delicious dessert that will surely impress your friends and family!