Strawberry Cake

Quick and easy Strawberry Cake is the perfect dessert for any occasion, from birthday parties to family gatherings. This delightful cake starts with a boxed mix, making it simple to prepare while still allowing you to dress it up with fresh strawberry flavor. With its moist texture and vibrant color, this Strawberry Cake is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: Using a boxed cake mix saves time without compromising on taste.
• Bursting with Flavor: The addition of real strawberries elevates the cake, providing a fresh and fruity experience.
• Versatile Occasions: Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just because you want something sweet.
• Delicious Frosting: A light and fluffy strawberry frosting complements the cake beautifully.
• Serves Many: With 12 servings, it’s great for sharing with family and friends.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Strawberry Cake, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups
• Rubber spatula
• Two 9-inch round cake pans
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when blending the batter and frosting until smooth.
• Wire rack: Allows cakes to cool evenly, preventing sogginess in the bottom layer.

Ingredients

For the Cake

• 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

For the Frosting

• ⅓ cup butter (softened)
• 2 ⅓ cup powdered sugar

How to Make Strawberry Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by greasing and flouring two 9-inch round pans. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

In a large bowl, combine the white cake mix and sugar-free strawberry Jell-O mix until well blended.
1. Add egg whites and canola oil.
2. Beat until thoroughly mixed.

Step 3: Prepare Strawberries

In a small bowl or food processor:
1. Mash the thawed strawberries.
2. Set aside 3 tablespoons for frosting.
3. Mix the remaining mashed strawberries with water into the batter.

Step 4: Bake

Pour the batter into prepared pans:
1. Bake in preheated oven for 20–25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
2. Cool for 10 minutes before removing from pans to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Make the Frosting

In a small bowl:
1. Combine softened butter with reserved strawberries.
2. Gradually beat in powdered sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 6: Assemble the Cake

1. Place one cooled round cake on a serving platter.
2. Spread half of the icing on top.
3. Add the second round cake on top of the frosting.
4. Finish by frosting the outside of the entire cake.

Enjoy your delightful Strawberry Cake at your next gathering!

How to Serve Strawberry Cake

Serving Strawberry Cake can elevate any gathering or celebration. Its vibrant flavors and beautiful presentation make it a delightful centerpiece. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dessert experience.

With Fresh Strawberries

• Top each slice of cake with fresh strawberry slices for added flavor and a pop of color.

A Scoop of Whipped Cream

• Serve alongside a dollop of whipped cream to complement the sweetness of the cake.

Vanilla Ice Cream

• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast in temperatures and textures.

Drizzle with Strawberry Sauce

• Add a homemade or store-bought strawberry sauce over the top for an extra burst of strawberry flavor.

Garnish with Mint Leaves

• Fresh mint leaves not only add color but also bring a refreshing taste that balances the sweetness.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange slices on a dessert platter with assorted berries and decorative accents for an elegant presentation at parties.

How to Perfect Strawberry Cake

Creating the perfect Strawberry Cake involves attention to detail and using quality ingredients. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out beautifully every time.

• Use Fresh Strawberries: Opt for ripe, fresh strawberries for natural sweetness and vibrant flavor in both the cake and frosting.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix your batter just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy, avoiding toughness.

• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures, which helps in evenly baking your cake.

• Cool Completely: Allow the cakes to cool fully before frosting; this prevents melting and ensures neat layers.

• Experiment with Flavors: Consider adding lemon zest or almond extract for a unique twist that complements the strawberry flavor beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Strawberry Cake can enhance its charm during any occasion. Here’s a list of delicious side dishes that work well alongside this sweet treat.

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cake.
2. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses offers a savory contrast, enhancing the overall tasting experience.
3. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These indulgent bites echo the flavors in your cake while adding elegance.
4. Mini Cheesecakes: Individual cheesecakes provide variety, pleasing those who enjoy creamy desserts.
5. Pavlova: This light meringue dessert topped with fruit complements the texture and flavors of Strawberry Cake nicely.
6. Lemon Sorbet: A refreshing sorbet helps cleanse the palate between bites of rich cake.
7. Scones with Clotted Cream: These English treats add sophistication and pair wonderfully with fruit-based desserts like Strawberry Cake.
8. Coffee or Tea: Offering coffee or tea as beverages creates a warm atmosphere, perfect for enjoying dessert time together.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a perfect Strawberry Cake can be tricky, but avoiding common mistakes can lead to delicious results. Here are some pitfalls to steer clear of:

• Using cold ingredients: Cold eggs and butter can prevent proper mixing. Always use room temperature ingredients for a smooth batter.
• Not measuring accurately: Baking is a science; even slight variations in measurements can affect the outcome. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix until just combined for a light and fluffy Strawberry Cake.
• Skipping the cooling step: Removing the cake from the pans too soon can cause it to break apart. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
• Ignoring frosting consistency: If your frosting is too thick, it won’t spread easily; too thin, and it won’t hold shape. Adjust by adding powdered sugar or more strawberries until you reach the desired texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Ensure the cake is completely cooled before sealing.

Freezing Strawberry Cake

• Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• The cake will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Strawberry Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, then wrap the cake in aluminum foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 20-30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm gently for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Strawberry Cake that might help you perfect your baking skills.

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh strawberries! Just make sure they are well-mashed and adjust any added water accordingly.

How do I make my Strawberry Cake more flavorful?

Incorporate strawberry puree into both the batter and frosting for an extra burst of flavor. You could also add vanilla extract for depth.

What is the best way to frost my Strawberry Cake?

Start with one layer on your serving platter, spread half of the frosting on top, then gently place the second layer on top and frost the sides and top evenly.

Why did my Strawberry Cake not rise properly?

Possible reasons include expired baking powder or not beating enough air into your batter. Always check ingredient freshness before baking!

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! Try adding lemon zest or using different fruit flavors with similar methods. The versatility of this recipe allows many creative variations.

Final Thoughts

This quick and easy Strawberry Cake is not just delicious but also incredibly versatile. Perfect for gatherings or as a sweet treat at home, it adapts well to various flavors and decorations. Whether you want to keep it simple or dress it up with additional fruits or flavors, this recipe invites creativity. Try it out today!