Strawberry Cake

Quick and easy Strawberry Cake is the perfect dessert for any occasion. This delightful cake combines the convenience of a boxed mix with the fresh flavors of strawberries, creating a treat that is both simple to make and impressively delicious. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a gathering, or simply indulging in a sweet craving, this Strawberry Cake is sure to be a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious cake in no time.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of strawberry Jell-O and real strawberries provides an intense strawberry taste that everyone will adore.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a layered cake or slice it into cupcakes for a fun twist.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: This Strawberry Cake is suitable for birthdays, holidays, or just because!
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant color and frosting make this cake visually stunning and perfect for impressing guests.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will streamline your baking process and ensure a smooth experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Two 9-inch round cake pans
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer or whisk: Ensures that your batter is well-blended, resulting in a light and fluffy cake.
• Mixing bowls: Provide ample space for combining ingredients without spills.
• Cooling rack: Allows the cakes to cool evenly, preventing sogginess on the bottom.

Ingredients

To create this delectable Strawberry Cake, gather the following 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

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

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix and strawberry Jell-O mix until fully mixed. Add egg whites and canola oil. Beat until well blended.

Step 3: Incorporate Strawberries

In a small bowl or food processor, mash the thawed strawberries. Reserve 3 tablespoons for icing. Then add water along with the remaining mashed strawberries to the batter. Mix until combined thoroughly.

Step 4: Bake the Cakes

Pour the batter into prepared pans. Bake in preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean when inserted into the center. Allow cakes to cool for 10 minutes before removing from pans to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 5: Make the Frosting

In a small bowl, combine softened butter with reserved strawberries. Gradually beat in powdered sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 6: Assemble the Cake

Place one cooled round cake on a serving platter. Spread half of the icing on top of it. Then place the other round cake on top of this frosting layer. Finish by frosting the outside of the entire cake with remaining icing.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Strawberry Cake!

How to Serve Strawberry Cake

Serving Strawberry Cake is an opportunity to delight your guests with this flavorful dessert. Pair it with complementary sides or garnishes to enhance its strawberry goodness.

Serve with Fresh Whipped Cream

• Light and airy whipped cream adds a creamy texture that balances the sweetness of the cake.

Add a Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream

• The classic pairing of vanilla ice cream and Strawberry Cake creates a delicious contrast in flavors and temperatures.

Top with Fresh Strawberries

• Sliced fresh strawberries not only enhance presentation but also add a burst of natural flavor to each slice.

Drizzle with Fruit Sauce

• A homemade fruit sauce made from pureed strawberries or other berries can elevate each bite with added moisture and flavor.

Garnish with Mint Leaves

• Fresh mint leaves can provide a refreshing touch, making the dessert visually appealing and aromatic.

How to Perfect Strawberry Cake

Achieving the perfect Strawberry Cake is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you create a delicious masterpiece.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This ensures even mixing and helps the batter rise properly for a light texture.

• Measure Accurately: Precision in measuring your ingredients can significantly impact the final taste and texture of your cake.

• Don’t Overmix Batter: Mixing just until combined prevents the cake from becoming tough.

• Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick; if it comes out clean from the center, your cake is ready to come out of the oven.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Strawberry Cake can enhance your dessert experience. Consider these delicious options:

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits complements the sweetness of the cake while adding freshness.

2. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses offers a savory contrast that balances the sweetness of the cake.

3. Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and fruit provides a creamy, crunchy addition that pairs well with cake.

4. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These indulgent treats echo the flavors in your cake while adding an elegant touch.

5. Nut Mix: A bowl of lightly salted nuts adds crunch and flavor, creating a nice balance against the soft texture of the cake.

6. Ice Cream Sundae Bar: Let guests build their own sundaes using various toppings for a fun and interactive dessert experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Strawberry Cake, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the flavor and texture of your dessert.

• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. To avoid this, mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Inaccurate measurements can alter the cake’s outcome. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
• Skipping the Cooling Time: Trying to frost a warm cake can cause the icing to melt. Always allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Each oven can vary in temperature. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures for perfect results.
• Using Old Ingredients: Expired baking soda or old cake mix can affect rise and flavor. Always check ingredient freshness before starting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Strawberry Cake in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
• If you have leftover frosting, store it separately in a sealed container.

Freezing Strawberry Cake

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Strawberry Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the cake in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 15-20 seconds at a time, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: For a quick warm-up, place a slice in a skillet over low heat with a lid on. Heat for 2-3 minutes until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Strawberry Cake that may help you achieve the best results.

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh strawberries can be used. Just ensure they are well mashed and similar in quantity to maintain flavor.

How do I make this Strawberry Cake gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, substitute the white cake mix with a gluten-free blend designed for cakes.

What should I serve with Strawberry Cake?

This cake pairs well with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for added richness and flavor.

Can I customize this Strawberry Cake recipe?

Absolutely! You can add layers of different fruits or adjust frosting flavors like lemon or vanilla for variety.

How long does it take to bake Strawberry Cake?

The baking time is approximately 20-25 minutes, but always check with a toothpick inserted into the center.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Cake is not only simple to make but also packed with delicious strawberry flavor. It’s perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to casual gatherings. Feel free to customize it by adding different fruits or changing up the frosting flavors. Give this delightful dessert a try!