Strawberry Cake

Quick and easy Strawberry Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of strawberries with the convenience of a boxed cake mix. Perfect for birthdays, picnics, or any sweet occasion, this cake stands out with its vibrant color and luscious taste. The addition of fresh strawberries in both the batter and frosting elevates it beyond a typical cake mix recipe, making it a favorite among cake lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up this Strawberry Cake in no time.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of strawberry Jell-O and real strawberries gives this cake an irresistible strawberry flavor.
• Versatile: Great for birthdays, potlucks, or simply as a treat at home; this cake fits any occasion.
• Moist Texture: Using frozen strawberries ensures your cake remains moist and flavorful from the first slice to the last.
• Customizable Frosting: Feel free to add more strawberries or even other flavors to the frosting for a unique twist.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking process. These essential items will help you create your Strawberry Cake effortlessly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups
• 9-inch round cake pans
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine ingredients without spilling.
• Electric mixer: This tool helps achieve a smooth batter quickly, saving you time and effort.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success, ensuring your cake turns out perfectly every time.

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

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

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

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

Step 3: Incorporate Strawberries

1. In a small bowl or food processor, mash the thawed strawberries.
2. Reserve 3 tablespoons of mashed strawberries for later use in frosting.
3. Add water and remaining mashed strawberries to the batter; mix until combined.
4. Pour the mixture evenly into prepared pans.

Step 4: Bake Your Cakes

1. Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes.
2. When done, check if a toothpick comes out clean when inserted into the middle of each cake.
3. Cool for 10 minutes before removing from pans; then transfer cakes to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Make the Frosting

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

Step 6: Assemble Your Cake

1. Place one cooled round cake on a serving platter.
2. Spread half of your icing on top of this layer.
3. Add the second round cake on top of the frosted layer.
4. Finish by frosting the outside of your Strawberry Cake with the remaining icing.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Strawberry Cake!

How to Serve Strawberry Cake

Strawberry Cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or celebrating a special occasion, these serving suggestions will elevate your dessert experience.

Classic Slice

• Serve a traditional slice of Strawberry Cake on a dessert plate. This allows the vibrant colors of the cake and frosting to be showcased beautifully.

With Fresh Berries

• Top each slice with additional fresh strawberries. This adds a refreshing touch and enhances the strawberry flavor.

A La Mode

• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of the cake slice. The creaminess of the ice cream pairs wonderfully with the cake’s texture.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• Drizzle some chocolate sauce over the cake for an indulgent twist. The combination of strawberry and chocolate is simply irresistible.

Whipped Cream Topping

• Serve each piece with a dollop of whipped cream. This adds lightness and complements the sweetness of the cake.

How to Perfect Strawberry Cake

Making the perfect Strawberry Cake requires attention to detail and some helpful tips. Here are ways to ensure your cake turns out delicious every time:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your eggs and butter are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Measure Flour Correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method when measuring flour to avoid a dense cake.
• Don’t Overmix Batter: Mix just until combined to prevent tough cakes; overmixing can lead to gluten development.
• Cool Cakes Properly: Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting, which prevents melting and sliding of frosting.
• Experiment with Fillings: Consider adding layers of fresh strawberries or jam between the cake layers for extra flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Cake

Pairing side dishes with Strawberry Cake can create an even more delightful meal. Here are some tasty options that complement this dessert perfectly:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cake.

2. Minty Cucumber Salad
   This refreshing salad offers a cool contrast to the rich flavors of Strawberry Cake.

3. Cheese Platter
   A selection of cheeses provides savory notes that pair well with the sweetness of strawberries.

4. Chocolate-Covered Pretzels
   The salty crunch complements the sweet, soft texture of Strawberry Cake.

5. Classic Vanilla Ice Cream
   Ice cream is a timeless pairing that enhances every bite with its creamy goodness.

6. Lemon Sorbet
   A light sorbet offers a zesty contrast that refreshes the palate after enjoying this rich dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your delicious Strawberry Cake, avoiding common pitfalls can significantly enhance your baking experience.

• Skipping the Preheating Step: Always preheat your oven before baking. This ensures even cooking and the perfect rise for your cake.
• Not Greasing the Pans Properly: Failing to grease and flour your pans may lead to sticking. Ensure you coat them evenly to remove the cakes effortlessly after baking.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mix just until combined; overmixing can result in a dense cake. A light touch will keep your Strawberry Cake fluffy and tender.
• Ignoring Cooling Time: Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting. This prevents melting the icing and ensures a beautiful presentation.
• Using Warm Ingredients: Ensure ingredients like butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing. Cold ingredients can lead to an uneven batter.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Strawberry Cake in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Strawberry Cake

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Strawberry Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 15-20 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as this can dry out the cake.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid for about 5 minutes to warm through without drying it out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Many people have questions when it comes to making a fabulous Strawberry Cake. Here are some of the most common:

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of frozen?

Yes! Fresh strawberries can be used in place of frozen ones. Just ensure they are well-mashed before adding them to the batter.

What is the best way to frost my Strawberry Cake?

To achieve a smooth finish, use an offset spatula or a knife dipped in warm water while frosting. This technique helps create an even layer without tearing the cake.

How do I make my Strawberry Cake more flavorful?

Incorporate pureed strawberries into both the batter and frosting for an enhanced strawberry flavor that truly shines.

Is there a gluten-free option for Strawberry Cake?

Yes! You can substitute regular cake mix with gluten-free cake mix and follow the same instructions for an equally delightful dessert.

How should I store leftover strawberry cake?

Store any leftover slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freeze them as mentioned above for later enjoyment.

Final Thoughts

This quick and easy Strawberry Cake is not only full of flavor but also versatile enough for various occasions. Whether you choose to dress it up with fresh strawberries or enjoy it plain, it’s bound to impress friends and family alike. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different flavors or toppings!