Strawberry Cake

Quick and easy Strawberry Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the convenience of a boxed mix with the fresh, vibrant flavors of strawberries. This cake is perfect for birthdays, picnics, or simply as a sweet treat to brighten your day. With its moist texture and luscious strawberry frosting, it stands out in both taste and presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Using a boxed cake mix makes this recipe easy to whip up in no time.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of strawberry Jell-O and real strawberries creates a rich, fruity flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Occasion: Perfect for celebrations, family gatherings, or just because you want something sweet!
• Simple Ingredients: Made with common pantry staples, this cake is accessible for everyone.
• Frosting Perfection: The homemade frosting adds an extra layer of flavor and makes it visually stunning.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making your Strawberry Cake, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything at hand will make the baking process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9-inch round cake pans
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• 9-inch round cake pans: Ensures even baking and perfect cake layers.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Electric mixer or whisk: Helps achieve a light and fluffy batter quickly.
• Wire rack: Allows cakes to cool evenly without getting soggy.

Ingredients

Quick and easy Strawberry Cake that started with a boxed mix that is easily dressed up for a cake full of strawberry flavor.

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 them aside.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

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

Step 3: Prepare Strawberries

In a small bowl or food processor, mash the frozen strawberries. Set aside 3 tablespoons for icing later. Add the remaining berries along with water into the batter and mix thoroughly. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans.

Step 4: Bake the Cakes

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

Step 5: Make the Frosting

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

Step 6: Assemble Your Cake

Once cooled, place one round cake layer on your serving platter. Spread half of the frosting on top, then place the second layer on top of that. Finish by frosting the outside of your Strawberry Cake with any remaining icing.

This simple yet delicious recipe will surely be a hit at any gathering! Enjoy your homemade Strawberry Cake!

How to Serve Strawberry Cake

Serving Strawberry Cake can turn any occasion into a delightful celebration. Whether it’s a birthday party, family gathering, or just a sweet treat for yourself, there are many creative ways to present this delicious dessert.

Classic Presentation

• Place the cake on a decorative cake stand for an elegant touch.
• Garnish with fresh strawberries around the base for added freshness.

With Ice Cream

• Serve slices of Strawberry Cake alongside a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream.
• The creaminess of the ice cream complements the fruity flavors beautifully.

A Drizzle of Sauce

• Drizzle some strawberry sauce over each slice before serving.
• This adds extra flavor and makes the dish visually appealing.

Whipped Cream Topping

• Top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream.
• The lightness of the cream enhances the cake’s sweetness.

Fruit Compote

• Serve with a side of mixed berry compote for added texture and taste.
• This pairing brings out the strawberry flavor in your cake even more.

How to Perfect Strawberry Cake

To ensure your Strawberry Cake is as delightful as possible, follow these helpful tips. Each small detail can make a significant impact on the final product.

• Use fresh strawberries: Incorporating fresh strawberries instead of frozen ones enhances flavor and texture.
• Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
• Check for doneness: Use a toothpick to test if the cake is fully baked; it should come out clean.
• Cool completely: Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting to avoid melting your icing.
• Adjust sweetness: Taste your frosting and add more powdered sugar if you prefer a sweeter finish.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Cake

Pairing side dishes with Strawberry Cake can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options that complement its flavors perfectly.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cake.

2. Chocolate Mousse
   The richness of chocolate mousse balances out the fruity notes in Strawberry Cake wonderfully.

3. Lemon Sorbet
   This light and zesty sorbet offers a bright contrast that cleanses the palate between bites.

4. Cheese Platter
   A selection of cheeses adds savory elements that complement the sweetness of the cake nicely.

5. Pistachio Ice Cream
   The nutty flavor adds an interesting twist while pairing well with strawberries.

6. Coconut Macaroons
   These chewy treats bring in another layer of sweetness while being easy to prepare alongside your cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Skipping the greasing step: Always grease and flour your pans to prevent the cake from sticking. This ensures a smooth release when you take it out of the pan.
• Using cold ingredients: For best results, ensure your egg whites and butter are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can lead to an uneven batter and dense cake.
• Not measuring accurately: Use proper measuring cups for dry and wet ingredients. Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the right texture in your Strawberry Cake.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can develop gluten in the flour, making your cake tough instead of light and fluffy.
• Ignoring cooling time: Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting. Frosting a warm cake can cause the icing to melt and slide off.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Strawberry Cake in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Strawberry Cake

• Wrap individual slices or whole cakes in plastic wrap, then foil to prevent freezer burn.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Strawberry Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, wrap the cake in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 15-30 seconds. Check frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Place a slice on a non-stick skillet over low heat with a lid on. Heat gently for about 5 minutes until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Strawberry Cake that can 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 thoroughly mashed before adding them to the batter.

How do I make my Strawberry Cake more flavorful?

You can enhance flavor by adding a splash of vanilla extract or even a hint of almond extract for a unique twist.

Can I substitute other flavors in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute different flavored jello or mix in other berries like raspberries or blueberries for variety.

What should I do if my cake is too dense?

If your cake turns out dense, check that you measured the flour correctly and didn’t overmix your batter.

How do I store my leftover Strawberry Cake?

Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze it for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

This quick and easy Strawberry Cake is not only delightful but also versatile. You can customize it with various fruits or extracts based on your preferences. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging yourself, this cake is sure to bring joy!