Strawberry Cake

Quick and easy Strawberry Cake is a delightful treat that combines the convenience of a boxed mix with fresh strawberry flavor. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just a sweet afternoon snack, this cake is sure to impress with its vibrant color and rich taste. The addition of strawberries elevates the simple cake mix into a homemade masterpiece that everyone will adore.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simplicity: This recipe uses a boxed cake mix, making it quick and easy to prepare even for novice bakers.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of strawberry Jell-O and real strawberries creates an irresistible flavor that stands out.
• Versatility: Perfect for various occasions like birthdays, picnics, or family gatherings—you can serve it plain or dressed up with extra toppings.
• Moist Texture: The use of frozen strawberries ensures your cake remains moist and flavorful throughout.
• Customizable Frosting: The frosting can easily be adjusted to your liking by adding different flavors or colors.

Tools and Preparation

To create your delicious Strawberry Cake, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment can make the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Round cake pans (9 inch)
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Round cake pans: Ensures your cake bakes evenly in perfect round shapes, ideal for layering.
• Electric mixer or whisk: Makes mixing ingredients easier and helps achieve a light, fluffy batter.
• Rubber spatula: Perfect for scraping down sides of bowls to ensure all ingredients are well combined.

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Ingredients

To make this delightful 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 cups 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 Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the white cake mix and strawberry Jell-O mix until well blended.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Add the egg whites and canola oil to the dry mixture. Beat everything together until fully combined.

Step 4: Prepare Strawberries

In a small bowl or food processor, mash the thawed strawberries. Set aside 3 tablespoons for icing later. Add the remaining mashed strawberries along with water to the batter and mix until smooth.

Step 5: Bake the Cakes

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake in your preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in 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 6: Make the Frosting

In a small bowl, combine softened butter with the reserved strawberry puree. Gradually beat in powdered sugar until you achieve a light and fluffy consistency.

Step 7: Assemble Your Cake

Place one cooled round cake on your serving platter. Spread half of the frosting on top. Then, place the second round cake on top of that layer and frost the top and sides as desired.

Enjoy your homemade Strawberry Cake, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Strawberry Cake

Strawberry Cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat, here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

Pair with Fresh Strawberries

• Serve with extra strawberries: Garnish each slice of Strawberry Cake with fresh strawberries for added flavor and a beautiful presentation.

Accompany with Whipped Cream

• Top with whipped cream: A dollop of whipped cream enhances the cake’s sweetness and provides a creamy texture that complements the strawberries perfectly.

Add a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Pair with vanilla ice cream: The rich creaminess of vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the fruity flavors of the cake, making it an irresistible combination.

Drizzle with Fruit Sauce

• Use strawberry or raspberry sauce: A drizzle of homemade fruit sauce adds an extra layer of flavor and a splash of color to your serving plate.

Serve as Mini Cakes

• Create mini versions: Use cupcake liners to make individual portions. These mini Strawberry Cakes make for fun party treats or personal desserts.

How to Perfect Strawberry Cake

Achieving the perfect Strawberry Cake is easy when you follow these simple tips. With a few adjustments, you can elevate this delightful dessert.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure your egg whites and butter are at room temperature for better mixing and fluffier cake.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mix just until combined to prevent a dense texture. Overmixing can lead to tough cake.

• Check oven temperature accuracy: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is baking at the correct temperature for even cooking.

• Cool completely before frosting: Allow your cakes to cool completely on a wire rack before applying any frosting to prevent melting and sliding.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Cake

Serving side dishes alongside your Strawberry Cake can create a well-rounded dessert table. Here are some great options to consider:

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

2. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These indulgent treats complement the cake’s strawberry flavor while adding a touch of elegance.

3. Lemon Sorbet: The tartness of lemon sorbet contrasts nicely with the sweet cake, providing a refreshing palate cleanser.

4. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses offers savory notes that pair well with the sweet flavors in Strawberry Cake.

5. Nutty Granola Bars: Homemade granola bars provide crunch alongside your soft cake, enhancing texture variety.

6. Beverage Pairings: Serve iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing drink option that harmonizes beautifully with the flavors of the cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a Strawberry Cake can be straightforward, but there are common pitfalls that can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the greasing step: Not greasing your pans can cause the cake to stick, making it difficult to remove. Always grease and flour your pans well before pouring in the batter.

• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Improper measurements can lead to dry or dense cakes. Use measuring cups and spoons for precise measurements of all ingredients.

• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can result in a tough texture. Mix just until combined for a light and fluffy cake.

• Ignoring baking time: Every oven is different. Check your cake a few minutes before the suggested baking time to avoid overbaking.

• Using cold ingredients: Cold eggs and butter can affect how well they mix. Let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before using.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store the Strawberry Cake in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-5 days in the refrigerator.
• Keep it away from strong-smelling foods to prevent absorption of odors.

Freezing Strawberry Cake

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Strawberry Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the cake on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 20-30 seconds, checking frequently.

• Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat with a lid to warm gently, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Strawberry Cake:

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of frozen?

Yes, you can substitute fresh strawberries for frozen ones. Ensure they are ripe for maximum flavor.

How do I make my Strawberry Cake more flavorful?

Consider adding vanilla extract or almond extract to enhance the flavor profile of your cake.

Can I use other fruits in this recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe is versatile; try substituting blueberries or raspberries for a different twist.

What’s the best way to frost my Strawberry Cake?

For easier frosting, ensure your cakes are completely cool and use a spatula or knife for an even layer of icing.

How long does it take to prepare Strawberry Cake?

The total time from prep to finish is about 55 minutes, making it a quick dessert option!

Final Thoughts

This easy Strawberry Cake recipe is not only delicious but also adaptable. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a sweet treat, this cake fits the bill perfectly. Feel free to customize it with different fruits or flavors, ensuring that every bite is uniquely yours!