Strawberry Cake

Quick and easy Strawberry Cake is a delightful dessert that brings the taste of summer to your table year-round. This cake starts with a boxed mix, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels, while the addition of strawberry Jell-O and fresh strawberries elevates it to something truly special. Perfect for birthdays, picnics, or any celebration, this Strawberry Cake guarantees a burst of flavor in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe uses a boxed cake mix, which simplifies the baking process without sacrificing flavor.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of strawberry Jell-O and fresh strawberries creates an intense strawberry flavor that you’ll love.
• Versatile Occasion Fit: Whether it’s a birthday party or a casual family dinner, this cake suits any occasion.
• Decorative and Delicious: The frosted layers not only look appealing but also provide a sweet treat that everyone will enjoy.
• Quick Prep Time: With just 30 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious Strawberry Cake ready in no time.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this Strawberry Cake, gather your kitchen tools ahead of time. Having everything at hand will streamline the baking process and make it more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 2 9-inch round cake pans
• Mixing bowls
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Rubber spatula
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• 9-inch round cake pans: These are essential for shaping your cake layers evenly.
• Mixing bowls: A good set allows for efficient mixing and separating ingredients as needed.
• Hand mixer or stand mixer: These save time and effort when blending the batter and frosting until smooth.

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 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, then set them aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

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

Step 3: Mix in Strawberries

In a small bowl or food processor, mash the thawed strawberries. Reserve 3 tablespoons for later use in frosting. Add the water and remaining mashed strawberries into your batter mixture. Stir well to combine before pouring into prepared pans.

Step 4: Bake the Cakes

Place your filled pans into the preheated oven. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into 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 5: Make the Frosting

To create your frosting, combine softened butter with the reserved strawberries in a small bowl. Gradually add powdered sugar while beating until light and fluffy.

Step 6: Assemble Your Cake

Once your cakes are completely cooled, take one layer and place it on a serving platter. Spread half of the icing over this layer before placing the second layer on top. Finish by frosting the outside of both layers with the remaining icing. Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Cake!

How to Serve Strawberry Cake

Serving your Strawberry Cake can enhance its delightful flavors and make it an even more inviting dessert. Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious cake.

Classic Slice

• Serve a generous slice of the Strawberry Cake on its own, allowing the bright flavors of strawberries to shine through.

Whipped Cream Topping

• Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top of each slice for extra creaminess and a touch of sweetness.

Fresh Strawberries

• Garnish with fresh strawberry slices to elevate presentation and add a burst of freshness that complements the cake.

Ice Cream Pairing

• Serve a slice alongside a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream for a classic combination that never disappoints.

Chocolate Drizzle

• Drizzle melted chocolate over the top for a rich contrast that enhances the sweetness of the strawberries.

Tea or Coffee

• Pair slices with a cup of tea or coffee to balance the sweetness and create a cozy dessert experience.

How to Perfect Strawberry Cake

To ensure your Strawberry Cake turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and butter are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and better texture in the cake.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined when adding wet ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of a light one.

• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to confirm your oven is at the correct temperature. An oven that’s too hot can burn the cake’s edges while leaving the center undercooked.

• Cool Completely: Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting. This prevents melting and sliding of the frosting, ensuring a beautiful finish.

• Experiment with Fillings: Try adding layers of fresh strawberries or fruit preserves between layers for added flavor and moisture.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Cake

Strawberry Cake pairs well with various side dishes that complement its sweet, fruity flavors. Here are some great options to consider serving alongside it.

1. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the richness of the cake.

2. Cheese Platter
   A selection of cheeses, such as brie or goat cheese, offers a savory contrast to the sweetness of Strawberry Cake.

3. Pistachio Ice Cream
   The nutty flavor of pistachio ice cream provides an interesting texture and flavor pairing with strawberry.

4. Chocolate Mousse
   Light yet indulgent, chocolate mousse brings an elegant touch that complements the fruity notes in the cake.

5. Vanilla Custard
   Creamy vanilla custard serves as another delicious accompaniment that enhances each bite of Strawberry Cake.

6. Lemon Sorbet
   The tartness from lemon sorbet cleanses the palate and refreshes after enjoying dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Strawberry Cake, it’s easy to overlook some important steps. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Using the wrong pan size: Always use two 9-inch round pans as specified in the recipe. Using different sizes can affect baking time and cake texture.

• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is a science. Ensure you measure your ingredients, especially flour and sugar, carefully to achieve the right consistency.

• Skipping the mixing step: Mix the cake batter thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined. This helps the cake rise properly and ensures even flavor throughout.

• Overbaking the cake: Keep an eye on your cake during baking. Check for doneness with a toothpick around 20 minutes to prevent it from drying out.

• Not cooling completely before frosting: Allow your cakes to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting. Frosting a warm cake can cause it to melt and slide off.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Strawberry Cake in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Strawberry Cake

• Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Strawberry Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cake on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes.

• Microwave: Place a slice of cake on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in short intervals of 15 seconds until warmed through.

• Stovetop: If you prefer, you can use a skillet over low heat. Place the slice in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat until warm, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of frozen for Strawberry Cake?

Yes, fresh strawberries can be used! Just ensure they are thoroughly mashed before adding them to the batter.

How do I make this Strawberry Cake more flavorful?

For added flavor, consider incorporating vanilla extract or almond extract into your batter.

Can I substitute the white cake mix?

Absolutely! You can use yellow cake mix or even chocolate mix if you’re feeling adventurous with flavors.

What can I serve with Strawberry Cake?

This delightful Strawberry Cake pairs wonderfully with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.

Final Thoughts

This quick and easy Strawberry Cake is perfect for any occasion, delivering a burst of strawberry flavor that’s hard to resist. With its simple ingredients and customization options—like adding fresh fruit or different frostings—this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try, and enjoy this delicious dessert!