Strawberry Cake

Quick and easy Strawberry Cake is the perfect dessert for any occasion, from birthdays to family gatherings. With its delightful strawberry flavor and simple preparation using a boxed mix, this cake stands out as a crowd-pleaser. The combination of fresh strawberries and a fluffy frosting makes it an irresistible treat that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: This Strawberry Cake starts with a boxed mix, simplifying the baking process while still delivering great taste.
• Delicious Flavor: The addition of strawberry Jell-O and fresh strawberries infuses the cake with vibrant strawberry flavor that truly shines.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for celebrations, potlucks, or just a cozy evening at home, this cake fits a variety of occasions.
• Customizable Frosting: The frosting can be adjusted to your liking by adding more strawberries or even different flavors for a unique twist.
• Great for Sharing: With 12 servings, it’s ideal for sharing with family and friends—everyone will want a slice!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the deliciousness of Strawberry Cake, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience. The right equipment makes all the difference in achieving a perfect cake.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• 9-inch round cake pans
• Wire cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Ensures thorough blending of ingredients for a light and fluffy cake texture.
• Mixing bowls: Provides ample space to combine all ingredients without spills.
• Rubber spatula: Helps scrape down the sides of bowls, ensuring no ingredients are left behind.

Ingredients

For this scrumptious Strawberry Cake, you will need 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
• 3 Tablespoons reserved strawberries (from above)

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: Prepare the Batter

In a large bowl, combine the white cake mix and sugar-free strawberry Jell-O mix until well mixed. Add in the egg whites and canola oil. Beat until all ingredients are thoroughly blended.

Step 3: Incorporate Strawberries

In a small bowl or food processor, mash the thawed strawberries. Set aside 3 tablespoons for frosting later. Add the remaining mashed strawberries along with water to the batter mixture. Stir until combined, then pour evenly into prepared pans.

Step 4: Bake Your Cakes

Place the pans in your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, cool in pans for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Make the Frosting

To create the frosting, combine softened butter with the reserved strawberries in a small bowl. Gradually beat in powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Step 6: Assemble Your Cake

Take one cooled round cake and place it on a serving platter. Spread half of your icing on top before placing the second round cake on top of it. Finally, finish frosting the outside of your delicious Strawberry Cake!

How to Serve Strawberry Cake

Strawberry Cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a sweet treat, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With Fresh Strawberries

• Top each slice with fresh strawberries for an added burst of flavor and texture.

A Scoop of Whipped Cream

• Serve the cake with a dollop of whipped cream on the side for a creamy complement.

Pairing with Ice Cream

• Vanilla or strawberry ice cream pairs beautifully with Strawberry Cake, offering a cool contrast to the warm cake.

Drizzle of Strawberry Sauce

• Add a drizzle of homemade strawberry sauce over the top for an elegant presentation and extra sweetness.

Garnishing with Mint Leaves

• Fresh mint leaves can be used as a garnish, adding a refreshing touch and vibrant color to your plate.

Enjoying with Tea or Coffee

• This cake pairs well with a hot cup of tea or coffee, making it an excellent choice for afternoon gatherings.

How to Perfect Strawberry Cake

Creating the perfect Strawberry Cake requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your strawberries are ripe and flavorful for the best taste.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter until just combined to keep your cake light and fluffy.
• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures for even cooking.
• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allow your cakes to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting and sliding.
• Experiment with Flavor: Add lemon zest or vanilla extract for an extra layer of flavor in your batter.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Cake

Strawberry Cake is delicious on its own but can be complemented by various side dishes. Here’s a list of delightful pairings.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cake.
2. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a tasty contrast that enhances the meal experience.
3. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries
   These indulgent treats provide a rich chocolatey finish alongside the fruity cake.
4. Cheese Platter
   A selection of cheeses, such as brie or goat cheese, offers savory notes that pair well with the sweetness.
5. Pecan Pie Bars
   The nutty flavor complements Strawberry Cake perfectly while providing different textures.
6. Lemon Sorbet
   A refreshing sorbet serves as a palate cleanser between bites, enhancing the overall dining experience.
7. Vanilla Pudding Cups
   Creamy vanilla pudding adds another layer of dessert fun while staying light and tasty.
8. Coconut Macaroons
   These chewy treats introduce coconut flavor, creating an exciting combination when served together.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a Strawberry Cake can be simple, but many make common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Using the wrong cake mix: Always choose a white cake mix as your base for the best flavor and texture. Other mixes may alter the intended taste.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Precision is key in baking. Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure you get the right quantities for perfect results.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Combine ingredients just until blended for a light and fluffy texture.
• Skipping the cooling step: Allowing the cake to cool completely before frosting helps prevent melting. Don’t rush this important step!
• Inadequate frosting preparation: Ensure your frosting is light and fluffy by beating it well after adding powdered sugar. This creates a smooth finish on your Strawberry Cake.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover Strawberry Cake in an airtight container.
• The cake can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Strawberry Cake

• Wrap slices or whole cakes tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Strawberry Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place cake slices on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 15-20 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat slices in a pan over low heat, covered, for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying Strawberry Cake:

How can I enhance the flavor of my Strawberry Cake?

You can enhance flavor by adding vanilla extract or lemon zest to the batter, giving it an extra depth.

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh strawberries work well! Just ensure they’re properly mashed before adding them to the batter.

How do I make my Strawberry Cake more moist?

Adding an extra egg white or using buttermilk instead of water can increase moisture in your cake.

What are some good frosting options for Strawberry Cake?

Cream cheese frosting or whipped cream works wonderfully with Strawberry Cake, adding rich flavors that complement the berries.

Can I customize this Strawberry Cake recipe?

Absolutely! You can add different fruits or even swap in alternative flours if you’re looking for variety or specific dietary needs.

Final Thoughts

This quick and easy Strawberry Cake is perfect for any occasion. Its delightful strawberry flavor makes it a crowd-pleaser! Feel free to customize it with different toppings or fillings to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy experimenting with this versatile recipe!