Strawberry Cake

Quick and easy Strawberry Cake is a delightful dessert that brings a burst of strawberry flavor to any occasion. This cake, made using a boxed mix, can be dressed up or down, making it perfect for birthday parties, family gatherings, or simply enjoying a sweet treat at home. Its moist texture and rich frosting will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of strawberries and cake mix creates a delectable dessert that’s hard to resist.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can whip up this Strawberry Cake in no time.
• Versatile Occasion: Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just as a special treat during the week.
• Customizable Frosting: You can easily adjust the sweetness and flavors of the frosting to fit your taste preferences.
• Family-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults, making it an ideal choice for family celebrations.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes baking much easier. Ensure you’re prepared before diving into this delicious recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: This tool saves time by quickly blending ingredients to achieve a smooth batter.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success to ensure the right balance of flavors and textures.
• Wire rack: A wire rack allows cakes to cool evenly, preventing soggy bottoms and ensuring perfect texture.

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 Jell-O (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, then set them aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

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

Step 3: Incorporate Strawberries

In a small bowl or food processor, mash the thawed strawberries. Set aside 3 tablespoons of mashed strawberries for icing later. Add water and the remaining mashed strawberries into your batter; mix well. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans.

Step 4: Bake the Cakes

Place the pans in your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Check if they’re done by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean. Allow them to cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Make the Frosting

In a small bowl, combine softened butter with the reserved 3 tablespoons of mashed strawberries. Gradually beat in powdered sugar until you achieve a light and fluffy consistency.

Step 6: Assemble Your Cake

Once cooled, place one round cake on your serving platter. Spread half of your icing on top of this layer. Carefully place the second round cake on top of it and finish frosting the entire outer surface of your Strawberry Cake.

Enjoy creating this delightful Strawberry Cake that everyone will love!

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 just indulging in a sweet treat, these serving suggestions will elevate your Strawberry Cake experience.

Classic Slice

• Serve a generous slice of the cake on its own to appreciate the rich strawberry flavor.

With Fresh Berries

• Top each slice with additional fresh strawberries for an extra burst of flavor and color.

Whipped Cream Topping

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on top of each slice to create a creamy contrast with the cake’s texture.

Ice Cream Pairing

• Serve alongside vanilla ice cream to enhance the sweetness and add a cool element to your dessert.

Drizzle of Chocolate Sauce

• Drizzle melted chocolate sauce over the top for a decadent twist that complements the fruitiness.

Tea or Coffee Companion

• Pair your slice with a cup of tea or coffee for a warm beverage contrast, perfect for afternoon enjoyment.

How to Perfect Strawberry Cake

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

• Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure your eggs and butter are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mix just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.

• Check doneness early: Start checking your cake around 20 minutes in case your oven runs hot; this prevents overbaking.

• Let it cool completely: Allow the cakes to cool fully before frosting; this helps keep the icing from melting.

• Experiment with flavors: Try adding lemon zest or vanilla extract for an added depth of flavor in your cake.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Cake

To complement your Strawberry Cake, consider serving it with these delicious side dishes. They balance the sweetness and enhance the overall dining experience.

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and balances the sweetness of the cake.
2. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy and crunchy contrast.
3. Pistachio Muffins: The nutty flavor pairs beautifully with strawberries while adding texture.
4. Coconut Macaroons: Chewy coconut treats provide a delightful contrast in flavor and texture.
5. Lemon Sorbet: This refreshing dessert cleanses your palate between bites of rich Strawberry Cake.
6. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can complement the sweetness and richness of your cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Strawberry Cake, it’s easy to make small mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Not Greasing the Pans Properly: Failing to grease and flour your pans can lead to your cake sticking. Always ensure the pans are well-prepared before pouring in the batter.

• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can result in a dense cake. Mix just until combined for a lighter texture.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Cold eggs or butter can lead to uneven mixing. Let your ingredients reach room temperature before starting.

• Skipping Cooling Time: Removing the cake from the pan too soon can cause it to break apart. Allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.

• Incorrect Baking Time: Each oven is different; always check your cake a few minutes before the suggested baking time. Use a toothpick to check doneness.

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 individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Strawberry Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cake on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat a slice for about 20-30 seconds on medium power. Check if it’s warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a non-stick skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions related to Strawberry Cake that might help you as you bake.

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh strawberries can be used, but they may provide slightly different moisture levels than frozen ones.

How do I make my Strawberry Cake more flavorful?

Consider adding vanilla extract or lemon zest for additional depth of flavor alongside the strawberries.

Can I substitute ingredients in this Strawberry Cake?

Absolutely! You can swap out oil for applesauce or use whole eggs instead of egg whites if desired.

What is the best way to frost my Strawberry Cake?

For even frosting, use an offset spatula and apply a thin layer first (crumb coat), then follow with your final layer after chilling briefly.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Cake is not only delicious but also versatile. With its light texture and vibrant flavor, it’s perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it by adding layers of whipped cream or trying different frosting options. Enjoy experimenting with this delightful dessert!