Strawberry Cake

Quick and easy Strawberry Cake is the perfect dessert for any occasion. This delightful treat combines the sweetness of strawberries with a light, fluffy cake that’s sure to please anyone at your table. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a picnic, or just craving something sweet, this Strawberry Cake will stand out with its vibrant flavor and inviting appearance.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to Prepare: With a boxed cake mix as the base, this recipe simplifies the baking process without sacrificing taste.
• Bursting with Flavor: The addition of strawberry Jell-O and fresh strawberries creates an irresistible strawberry punch in every bite.
• Versatile for All Occasions: Perfect for birthdays, picnics, or just a regular family dinner, this cake fits any celebration.
• Light and Fluffy Texture: The whipped egg whites contribute to a tender crumb that melts in your mouth.
• Delicious Frosting: The soft buttercream frosting infused with strawberries adds an extra layer of flavor that complements the cake beautifully.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious Strawberry Cake, you will need some essential tools. Having the right equipment can make your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: A powerful electric mixer ensures that your batter is well-blended and fluffy, which is crucial for achieving the perfect texture.
• Mixing bowls: High-quality mixing bowls allow you to easily combine ingredients without mess.
• Cake pans: Using good non-stick cake pans guarantees easy removal of your cakes without any sticking or tearing.

Ingredients

For the Cake Base

• 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 Dry Ingredients

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

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Add the egg whites and canola oil to the dry mixture. Beat until fully blended.

Step 4: Incorporate Strawberries

In a small bowl or food processor, mash the thawed strawberries. Reserve 3 tablespoons for frosting. Add the remaining mashed strawberries and water to the batter, mixing until combined. Pour evenly into prepared pans.

Step 5: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 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 6: Prepare Frosting

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

Step 7: Assemble the Cake

Place one cooled round cake on a serving platter. Spread half of the icing on top. Place the second round cake on top of this layer and complete frosting on the outside of both layers.

Now you have a stunning Strawberry Cake ready to be enjoyed!

How to Serve Strawberry Cake

Strawberry Cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you are celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat, serving suggestions can enhance the overall experience.

Classic Slice

• A traditional slice of Strawberry Cake is perfect on its own, showcasing the rich strawberry flavor and moist texture.

With Fresh Berries

• Top each slice with a few fresh strawberries for added color and freshness. This enhances the cake’s appeal and adds a burst of flavor.

A La Mode

• Serve your Strawberry Cake with a scoop of vanilla or dairy-free ice cream. The creaminess pairs beautifully with the fruity cake.

Whipped Cream Topping

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra indulgence. You can also sprinkle some powdered sugar for an elegant finish.

Drizzle of Strawberry Sauce

• Enhance the strawberry flavor by drizzling homemade strawberry sauce over the cake. This adds moisture and a sweet-tart contrast.

Coffee Pairing

• Enjoy your Strawberry Cake with a cup of coffee or tea. The warm beverage complements the sweetness of the cake perfectly.

How to Perfect Strawberry Cake

Perfecting your Strawberry Cake ensures every bite is delicious and satisfying. Here are some tips to elevate your baking game.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially eggs and butter, are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix just until combined to avoid tough cake. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cake as it bakes; ovens vary. Use a toothpick to check doneness.
• Cool Properly: Allow the cake layers to cool completely before frosting. This helps prevent melting and sliding of the icing.
• Experiment with Flavors: Consider adding lemon zest or vanilla extract to enhance the flavor profile of your Strawberry Cake.
• Store Correctly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Cake

Pairing side dishes with Strawberry Cake can create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some delicious options that complement its flavors.

1. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits will balance out the sweetness of the cake.

2. Cheese Platter
   A selection of cheeses provides a savory contrast that works well alongside sweet desserts.

3. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries
   Adding chocolate-covered strawberries brings an indulgent touch that enhances berry flavors.

4. Pecan Pie Bars
   These bars introduce nutty flavors and caramel sweetness, creating an exciting flavor combination.

5. Lemon Sorbet
   The tartness of lemon sorbet acts as a palate cleanser, making it a perfect pairing after rich desserts.

6. Mini Cheesecakes
   Bite-sized cheesecakes offer creamy goodness without overwhelming sweetness, complementing the cake beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a Strawberry Cake can be simple, but avoiding common pitfalls can make a significant difference in the outcome.

• Not measuring ingredients accurately – Accurate measurements are crucial for the perfect texture. Use a kitchen scale for dry ingredients and measuring cups for liquids.

• Overmixing the batter – Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until combined to keep your Strawberry Cake light and fluffy.

• Skipping the cooling step – Removing the cake from the pans too soon can cause breakage. Allow it to cool for at least 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.

• Not using enough strawberries – For maximum flavor, ensure you use the right amount of strawberries. Fresh or thawed frozen strawberries enhance the taste significantly.

• Ignoring baking times – Every oven is different. Start checking your cake a few minutes before the recommended time to avoid overbaking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Strawberry Cake

• Wrap slices of Strawberry Cake tightly in plastic wrap and then 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, wrap the cake in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave – Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate; heat for 15-20 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop – Use a skillet over low heat; cover and warm each slice for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to decorate Strawberry Cake?

You can use fresh strawberries, whipped cream, or additional frosting for decoration. Get creative with toppings!

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of frozen?

Yes! Fresh strawberries will work wonderfully in this recipe. Just mash them as instructed.

How can I make my Strawberry Cake more flavorful?

Consider adding vanilla extract or lemon zest to enhance the strawberry flavor further.

Is this Strawberry Cake suitable for special occasions?

Absolutely! Its delightful flavor and beautiful appearance make it perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or any celebration.

Can I customize this recipe?

Definitely! You can add other fruits like blueberries or raspberries or even layer it with cream cheese frosting for variety.

Final Thoughts

This easy-to-make Strawberry Cake is not only delicious but also versatile. With its vibrant flavor and appealing look, it’s sure to impress at any gathering. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or fillings to suit your taste!