Strawberry Cake

Strawberry Cake is a delightful dessert that brings the sweet taste of summer to any occasion. This quick and easy recipe begins with a boxed mix, making it accessible for bakers of all levels. With its vibrant strawberry flavor and beautiful presentation, this Strawberry Cake is perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or simply when you’re craving something sweet.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Using a boxed cake mix makes this recipe easy to whip up in just 30 minutes.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The addition of strawberries not only enhances the flavor but adds a lovely moistness to the cake.
• Versatile Serving Options: This cake can be served at parties or enjoyed as an afternoon treat with coffee.
• Eye-Catching Presentation: The bright pink hue from the strawberries makes this cake visually appealing on any dessert table.
• Simple Ingredients: All you need are basic ingredients, many of which you might already have at home.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools and prepare your kitchen. Having everything ready will make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Speeds up the mixing process, ensuring a well-blended batter without much effort.
• 9-inch round cake pans: Perfect size for even baking and allows for easy layering of the cakes.

Ingredients

To create this delicious 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

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 mixed thoroughly. Add in egg whites and canola oil, then beat until well blended.

Step 3: Incorporate Strawberries

In a small bowl or food processor, mash the thawed strawberries. Reserve 3 tablespoons for icing. Combine the remaining mashed strawberries with water and add them to the batter. Mix well before pouring into prepared pans.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

Place your filled pans in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean. Once baked, cool for about 10 minutes in the pans before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Make the Frosting

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

Step 6: Assemble Your Cake

Take one cooled round cake layer and place it on a serving platter. Spread half of your icing over this layer. Carefully place the second round cake on top of the frosted layer and finish by frosting the outer layers of your Strawberry Cake.

Enjoy this delightful treat that embodies freshness and sweetness! Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a casual dessert at home, this Strawberry Cake is sure to impress.

How to Serve Strawberry Cake

Strawberry Cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply treating yourself, these serving suggestions will elevate your cake experience.

Classic Slice

• Serve a generous slice of Strawberry Cake on a plate, garnished with fresh strawberry slices for an inviting look.

Whipped Cream Topping

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on top of each slice for a creamy contrast to the strawberry flavor.

A La Mode

• Pair your cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold ice cream complements the sweet strawberries perfectly.

Fresh Fruit Garnish

• Decorate with additional fresh berries like blueberries or raspberries for added color and flavor.

Toasted Almonds

• Sprinkle toasted almonds on top for a crunchy texture that enhances the overall taste.

Coffee Companion

• Serve alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee for a classic dessert pairing that balances sweetness with richness.

How to Perfect Strawberry Cake

Perfecting your Strawberry Cake can take it from good to great. Here are some tips to ensure your cake shines every time.

• Use Fresh Strawberries: Fresh strawberries offer vibrant flavor and color, making your cake even more appealing.

• Don’t Overmix: Mixing too much can make your cake dense. Mix just until combined for a lighter texture.

• Level Your Cakes: Trim the tops of your cakes if they have domed during baking. This helps them stack neatly and look professional.

• Chill Before Frosting: Allow your cakes to cool completely before frosting. This prevents melting and makes for cleaner layers.

• Experiment with Flavors: Add lemon zest or vanilla extract to enhance the flavor profile beyond just strawberry.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Cake

Pairing delicious side dishes with your Strawberry Cake can enhance the dining experience. Here are some tasty options to consider.

1. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can provide a refreshing contrast and balance out the sweetness of the cake.
2. Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses pairs well, offering savory notes that complement the sweet flavors.
3. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These treats echo the strawberry theme while introducing rich chocolate flavors.
4. Coconut Macaroons: Chewy coconut macaroons add texture and another layer of sweetness alongside your cake.
5. Panna Cotta: This creamy Italian dessert offers a smooth, elegant finish that contrasts nicely with the cake’s fluffiness.
6. Minty Green Salad: A fresh green salad with mint can cleanse the palate and provide a refreshing bite after dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a Strawberry Cake can be a delightful experience, but certain missteps can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some common mistakes and tips to help you avoid them.

• Boldly skip the prep work: Not greasing and flouring your pans properly can result in cakes that stick. Always prepare your pans to ensure easy release.
• Boldly ignore ingredient temperatures: Using cold ingredients can affect how well your cake rises. Make sure eggs and butter are at room temperature for better mixing.
• Boldly overmix the batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a fluffy texture.
• Boldly forget to check the oven temperature: An oven that’s too hot or too cold can ruin your cake. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking conditions.
• Boldly skimp on cooling time: Cutting into your cake while it’s still warm can lead to crumbling. Allow it to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Strawberry Cake

• Wrap individual slices or the whole cake in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe container.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Strawberry Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices for about 15 seconds. Be careful not to overdo it, as this can dry out the cake.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a pan over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm slowly for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Strawberry Cake that may help enhance your baking experience.

What makes this Strawberry Cake unique?

This Strawberry Cake stands out due to its use of real strawberries combined with strawberry Jell-O, intensifying the flavor and providing moisture.

How do I customize my Strawberry Cake?

You can add nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor or swap in other berries like raspberries or blueberries for a different twist.

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh strawberries work just as well! Just make sure they are ripe and sweet for the best flavor.

How do I know when my Strawberry Cake is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, your cake is ready!

Final Thoughts

This quick and easy Strawberry Cake recipe brings joy with every bite. Its delightful strawberry flavor makes it perfect for any occasion. Plus, you can easily customize it by adding different fruits or toppings. Give it a try, and enjoy the deliciousness!