Strawberry Cake

Quick and easy Strawberry Cake is a delightful treat that starts with a boxed mix, transforming it into a cake bursting with strawberry flavor. Perfect for birthdays, picnics, or just a sweet indulgence, this recipe is sure to impress. Its light texture and fruity essence make it an ideal dessert for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to Make: With only a few ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can whip up this cake in no time.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of fresh strawberries and strawberry Jell-O gives this cake its deliciously fruity taste.
• Versatile for Occasions: Whether it’s a birthday party or a casual family dinner, this Strawberry Cake fits perfectly on any dessert table.
• Easily Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or fillings to create your own unique twist on this classic cake.
• Kid-Friendly: This recipe is fun and appealing to children, making it an excellent choice for baking together as a family.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the deliciousness of Strawberry Cake, gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when blending ingredients for the cake batter and frosting.
• Cooling rack: Ensures even cooling of the cakes, preventing sogginess and allowing for easier frosting.

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 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 aside.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

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

Step 3: Prepare Strawberries

In a small bowl or food processor, mash the thawed strawberries. Set aside 3 tablespoons for icing. Add water along with the remaining mashed strawberries to the batter and mix well. Pour the batter into prepared pans.

Step 4: Bake the Cakes

Place the pans in your preheated oven. Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring them onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Make the Frosting

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

Step 6: Assemble Your Cake

Once cooled, place one of the round cakes on a serving platter. Spread half of the icing over this layer, then top it with the second round cake. Finish by frosting the outside of the entire cake with any remaining icing.

Enjoy your homemade Strawberry Cake!

How to Serve Strawberry Cake

Strawberry Cake is a delightful dessert that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavor and presentation. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy family dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your cake experience.

Classic Slice

• Serve a simple slice of Strawberry Cake on a dessert plate, allowing the vibrant colors and textures to shine through.

With Fresh Berries

• Top each slice with fresh strawberries or mixed berries for an extra burst of flavor and a beautiful presentation.

A Scoop of Ice Cream

• Pair your cake with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream. The creamy texture complements the soft cake perfectly.

Drizzle of Whipped Cream

• Add a generous drizzle of homemade whipped cream on top for added richness and creaminess.

Hot Beverage Pairing

• Serve with a cup of coffee or tea to balance the sweetness and make for a comforting dessert experience.

Layered Parfait

• Crumble leftover Strawberry Cake and layer it with yogurt and additional strawberries in a glass for an eye-catching parfait.

How to Perfect Strawberry Cake

Perfecting your Strawberry Cake involves attention to detail and some helpful tips. Here are essential pointers to ensure your cake turns out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for the freshest strawberries when making this cake. They provide the best flavor and moisture.

• Beat Egg Whites Separately: For an airy texture, beat egg whites separately before adding them to the batter. This helps create a light, fluffy cake.

• Cool Completely: Ensure that your cakes cool completely before frosting. This prevents the icing from melting and maintains its structure.

• Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to add lemon zest or vanilla extract for additional depth in flavor; these enhance the overall taste profile.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Cake

Serving Strawberry Cake with complementary side dishes can take your dessert table to the next level. Here are some excellent side dish options:

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits that balances the sweetness of the cake.
2. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can provide contrast and complexity, pairing well with the sweet notes of strawberry.
3. Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: These salty-sweet snacks offer crunchiness that contrasts nicely with the soft texture of the cake.
4. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad dressed with vinaigrette adds freshness and cuts through the richness of the cake.
5. Granola Bars: Homemade granola bars can serve as an easy grab-and-go option that complements any sweet dessert.
6. Pudding Cups: Creamy pudding cups, especially vanilla or chocolate, provide another layer of indulgence alongside your cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Strawberry Cake, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out perfectly.

• Incorrect mixing: Failing to mix the cake and Jell-O thoroughly can lead to uneven flavor. Make sure these two ingredients are well combined before adding the egg whites and oil.

• Skipping the cooling time: Removing the cake from pans too soon can cause it to break apart. Allow the cakes to cool for at least 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

• Using cold ingredients: Cold eggs and butter can affect the texture of your batter. Always bring your ingredients to room temperature before mixing for a smoother consistency.

• Overbaking: Leaving the cakes in the oven for too long will dry them out. Keep an eye on your cakes and check for doneness with a toothpick after 20 minutes.

• Not measuring ingredients correctly: Using incorrect measurements can alter the final product. For best results, use dry measuring cups for solids and liquid measuring cups for liquids.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Strawberry Cake

• Wrap individual slices or whole cakes tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Strawberry Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place slices on a baking sheet, and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat slices on medium power for about 15-30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid, and warm gently for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Strawberry Cake that you might find helpful.

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh strawberries can be used in place of frozen ones. Just make sure they are well washed and hulled.

How do I make my Strawberry Cake more moist?

Adding a bit more oil or incorporating yogurt into the batter can enhance moisture levels.

What can I substitute for frosting?

A whipped cream made with plant-based cream is a great alternative if you’re looking for something lighter than traditional frosting.

How do I decorate my Strawberry Cake?

You can top it with additional fresh strawberries or use edible flowers to give it a beautiful presentation.

Is this Strawberry Cake suitable for special occasions?

Absolutely! This cake is perfect for birthdays, picnics, or any celebration where you want a sweet treat.

Final Thoughts

This quick and easy Strawberry Cake is not just delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding other fruits or experimenting with different frosting flavors. Try this delightful recipe today and impress your family and friends!