Strawberry Cake

Quick and easy Strawberry Cake is a delightful dessert that combines a boxed cake mix with fresh strawberries for a treat bursting with flavor. This versatile cake is perfect for birthdays, gatherings, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. The unique combination of ingredients makes it both simple to prepare and incredibly tasty.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Using a boxed cake mix means you can whip up this dessert in no time, making it ideal for busy days.
• Bursting with Flavor: The addition of strawberries enhances the cake’s sweetness, providing a refreshing fruitiness that everyone will love.
• Versatile Serving Options: Whether served at a birthday party or as an afternoon snack, this cake fits any occasion perfectly.
• Customizable: Feel free to add whipped cream or extra fruit toppings to make it even more special.
• Perfectly Moist Texture: The combination of frozen strawberries and egg whites ensures a moist and tender crumb.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your scrumptious Strawberry Cake, gather the essential tools that will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Rubber spatula
• 9-inch round pans
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all your ingredients easily without spilling.
• Electric mixer: This tool helps to blend your batter thoroughly, ensuring a light and airy cake.
• Rubber spatula: Perfect for scraping down the sides of the bowl to incorporate every bit of your mixture.

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 strawberry Jell-O mix until well mixed. Add egg whites and canola oil. Beat until everything is blended smoothly.

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 into the batter. Mix until combined.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into prepared pans. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow cakes to cool for about 10 minutes before transferring them to 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 of the round cakes on a serving platter. Spread half of the icing over it, then top with the second round cake. Use the remaining frosting to cover the outside of your beautiful Strawberry Cake.

Enjoy this delightful treat, perfect for sharing!

How to Serve Strawberry Cake

Strawberry Cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to impress guests or simply enjoy a sweet treat, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

Classic Slice

• Serve a generous slice of Strawberry Cake on its own to appreciate its rich flavor and fluffy texture.

With Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top for extra creaminess and a light contrast to the cake’s sweetness.

A La Mode

• Top each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to create a delicious combination of warm cake and cold ice cream.

Fresh Strawberries

• Garnish with fresh strawberries for added freshness and an eye-catching presentation.

Layered Dessert Cups

• Crumble pieces of Strawberry Cake into individual cups, layer with whipped cream, and top with strawberries for a fun twist.

Tea Time Treat

• Serve small slices of Strawberry Cake alongside tea or coffee for an afternoon treat that pairs beautifully with hot beverages.

How to Perfect Strawberry Cake

Creating the perfect Strawberry Cake involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality cake mix and fresh strawberries for the best flavor in your cake.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix your batter until just combined to ensure a light and airy texture in your cake layers.

• Proper Cooling: Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting. This prevents melting and ensures the frosting stays intact.

• Experiment with Frosting: Feel free to add more strawberries or even a splash of lemon juice to your frosting for an extra zing.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Strawberry Cake can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing medley of seasonal fruits complements the sweetness of the cake beautifully.

2. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt, granola, and fresh berries for a nutritious side that adds texture and flavor contrast.

3. Cheese Platter
   A selection of soft cheeses pairs well with the sweetness, creating an interesting flavor balance.

4. Nut Mix
   A simple mix of nuts provides a crunchy contrast that can enhance every bite of cake.

5. Herbal Tea
   Serve with calming herbal tea for a soothing beverage option that pairs nicely after dessert.

6. Ice Cream Sundae Bar
   Set up a sundae bar where guests can create their own ice cream sundaes alongside the Strawberry Cake for added fun!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a delicious Strawberry Cake can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can affect your results. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the greasing step: Failing to grease and flour your cake pans can result in the cake sticking. Always prepare your pans to ensure easy release.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Incorrect measurements can lead to a dense or dry cake. Use measuring cups and spoons for precise amounts.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too long can develop gluten, making the cake tough. Mix just until combined for a light texture.
• Ignoring cooling time: Removing the cake from pans too early may cause it to break apart. Allow it to cool for at least 10 minutes before transferring it.
• Not tasting the frosting: The balance of sweetness is crucial. Taste the frosting as you go and adjust accordingly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Strawberry Cake in an airtight container.
• It will last in the fridge for up to 3-5 days.

Freezing Strawberry Cake

• Wrap individual slices or whole cakes tightly in plastic wrap, then foil.
• Frozen Strawberry Cake can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Strawberry Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place on a non-stick skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

This section addresses common inquiries about making Strawberry Cake.

How do I make Strawberry Cake from scratch?

To make Strawberry Cake from scratch, use fresh strawberries blended into a homemade vanilla batter without relying on boxed mixes.

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh strawberries can be used! Just mash them thoroughly and adjust any liquid content as needed.

What can I substitute for powdered sugar in the frosting?

You can substitute powdered sugar with coconut sugar or homemade powdered sugar made by blending granulated sugar until fine.

How long does Strawberry Cake last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, Strawberry Cake will last about 3-5 days.

Can I add other fruits to my Strawberry Cake?

Absolutely! You can mix in other fruits like raspberries or blueberries for added flavor and color.

Final Thoughts

This quick and easy Strawberry Cake is not only flavorful but also versatile enough for various occasions. Feel free to customize it with different fruits or flavorings. Give this delightful dessert a try; it’s sure to impress!