Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re searching for a dessert that captures the essence of summer in every bite, this strawberry cake is your answer. It’s a moist, flavorful cake bursting with the natural sweetness of strawberries, complemented by a rich cream cheese frosting. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this cake is sure to impress.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the cake:

1 box white cake mix (18.25 ounces)
4 large eggs
1 box strawberry-flavored instant gelatin (3 ounces)
1 package frozen strawberries in syrup, thawed and pureed (15 ounces)
1/4 cup water
1/2 cup vegetable oil

For the frosting:

7 cups confectioners’ sugar
1 package cream cheese (8 ounces), softened
1/4 cup softened butter
1 package frozen strawberries in syrup, thawed and pureed (10 ounces)
1/2 teaspoon strawberry extract

Directions

Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
Mix the Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, strawberry gelatin, pureed strawberries, eggs, oil, and water. Mix until well combined.
Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for approximately 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Prepare the Frosting: In a separate bowl, beat together the butter and cream cheese until smooth. Blend in the strawberry puree and extract. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar, mixing until creamy and smooth.
Frost the Cakes: Once the cakes have cooled, spread the strawberry cream cheese frosting over them generously.
Garnish (Optional): For an extra touch of elegance, garnish your cake with fresh strawberries.
Serve and Enjoy: Slice and serve this divine creation to your eager guests or treat yourself to a heavenly dessert experience.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutesAllrecipes+2Allrecipes+2CookiesPedia+2

Variations

Chocolate Covered Strawberries Cake: For a decadent twist, add a layer of melted chocolate ganache between the cake layers before frosting with the strawberry cream cheese frosting.
Lemon Strawberry Cake: Incorporate lemon zest into the cake batter and add a few drops of lemon juice to the frosting for a refreshing citrus flavor.
Strawberry Shortcake Cake: Replace the frosting with whipped cream and top with fresh sliced strawberries for a lighter, more traditional shortcake experience.
Strawberry Almond Cake: Add a teaspoon of almond extract to the cake batter and frosting for a nutty undertone that complements the strawberries.
Vegan Strawberry Cake: Substitute the eggs with flax eggs and use a plant-based cream cheese alternative to make this cake vegan-friendly.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store any leftover strawberry cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, the cake will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: If you want to extend the shelf life of your strawberry cake, consider freezing it. Wrap individual slices or the entire cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. Frozen strawberry cake can last for up to 2-3 months.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy frozen strawberry cake, transfer it to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw overnight. Alternatively, you can thaw individual slices at room temperature for quicker thawing.
Serving Fresh: For the best taste and texture, serve strawberry cake fresh within a few days of baking. While it can be stored for longer periods, the flavors and moisture may diminish over time.

FAQs

How can I make the cake more moist?

Adding sour cream or buttermilk to the batter can enhance the moisture and richness of the cake.

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh strawberries can be used. However, you may need to cook them down with sugar to achieve a similar consistency to the frozen strawberries in syrup.

Is it necessary to use strawberry extract?

Strawberry extract enhances the flavor, but if you prefer a more subtle taste, you can omit it.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, by using a gluten-free cake mix and ensuring all other ingredients are gluten-free, you can make this cake suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

How can I prevent the cake layers from sticking to the pans?

Greasing and flouring the pans thoroughly or using parchment paper can help prevent sticking.

Can I make the frosting ahead of time?

Yes, the frosting can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before using.

How do I know when the cake is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, the cake is done.

Can I use a different flavor of gelatin?

While strawberry gelatin is recommended for flavor consistency, other fruit-flavored gelatin can be used for a different taste profile.

How should I serve the cake?

The cake can be served at room temperature or slightly chilled. Pairing it with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream can add an extra layer of indulgence.

Can I decorate the cake with other fruits?

Absolutely! Adding sliced kiwis, blueberries, or raspberries can enhance the visual appeal and flavor of the cake.

Conclusion

This strawberry cake is more than just a dessert; it’s an experience that brings the flavors of summer to your table year-round. With its moist texture, vibrant color, and delightful taste, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding. So, gather your ingredients and treat yourself and your loved ones to a slice of this delectable strawberry cake.