Are you ready to bake the best ever strawberry cake? This recipe is bursting with fresh strawberry flavor, balanced by a soft, moist texture. Whether for a family celebration or just a weekend treat, this strawberry cake is sure to impress.
Why This Recipe is the Best
The magic of this cake comes from its combination of fresh strawberries and strawberry Jello, which both enhance the flavor and give the cake a bright pink hue. By starting with a boxed cake mix, you simplify the process, but the real strawberries make this recipe taste homemade. For those who love easy and delicious desserts, this cake rivals even the best Pumpkin Banana Loaf in flavor and ease of preparation.
This cake is versatile too! You can serve it as a sheet cake or get creative with layered versions to showcase your decorating skills. If you’re looking for more unique desserts, check out the Muddy Buddies recipe for another crowd-pleaser that’s simple to make.
Ingredients for the Best Strawberry Cake
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 box of white or vanilla cake mix
- 1 small box of strawberry Jello (3 oz)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup water
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup pureed fresh or frozen strawberries
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh strawberry slices
- Whipped cream or a drizzle of strawberry sauce
Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Best Ever Strawberry Cake
- Prepare the batter: In a large bowl, mix the cake mix, strawberry Jello, eggs, water, and oil. Gently fold in 1 cup of pureed strawberries.
- Bake the cake: Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch pan. Bake at 350°F for about 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool the cake: Allow it to cool completely before adding the frosting.
For more tips on layering desserts and creating fun textures, explore this guide to making layered cakes.
Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
To complement the rich strawberry flavor, here’s a simple cream cheese frosting:
Ingredients:
- 1 (8 oz) package of cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3-4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup pureed strawberries
Instructions:
- Mix the frosting: Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and mix until fluffy.
- Add strawberries: Fold in the pureed strawberries for a hint of fruit flavor.
- Frost the cake: Once the cake is completely cool, spread the frosting generously over the top.
To get the perfect frosting texture every time, check out this helpful guide on how to achieve the ideal cream cheese frosting.
Decorating and Presentation Tips
Make your strawberry cake stand out with these decorating ideas:
- Fresh strawberry slices: Arrange fresh slices on top for a vibrant look.
- Whipped cream accents: Pipe whipped cream along the edges for a touch of elegance.
- Strawberry drizzle: Top with a light drizzle of strawberry sauce for added sweetness and visual appeal.
For more decorating inspiration, take a look at this cake decorating ideas guide.
How to Keep the Cake Moist
A moist cake is essential for an enjoyable dessert. Here’s how to keep your strawberry cake from drying out:
- Pureed strawberries: Adding strawberries helps retain moisture while boosting flavor.
- Don’t overbake: Start checking the cake 5 minutes before the suggested bake time. A toothpick should come out clean when the cake is ready.
- Frost immediately: Applying frosting while the cake is just barely cool will lock in moisture.
Preventing Runny Frosting
Cream cheese frosting can become runny when too much liquid is added. Here’s how to fix it:
- Add more powdered sugar: If the frosting is too soft, add more powdered sugar to thicken it up.
- Chill before spreading: Let the frosting sit in the fridge for about 10 minutes before applying it to the cake.
- Limit the strawberry puree: Too much puree can thin the frosting, so add it gradually.
For more frosting tips, check out this guide to troubleshoot and perfect your frosting consistency.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries in this recipe?
Yes, frozen strawberries work well. Just be sure to thaw them fully and drain any excess water before pureeing.
How can I thicken my cream cheese frosting?
Add more powdered sugar or reduce the amount of strawberry puree to keep the frosting thick. Chilling it before use also helps.
Can I use a different cake mix flavor?
Vanilla or white cake mixes are ideal, but you can also use yellow or even pound cake mix for a richer texture.
How long does this cake stay fresh?
Stored in the fridge, this cake will stay fresh for up to 4 days. Let it come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Conclusion: The Perfect Strawberry Cake for Any Occasion
This best ever strawberry cake is packed with flavor and is easy to prepare. With the combination of real strawberries and strawberry Jello, it’s a dessert that stands out at any event. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just indulging in a sweet treat, this cake will leave a lasting impression!
For more recipes that balance flavor and ease, check out the Pumpkin Banana Loaf or get creative with Earl Grey Cookies from Recipes Alyssa.