Looking for a delicious dessert idea? Try our Strawberry Cake recipe! Moist layers of strawberry-infused cake topped with creamy strawberry cream cheese frosting. Perfect for birthdays, parties, or any occasion.
Ingredients to Gather
- 1 18.25-ounce box white cake mix
- 1 3-ounce box strawberry-flavored instant gelatin
- 1 15-ounce package frozen strawberries in syrup, thawed and pureed
- 4 large eggs
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- ¼ cup water
- For the Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting:
- ¼ cup butter, softened
- 1 8-ounce package cream cheese, softened
- 1 10-ounce package frozen strawberries in syrup, thawed and pureed
- ½ teaspoon strawberry extract
- 7 cups confectioners’ sugar
- Freshly sliced strawberries for garnish (optional)
Instructions to Follow
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to a cozy 350 degrees F and lightly grease 2 (9-inch) round cake pans. This ensures that your cakes will bake evenly and release easily from the pans.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a large bowl, combine the white cake mix and strawberry-flavored gelatin. Then, add in the pureed strawberries, eggs, vegetable oil, and water. Mix everything together at medium speed with an electric mixer until the batter is smooth and well-combined.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and pop them into the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until a wooden pick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean. This step fills your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of fresh strawberries.
Step 4: Make the Frosting
While the cakes are cooling, it’s time to whip up the luscious strawberry cream cheese frosting. In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until creamy. Then, mix in a quarter cup of the strawberry puree and the strawberry extract. Gradually add in the confectioners’ sugar, beating until the frosting is smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Assemble and Decorate
Once the cakes have cooled completely, carefully remove them from the pans and place them on wire racks. Spread a generous layer of frosting between the layers and over the top and sides of the cake. For an extra touch of elegance, garnish the cake with freshly sliced strawberries.
FAQs
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of frozen?
- Absolutely! Fresh strawberries can be used for both the cake and the frosting, though you may need to adjust the amount of puree depending on their juiciness.
Can I make the cake layers ahead of time?
- Yes, you can bake the cake layers in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or in the freezer for longer storage. Just be sure to thaw them before frosting.
Can I use a different type of frosting?
- While the strawberry cream cheese frosting complements the cake beautifully, you can certainly use a different frosting if desired. Vanilla buttercream or whipped cream would also be delicious options.
How should I store leftovers?
- Leftover cake can be stored in the refrigerator, covered, for up to five days. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Can I make cupcakes instead of a layer cake?
- Absolutely! Simply divide the batter evenly among lined muffin cups and adjust the baking time accordingly. Bake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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