BEST EVER STRAWBERRY CAKE - Easy Recipes Life

Welcome to our delightful dessert recipes section! Today, we’re sharing a show-stopping recipe for the Best Ever Strawberry Cake. This cake is incredibly moist and bursting with strawberry flavor, making it perfect for any celebration or a special treat. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

For the Cake:

1 box white cake mix
3 tbsp plain flour
1 (3 oz) box strawberry Jello
1/2 cup water
3/4 cup oil (canola oil recommended)
2 cups fresh or frozen pureed strawberries (divided, one cup for cake and one cup for icing)
4 eggs

For the Icing:

1 cup pureed strawberries (reserved from above)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, plain flour, and strawberry Jello. Mix until well combined.
Add Wet Ingredients: Add the water, canola oil, 1 cup of pureed strawberries, and eggs to the dry ingredients. Mix with an electric mixer on low speed for 30 seconds, then increase to medium speed and beat for 2 minutes until well combined and smooth.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

Pour Batter into Pans: Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool: Remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, transfer the cakes to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Prepare the Strawberry Icing

Cream Butter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until creamy.
Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Add Strawberries and Vanilla: Add the remaining 1 cup of pureed strawberries and the vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed until the icing is smooth and fluffy.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

Layer the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of strawberry icing on top.
Add Second Layer: Place the second cake layer on top of the first and spread icing over the top and sides of the cake.
Decorate: Decorate the cake with fresh strawberries if desired.

Step 5: Serve

Serve and Enjoy: Slice the cake and serve. Enjoy your Best Ever Strawberry Cake!

Cooking Notes and Tips

Strawberries: Fresh strawberries are best for this recipe, but frozen strawberries will work too. Make sure to thaw and drain them before pureeing.
Butter: Ensure the butter is softened before making the icing for a smooth and creamy texture.
Decoration: Garnish with fresh strawberries, edible flowers, or a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.

Variations

Chocolate Strawberry Cake

Add 1/2 cup of cocoa powder to the cake batter for a chocolate twist. Use chocolate icing or a mix of chocolate and strawberry icing for a decadent treat.

Lemon Strawberry Cake

Add 2 tablespoons of lemon zest to the cake batter and use lemon juice instead of water for a refreshing citrus flavor. Top with lemon zest in the icing for an extra zing.

Strawberry Shortcake

Bake the cake in a single layer and top with a layer of fresh whipped cream and sliced strawberries for a classic strawberry shortcake.

Vegan Strawberry Cake

Use a vegan cake mix and replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tbsp water per egg) and use a plant-based butter and powdered sugar for the icing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day in advance. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store at room temperature. Frost the cake on the day you plan to serve it.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.

Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cake layers. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before frosting and serving.

What can I serve with this cake?

Serve the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special treat.

How can I make the cake healthier?

Use a sugar substitute suitable for baking, reduce the amount of oil, and use whole wheat flour instead of plain flour to make the cake healthier.

The Best Ever Strawberry Cake is a delightful and flavorful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its moist texture and rich strawberry flavor, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious cake with your loved ones!