Best Strawberry Cake Ever

This strawberry cake blends the convenience of a boxed cake mix with fresh and frozen strawberries to create a moist and flavorful dessert that feels homemade without the fuss. It comes together quickly and brings a bright fruity twist to a classic recipe that’s perfect for celebrations or any time you want a sweet treat.

I first made this during a summer family gathering and it was an instant hit, with everyone asking for the recipe. Since then, it has become my go-to cake for birthdays and potlucks.

Gather Your Ingredients

• One box white cake mix (18.25 ounces): this forms a light and fluffy base for the strawberry flavor
• Four large eggs: they help bind the ingredients together and add richness
• One box strawberry-flavored instant gelatin (3 ounces): adds concentrated strawberry flavor and color
• One package frozen strawberries in syrup, thawed and pureed (15 ounces): brings fresh fruity sweetness and moisture
• One quarter cup water: helps thin the batter for even baking
• One half cup vegetable oil: keeps the cake moist and tender
• Seven cups confectioners sugar: used in the frosting for its fine texture and sweetness
• One package cream cheese (8 ounces), softened: this adds creamy tanginess and smooth texture to the frosting
• One quarter cup softened butter: adds richness and helps with the frosting’s stability
• One package frozen strawberries in syrup, thawed and pureed (10 ounces): used again in the frosting for consistent strawberry flavor
• One half teaspoon strawberry extract: boosts the strawberry taste in the frosting

How to Make It

Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius. Grease two 9-inch round cake pans generously and lightly dust with flour to prevent sticking and ensure the cake releases easily.

Prepare the Batter:

In a large mixing bowl combine the white cake mix, strawberry gelatin, thawed and pureed frozen strawberries, eggs, vegetable oil, and water. Mix these ingredients well on medium speed until the batter is smooth with no lumps. This ensures even fermentation and results in a tender crumb.

Bake the Cake Layers:

Pour the prepared batter evenly into the two greased cake pans. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cakes. If it comes out clean the cakes are ready. Remove them from the oven and allow to cool completely.

Make the Frosting:

In a medium mixing bowl beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy. Add one quarter cup of the thawed and pureed strawberries along with the strawberry extract. Mix again until fully combined.

Add Confectioners Sugar:

Gradually add the confectioners sugar a little at a time while beating the frosting so it becomes smooth and fluffy without lumps. Continue mixing until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency.

Frost the Cake:

Once the cake layers are fully cooled, spread an even layer of strawberry cream cheese frosting on top of one layer. Place the second cake layer on top and cover it with the remaining frosting. Use a spatula to smooth the top and sides for a polished look.

Optional Garnish:

For extra flair and fresh flavor, garnish the frosted cake with thinly sliced fresh strawberries if desired. This adds texture and brightens up the presentation.

Serve and Enjoy:

Slice and serve this delightful strawberry cake to friends and family. Each bite will surprise you with a balance of moist cake and creamy strawberry frosting that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 3 to 4 days and stays moist thanks to the cream cheese frosting. Bring it to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

Flavor Boosters

This strawberry cake makes a lovely pairing with a cup of tea or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence. It also works well topped with whipped cream or accompanied by fresh berries on the side.

Serving Suggestions

This strawberry cake makes a lovely pairing with a cup of tea or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence. It also works well topped with whipped cream or accompanied by fresh berries on the side.

Creative Twists

In colder months try warming the cake slightly and serving it with spiced compote or a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce. For spring or summer enhance the freshness with a topping of mint leaves or edible flowers for a pretty presentation.

This strawberry cake delivers a perfect balance of ease and flavor, making it a dependable choice for any occasion.

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ What temperature should the cake be baked at?

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the cake for about 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

→ Can I use fresh strawberries instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh strawberries can be pureed as a substitute for frozen ones to maintain the fresh strawberry flavor.

→ How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?

Grease and flour the cake pans well before pouring in the batter to ensure easy removal after baking.

→ What is the best way to achieve a smooth frosting?

Beat softened butter and cream cheese until creamy, then gradually add confectioners' sugar and strawberry puree for a smooth consistency.

→ Can this cake be made ahead of time?

Yes, the cake layers and frosting can be prepared in advance and assembled just before serving to keep freshness.