Strawberry Cake

Table of Contents

1. Ingredients For Strawberry Cake
2. Substitutions and Additions
3. How to Make Strawberry Cake
4. Why You'll Love This Recipe
5. Recipe FAQ
6. Serving FAQ
7. Storage FAQ
8. JUMP TO RECIPE

Strawberry cake is a moist, flavorful dessert packed with fresh strawberry goodness. The light texture and sweet flavor make it a crowd favorite. Whether for a birthday or just because, this cake is perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and irresistible, it's a treat everyone will love!

This recipe is simple to follow, with step-by-step photos and directions guiding you through each step. We’ve also included pro tips and tricks to ensure perfect results every time. Plus, check out our frequently asked questions for helpful answers!

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This strawberry layer cake is incredibly easy to make and only takes about 45 minutes from start to finish. The moist texture and fresh strawberry flavor make it perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or casual family gatherings.

What makes this recipe so special is the light, fluffy cake paired with a rich, sweet frosting. Whether you're a baking pro or just starting, this strawberry cake is sure to impress!

What you'll need to make this easy Strawberry Cake recipe:

For The Cake:

• 3 cups of strawberries, rinsed and chopped or pureed into small pieces
• 1 package of white cake mix
• 3-ounce package of strawberry gelatin
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup of water
• ½ cup of vegetable oil

For The Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting:

• ½ cup of salted butter, softened
• 2 (8-ounce) packages of cream cheese, softened
• 1 teaspoon of strawberry extract, optional
• 5 cups of powdered sugar
• ¼ cup of heavy cream
• Pink food coloring, optional

Substitutions and Additions

Substituting ingredients and adding flavorful extras is simple and can make your homemade cake uniquely yours. Here are some top substitutions and additions:

Add Lemon Zest: For a refreshing twist, add lemon zest to the frosting for a light, citrusy flavor.

Substitute Milk: Swap regular milk for buttermilk to create a tangy, richer flavor in the cake.

Substitute Flour: Use almond flour for a gluten-free version of this delicious strawberry cake.

Follow along with our step-by-step instructions and pictures to make this delicious and easy recipe. Be sure to check out the tips and tricks below. Let’s get started and bake this mouthwatering treat!

FIRST STEP: In a 2-quart saucepan, heat 3 cups of chopped strawberries over medium heat. 

Bring the strawberry mixture to a boil and then continue simmering, stirring frequently, until nearly all of the liquid has evaporated.

SECOND STEP: Use a potato masher to break down strawberries as they cook, if you’ve added strawberry pieces.

This process takes approximately 20 minutes. The 3 cups of strawberries should be reduced to about ¾ cup.

THIRD STEP: Remove the strawberry reduction from the heat and cool to room temperature in the refrigerator before adding it to the batter.

This will take approximately 1 hour.

FOURTH STEP: In a large bowl with a hand mixer, combine the cake mix, strawberry gelatin, eggs, water, and oil.

FIFTH STEP: Mix in ½ cup of the cooled strawberry puree reduction until combined.

SIXTH STEP: Divide batter between two 8-inch round cake pans lined on the bottom with parchment paper and spray the sides with a non-stick cooking spray.

SEVENTH STEP: In an oven preheated to 350°F (325°F for dark/non-stick pans), bake the cake for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center of the cake comes out clean.

EIGHTH STEP: Remove the pans and cool the baked cake for 10 minutes. Gently remove the cakes from the pans to cooling racks and cool them completely.

To Make The Strawberry Icing

NINTH STEP: Beat together the butter, softened cream cheese, and strawberry extract until combined.

TENTH STEP: Beat in 5 cups of powdered sugar, gradually adding a cup at a time.

ELEVENTH STEP: Beat in the remaining ¼ cup of strawberry puree reduction.

TWELFTH STEP: Add 1 tablespoon of heavy cream at a time until the desired consistency of frosting is achieved.

THIRTEENTH STEP: Add pink food coloring to tint frosting to the desired color (optional). 

To Assemble the Layers

FIFTEENTH STEP: Place the first cake layer top-side up onto the serving platter.

SIXTEENTH STEP: Mound about ½ cup of frosting onto the cake layer and spread it smoothly to the edges using an offset or rubber spatula.

SEVENTEENTH STEP: Place the second cake layer top-side down on top of the filling. Press down gently to seal the layers together.

EIGHTEENTH STEP: Mound another pile of frosting on top of the cake and use a spatula to spread it across the top and down the sides until the cake is fully frosted.

Fresh strawberry cake with strawberry cream cheese frosting is perfect for so many occasions. Whether it’s for a birthday or a simple family gathering, this cake is sure to impress. Here are some great ways to serve it:

• Perfect for birthdays and special occasions: This cake is a showstopper for birthday parties and holiday celebrations like Valentines Day. The vibrant color and sweet flavor make it a crowd favorite. Pair it with a refreshing cinnamon toast crunch shot or a creamy eggnog cocktail for a festive treat.
• Ideal for spring and summer gatherings: Serve this cake during warm weather for a refreshing, fruity dessert. Its light texture and berry flavor make it perfect for picnics or barbecues. Complement it with a chilled glass of fall sangria or a pumpkin soup to balance the flavors.
• Kids will love this treat: Kids will adore this sweet and colorful strawberry cake. Its easy-to-eat slices are great for family dinners or school parties. Serve it with mini peanut butter cheesecakes or brownie bites for a variety of treats they’ll enjoy.

This is hands down the best strawberry cake recipe. From its fresh flavor to its moist texture, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

• A Burst of Freshness: This recipe perfectly balances the sweet, natural taste of fresh strawberries with a soft, fluffy cake texture. Each bite brings a refreshing burst of flavor. The cake’s vibrant pink color adds a fun and festive touch to any occasion.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: This recipe is ideal for birthdays, holidays, or casual gatherings. It brings joy to both kids and adults alike. Whether it's a special treat or a casual dessert, this cake never fails to impress.
• Simple Yet Irresistible: This strawberry layer cake recipe is easy to follow, and the result is always amazing. The combination of moist cake and creamy frosting guarantees a satisfying dessert. You’ll find yourself making this recipe over and over again.

Homemade strawberry cake is a sweet, irresistible favorite that adds a special touch to any celebration.

Can I use frozen strawberries in this recipe?
Fresh strawberries give the best flavor, but frozen strawberries can work. Just make sure to thaw and drain them first.

How long does the strawberry cake need to bake?
The cake should bake for about thirty to thirty-five minutes. Make sure to check with a toothpick to confirm it's done.

Can I make this strawberry cake without frosting?
Yes, you can enjoy this cake without frosting for a lighter option. It’s still delicious on its own!

How do I know when the strawberry cake is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready to be removed from the oven.

What’s the best way to serve strawberry cake at a party?
Cut the cake into small slices for easy serving. Arrange it on a beautiful platter to make it more inviting.

Can I serve strawberry cake for a family dinner?
Absolutely! This strawberry cake is perfect for family dinners. Its fresh, fruity flavor will satisfy everyone's sweet tooth.

Is strawberry cake suitable for birthdays or celebrations?
Yes, it’s perfect for birthdays or any special celebration. The bright color and sweet flavor make it a hit with guests.

Can kids enjoy strawberry cake?
Definitely! Strawberry cake is a kid-friendly dessert. Its sweet flavor and soft texture make it a favorite among children.

Follow the tips below for the best way to store strawberry cake. From making ahead to serving, we’ve got you covered on keeping it fresh and delicious!

Can I make strawberry cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cake a day ahead. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

How should I store leftover strawberry cake?
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two to three days.

Can I freeze strawberry cake?
While strawberry cake is best fresh, you can freeze it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in a freezer-safe container.

How do I thaw and reheat frozen strawberry cake?
Thaw the cake overnight in the fridge. Reheat it gently in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.