Strawberry Cake

Strawberry Cake with Frosting 🍓

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 1 box white cake mix
• 1 (3-ounce) package strawberry Jell-O gelatin dessert
• 4 eggs
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 (10-ounce) package frozen strawberries, thawed (divided)

For the Frosting:

• 1 (1 lb) package powdered sugar
• 1/3 cup butter, softened
• Remaining half of the thawed strawberries from the cake mix

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. Prepare the Cake Batter:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix and the strawberry Jell-O gelatin dessert. Mix well.
   • Add the eggs and mix until combined.
   • Add the vegetable oil, water, and half of the thawed strawberries. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes until well combined.
3. Bake the Cake:
   • Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
   • Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan.
4. Prepare the Frosting:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine the powdered sugar, softened butter, and the remaining half of the thawed strawberries. Mix well until the frosting is smooth and creamy.
5. Frost the Cake:
   • Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the strawberry frosting evenly over the top of the cake.
6. Serve:
   • Slice the cake into pieces and serve. Enjoy the delightful strawberry flavor and the delicious aroma that fills your house!

Tips for the Perfect Strawberry Cake with Frosting:

1. Use Fresh Strawberries:
   • For a fresher flavor, consider using fresh strawberries instead of frozen. Just blend them to a puree before adding to the batter and frosting.
2. Room Temperature Ingredients:
   • Ensure all ingredients, especially the eggs and butter, are at room temperature. This helps them mix more evenly.
3. Do Not Overmix:
   • When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined to avoid a dense cake.
4. Add Vanilla Extract:
   • Adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the cake batter enhances the overall flavor.
5. Check Cake Doneness:
   • Ovens vary, so start checking your cake for doneness a few minutes before the recommended baking time.
6. Strawberry Pieces:
   • Add small pieces of fresh strawberries into the batter for a more textured cake.
7. Cooling Completely:
   • Make sure the cake is completely cooled before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
8. Chill the Cake:
   • Chill the cake in the refrigerator for an hour after frosting for cleaner slices and a more refreshing taste.
9. Layer Cake Variation:
   • For a layered cake, bake in two 9-inch round pans and double the frosting recipe.
10. Use a Food Processor:

• Use a food processor to puree the strawberries for a smoother consistency in the frosting.

11. Whipped Cream Frosting:

• For a lighter frosting, fold in some whipped cream to the strawberry frosting mixture.

12. Garnish with Fresh Strawberries:

• Garnish the frosted cake with fresh strawberry slices for an attractive presentation.

13. Make Ahead:

• You can make the cake a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Frost it on the day of serving.

14. Use High-Quality Jell-O:

• Use a high-quality strawberry Jell-O for the best flavor.

15. Adjust Sweetness:

• Taste the frosting before spreading it on the cake. Adjust the sweetness by adding more powdered sugar if needed.

16. Butter Consistency:

• Ensure the butter for the frosting is softened, not melted, for the right consistency.

17. Add Lemon Zest:

• Adding a bit of lemon zest to the frosting can enhance the strawberry flavor.

18. Prevent Sticking:

• Grease the baking pan well and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.

19. Sift Powdered Sugar:

• Sift the powdered sugar before adding it to the frosting to avoid lumps.

20. Serve with Ice Cream:

• Serve the strawberry cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.

FAQs about Strawberry Cake with Frosting:

1. Can I use fresh strawberries instead of frozen?
   • Yes, you can use fresh strawberries. Puree them before adding to the batter and frosting.
2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance and frost it on the day you plan to serve it.
3. How do I store leftover cake?
   • Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
4. Can I freeze the cake?
   • Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw in the refrigerator before frosting.
5. Can I use a different flavor of Jell-O?
   • Yes, you can experiment with different Jell-O flavors, but it will change the flavor profile of the cake.
6. How can I make the cake less sweet?
   • Reduce the amount of sugar in the frosting or use unsweetened strawberries.
7. Can I use a different type of frosting?
   • Yes, cream cheese frosting or whipped cream frosting also pairs well with this cake.
8. What can I use instead of vegetable oil?
   • You can use melted butter or a neutral-flavored oil like canola oil.
9. How can I ensure the cake is moist?
   • Do not overbake the cake and ensure it is stored properly to maintain moisture.
10. Can I add food coloring to the frosting?
    • Yes, you can add a few drops of red or pink food coloring to enhance the color of the frosting.
11. What can I use instead of a 9×13 inch pan?
    • You can use two 9-inch round pans for a layered cake.
12. Can I add nuts to the cake?
    • Yes, chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can be added to the batter for extra texture.
13. Can I use a different type of cake mix?
    • Yes, you can use a yellow cake mix, but it will slightly alter the flavor.
14. How can I make the cake gluten-free?
    • Use a gluten-free cake mix and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
15. Can I use margarine instead of butter for the frosting?
    • Yes, but butter provides a richer flavor.
16. How do I avoid lumps in the frosting?
    • Sift the powdered sugar before mixing it with the butter and strawberries.
17. Can I use homemade strawberry puree?
    • Yes, homemade strawberry puree can be used for a fresher flavor.
18. What can I serve with this cake?
    • Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
19. Can I add other fruits to the cake?
    • Yes, adding fruits like blueberries or raspberries can add variety.
20. How can I make the frosting stiffer?
    • Add more powdered sugar to achieve a thicker consistency for the frosting.

By following these tips and answers to common questions, you can perfect your Strawberry Cake with Frosting and enjoy a delicious, bakery-style treat right at home!