Best Ever Strawberry Cake: A Slice of Bliss
Introduction:
Strawberries have always been synonymous with summer, evoking memories of warm afternoons spent picking berries, their sweet fragrance lingering in the air. This Best Ever Strawberry Cake brings those memories to life in every bite. Inspired by traditional Southern baking, this recipe marries the freshness of strawberries with a moist, fluffy cake base and a luscious cream cheese icing. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is sure to be a hit at family gatherings, birthdays, or simply as a delightful treat to enjoy with a cup of tea. Dive into this recipe and discover the secret to achieving a cake that is as beautiful as it is delicious.
Ingredients Overview
Cake:
- 1 box white cake mix: This provides a quick and reliable base for the cake, ensuring it is light and fluffy.
- 3 tbsp plain flour: Enhances the structure of the cake, giving it a bit more density.
- 1 (3 oz) box strawberry Jello: Infuses the cake with a vibrant strawberry flavor and color.
- 1/2 cup water: Keeps the batter moist.
- 3/4 cup canola oil: Adds richness and helps to keep the cake tender.
- 2 cups fresh or frozen pureed strawberries: Divided, with one cup for the batter and one cup for the icing, adding a natural strawberry flavor and beautiful color.
- 4 eggs: Provide structure and richness to the cake.
Cream Cheese Icing:
- 1 stick butter, softened: Creates a creamy base for the icing.
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened: Adds tanginess and creaminess.
- 1 cup frozen or fresh pureed strawberries: Infuses the icing with strawberry flavor and color.
- 3 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens the icing to perfection.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Prepare the Cake Batter:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C): Ensure your oven is ready for baking.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the white cake mix, plain flour, and strawberry Jello until well combined.
- Add wet ingredients: Pour in the water and canola oil. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure a smooth and airy batter.
- Incorporate strawberries: Fold in one cup of pureed strawberries, mixing until evenly distributed.
- Beat the batter: Use an electric mixer to beat the batter for 2 minutes on medium speed, ensuring everything is well combined and the batter is smooth.
- Prepare the baking pan: Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent the cake from sticking.
- Pour and bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Make the Cream Cheese Icing:
- Cream the butter and cream cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until light and fluffy.
- Add strawberries and sugar: Gradually add the pureed strawberries and powdered sugar, beating until the icing is smooth and creamy.
- Cool and ice the cake: Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the cream cheese icing evenly over the top. Garnish with fresh strawberries or additional pureed strawberries if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different type of oil?
Yes, you can use vegetable oil or even melted coconut oil as a substitute for canola oil.
2. Can I use fresh strawberries instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh strawberries can be used and will provide a more intense flavor.
3. How do I store this cake?
The cake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.
4. Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes, this cake can be made a day ahead. Just keep it refrigerated and add the icing just before serving.
5. Can I use a different flavor of Jello?
While strawberry Jello complements the cake best, you can experiment with other flavors like raspberry.
6. What can I use instead of cream cheese for the icing?
You can use mascarpone cheese or a simple buttercream icing as an alternative.
7. Can I add nuts to the cake batter?
Yes, chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts can be added for extra texture.
8. Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, the cake can be frozen without the icing for up to three months. Thaw and ice before serving.
9. Can I make cupcakes with this recipe?
Certainly! Just adjust the baking time to about 20-25 minutes.
10. Is there a gluten-free version of this cake?
You can use a gluten-free cake mix and flour to make this recipe gluten-free.
11. Can I reduce the sugar in the icing?
Yes, you can reduce the powdered sugar, but it might affect the texture of the icing.
12. Can I add food coloring to enhance the pink color?
Yes, a few drops of red food coloring can be added to intensify the pink hue.
13. Can I use a different fruit puree?
Yes, you can use raspberry, blueberry, or even peach puree for a different flavor.
14. Can I use a bundt pan instead of a 9×13 pan?
Yes, just ensure the bundt pan is well greased and floured, and adjust the baking time accordingly.
15. Can I make this cake egg-free?
Yes, you can use egg substitutes like flax eggs or commercial egg replacers.
16. How can I make the cake more moist?
Adding a tablespoon of sour cream or yogurt can enhance the moisture of the cake.
17. Can I add chocolate chips to the batter?
Yes, adding white or dark chocolate chips can create a delicious twist.
18. How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?
Ensure the pan is well greased and floured, or use parchment paper for extra protection.
19. Can I use less oil in the recipe?
You can reduce the oil slightly, but it might affect the cake’s moistness.
20. How can I make the icing less sweet?
Adding a pinch of salt or a bit more cream cheese can balance the sweetness.
Helpful Tips
1. Use room temperature ingredients: This helps the batter mix more evenly.
2. Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can make the cake dense and tough.
3. Puree the strawberries finely: This ensures an even distribution of strawberry flavor.
4. Test for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean.
5. Let the cake cool completely: This prevents the icing from melting.
6. Use fresh strawberries for garnish: Adds a fresh, vibrant touch to the cake.
7. Sift powdered sugar for the icing: Ensures a smooth and lump-free icing.
8. Chill the icing slightly: This makes it easier to spread on the cake.
9. Use an offset spatula: Helps to spread the icing evenly.
10. Serve at room temperature: Brings out the best flavor and texture.
11. Experiment with flavors: Try adding a splash of vanilla or almond extract.
12. Decorate creatively: Use edible flowers or colorful sprinkles.
13. Add a layer of jam: Spread a thin layer of strawberry jam between the cake and icing for extra flavor.
14. Use high-quality strawberries: They provide the best flavor and color.
15. Refrigerate the cake for cleaner slices: Chilling the cake slightly makes it easier to cut.
16. Adjust sweetness to taste: Taste the batter and icing to adjust the sweetness as needed.
17. Use a cake leveler: For even layers if you decide to slice the cake into multiple layers.
18. Keep it simple: Sometimes, less is more when it comes to decorating.
19. Share the love: This cake makes a great gift for friends and family.
20. Enjoy the process: Baking should be fun and relaxing!
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate leftovers: Keep the cake in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Cover with plastic wrap: This prevents the cake from drying out.
- Store in a cool place: Avoid keeping the cake in warm areas.
- Freeze for longer storage: Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.
- Thaw properly: Allow frozen cake to thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
- Keep icing separate: If freezing, freeze the cake and icing separately.
- Use airtight containers: Prevents the cake from absorbing fridge odors.
- Label and date: Helps keep track of storage time.
- Slice before freezing: Makes it easier to thaw individual pieces.
- Avoid direct sunlight: Store the cake away from direct light to maintain its color and flavor.
Recipe Secrets
- Use ripe strawberries: The ripest berries offer the best flavor.
- Add a hint of lemon: A teaspoon of lemon zest brightens the strawberry flavor.
- Whip the icing well: Ensures a light and fluffy texture.
- Chill the mixing bowl: Helps the cream cheese icing set better.
- Add a touch of salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the cake and icing.
- Use cake flour: For an even lighter cake texture.
- Incorporate gelatin properly: Ensures it blends well into the batter.
- Don’t rush the cooling process: Patience pays off for a perfectly iced cake.
- Experiment with extracts: Almond or vanilla extract can add a unique twist.
- Use fresh eggs: They provide better structure and rise to the cake.
- Puree strawberries finely: Ensures smooth texture in both cake and icing.
- Use high-quality butter: Impacts the richness of the icing.
- Garnish creatively: Fresh mint leaves or edible flowers make beautiful decorations.
- Balance the sweetness: Adjust icing sweetness to your preference.
- Test your oven: Ensure your oven is at the correct temperature.
- Mix gradually: Incorporate ingredients slowly for a smoother batter.
- Try different pans: Bundt or layered cake pans offer variety.
- Infuse with flavors: Strawberry essence can enhance the overall taste.
- Stay organized: Prepare all ingredients before starting.
- Enjoy baking: Have fun and enjoy the process of creating this delicious cake!
This Best Ever Strawberry Cake is a true celebration of strawberry flavor, perfect for delighting your loved ones and creating lasting memories. Happy baking!
