When it comes to desserts that evoke the essence of summer, few can rival the sheer delight of a perfectly baked strawberry cake. The vibrant red hue, the sweet aroma of fresh strawberries, and the irresistible taste of this classic treat make it a favorite for gatherings, celebrations, or simply indulging in a slice of pure happiness. If you’re on a quest to create the best strawberry cake ever, you’re in for a treat. In this article, we will guide you through a step-by-step recipe that will result in a cake so luscious and flavorful that it will have your taste buds dancing with joy.
Strawberries, with their natural sweetness and captivating fragrance, are the stars of this dessert. Whether you’re using fresh, ripe strawberries in season or opting for frozen ones during the off-season, this cake will always be a crowd-pleaser. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, allowing the strawberries to shine while complementing their flavor with a delicate crumb and a hint of vanilla.
So, let’s dive into the delightful world of strawberry cake making. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, you’ll find that creating this masterpiece is both rewarding and achievable. Prepare to impress your friends and family with The Best Strawberry Cake Ever.
Ingredients
1 (18.25-ounce) box white cake mix
1 (3-ounce) box strawberry flavored instant gelatin
1 (15-ounce) package frozen strawberries in syrup, thawed and pureed
4 large eggs
½ cup vegetable oil
¼ cup water
Strawberry cream cheese frosting, recipe follows
Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting
¼ cup butter softened
1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
1 (10-ounce) package frozen strawberries in syrup, thawed and pureed
½ teaspoon strawberry extract
7 cups confectioners’ sugar
Freshly sliced strawberries, for garnish, optional
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly grease 2 (9-inch) round cake pans.
In a large bowl, combine cake mix and gelatin. Add pureed strawberries, eggs, oil, and water; beat at medium speed with an electric mixer until smooth. Pour into prepared pans, and bake for 20 minutes, or until a wooden pick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let cool in pans for 10 minutes. Remove from pans, and cool completely on wire racks.
For the frosting:
In a large bowl, beat butter and cream cheese at medium speed with an electric mixer until creamy. Beat in ¼ cup of the strawberry puree and the strawberry extract. (The rest of the puree is leftover but can be used in smoothies or on ice cream for a delicious treat.) Gradually add confectioners’ sugar, beating until smooth.
Spread frosting in between layers and on top and sides of cake. Garnish with sliced fresh strawberries, if desired.
Pro Tips:
Fresh Strawberries: Use ripe, juicy strawberries for the best flavor. You can also reserve a few slices for garnishing the finished cake.
Strawberry Puree: To make strawberry puree, simply blend fresh strawberries until smooth.
Food Coloring: While optional, a bit of red food coloring can make your cake look as delightful as it tastes.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
Layering: For a stunning presentation, consider adding a layer of whipped cream and sliced strawberries between the cake layers.
Nutrition Facts:
While indulging in The Best Strawberry Cake Ever is pure bliss, it’s also good to know what you’re enjoying:
Serving Size: 1 slice (assuming the cake is sliced into 12 equal portions)
Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400
Fat: 15-20 grams
Carbohydrates: 50-60 grams
Sugar: 30-40 grams
Protein: 4-6 grams
Remember, these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes you use.
Conclusion:
This strawberry cake recipe is a testament to the sweet simplicity of using fresh strawberries in baking. With its moist and tender crumb, accented by the luscious strawberry flavor in both the cake and the frosting, it’s sure to become a staple in your dessert repertoire.
The Best Strawberry Cake Ever is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of the flavors of summer and the joy of indulging in a slice of heaven. Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or simply to satisfy your sweet cravings, this recipe will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the delightful journey of strawberry cake-making begin. Your taste buds will thank you!
HAVE YOU TRIED THIS RECIPES?!
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