The Heavenly Strawberry Cake is a sublime creation that captures the essence of strawberries in a fluffy, moist cake form, adorned with a rich strawberry cream cheese frosting. This cake combines the ease of a boxed cake mix with the fresh, vibrant flavor of strawberries, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether it's a birthday, an anniversary, or just a casual weekend treat, this strawberry cake is sure to delight anyone who takes a bite.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 box white cake mix (18.25 ounces)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 box strawberry-flavored instant gelatin (3 ounces)
- 1 package frozen strawberries in syrup, thawed and pureed (15 ounces)
- ¼ cup water
- ½ cup vegetable oil
For the Frosting:
- 7 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 1 package cream cheese (8 ounces), softened
- ¼ cup softened butter
- 1 package frozen strawberries in syrup, thawed and pureed (10 ounces)
- ½ teaspoon strawberry extract
Preparation
Step 1: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing them and lightly dusting with flour to prevent sticking.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, strawberry-flavored gelatin, the pureed strawberries, eggs, vegetable oil, and water. Mix these ingredients thoroughly until the batter is smooth, without any lumps.
Step 3: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula to ensure an even bake. Place in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean when the cake is ready.
Step 4: While the cakes are baking, prepare the frosting. In another bowl, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until the mixture is smooth. Add the strawberry puree and strawberry extract, mixing well until fully combined.
Step 5: Gradually add the confectioners' sugar to the cream cheese mixture, beating continuously until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency ideal for frosting.
Step 6: Once the cakes have cooled completely, remove them from the pans. Apply a generous layer of frosting on top of one cake layer, then place the second layer on top. Use the remaining frosting to cover the top and sides of the cake evenly.
Step 7: For a beautiful finish, garnish the cake with freshly sliced strawberries, placing them on the top or around the base for an elegant presentation.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delightful strawberry cake on a decorative cake stand or plate. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or a glass of sparkling wine, making it a perfect choice for afternoon tea or a celebratory meal.
Tips
- Make sure all ingredients, especially the eggs and cream cheese, are at room temperature before starting to ensure a smoother cake batter and frosting.
- For an even more intense strawberry flavor, consider adding a few drops of strawberry essence to the cake batter.
- If the frosting is too thick, you can adjust the consistency by adding a tablespoon of milk or cream until you reach the desired texture.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour (including cooling and frosting)
Nutritional Information
Calories: Approximately 500-600 per slice, depending on serving size. Protein: Approximately 4-6 grams per slice. Sodium: Approximately 200-300 mg per slice.
These nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used and serving sizes.
The Heavenly Strawberry Cake is a testament to the joy of baking and the enduring appeal of strawberry-flavored desserts. With its moist sponge, rich frosting, and the fresh zest of strawberries, this cake offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this strawberry cake promises a delightful experience that's bound to make any day feel a bit more heavenly.
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