Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Cake Recipe
If you’re looking for a dessert that bursts with flavor and brings a touch of joy, you’ll love this Strawberry Cake recipe.
It’s not just any cake; it’s a delightful combination of sweet strawberries, fluffy cake, and a creamy frosting that melts in your mouth.
Every bite takes me back to sunny picnics and carefree days. The vibrant color and rich taste make it a showstopper at gatherings.
Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, so I never feel overwhelmed in the kitchen.
Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked on this delicious treat!
Ingredients of Strawberry Cake
When it comes to baking a cake, having the right ingredients is half the battle. And this Strawberry Cake recipe? It’s got a delightful mix that’ll make your taste buds dance! Picture fluffy layers infused with strawberry goodness, complemented by a creamy frosting that takes it to a whole new level.
Let’s gather what we need so we can whip up this delicious treat together.
Here’s a handy list of the ingredients you’ll need to make this scrumptious Strawberry Cake:
- 1 box white cake mix
- 1 (3 ounce) package strawberry Jell-O gelatin dessert
- 1 cup corn oil
- 1/2 cup milk
- 4 eggs
- 1 cup frozen strawberries, thawed (don’t drain!)
- 1 cup coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 box powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup drained strawberries (for frosting)
- 1/2 cup coconut (for frosting)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (for frosting)
Now, let’s talk about these ingredients for a moment. If you’re wondering about the frozen strawberries, they add a wonderful sweetness and moisture to the cake. Thawing them is key; we want that juicy flavor without excess water mucking things up.
And don’t be shy with the coconut and pecans; they bring a lovely texture and nutty flavor that truly elevate the cake. If you’re not a fan of coconut, you could skip it, but I’ve to say, it really does add that tropical twist!
Just imagine how fantastic it’ll smell as it bakes—your kitchen will feel like a cozy bakery in no time, and you might even have to fend off family members trying to sneak a taste before it’s frosted!
How to Make Strawberry Cake
Grab a large bowl and combine the 1 box of white cake mix with the 1 (3 ounce) package of strawberry Jell-O gelatin dessert. This is where the magic begins. The Jell-O adds that vibrant pink hue and a punch of strawberry flavor that’ll make your cake sing.
Next, beat in 1 cup of corn oil, 1/2 cup of milk, and the 4 eggs, one at a time. It’s like a little dance—mixing and blending until everything is smooth and creamy.
Now, for the pièce de résistance, fold in 1 cup of thawed frozen strawberries, 1 cup of coconut, and 1 cup of chopped pecans. Don’t rush this step; gently folding helps keep the texture light and fluffy.
Pour the batter into your prepared pans and bake for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Oh, the aroma wafting through your kitchen at this point will be absolutely divine.
While the cake is baking, you can prepare the frosting. In a separate bowl, mix together 1/2 cup of softened butter, 1 box of powdered sugar, and the remaining ingredients: 1/2 cup of drained strawberries, 1/2 cup of coconut, and 1/2 cup of chopped pecans.
Once your cake layers have cooled, spread that creamy frosting generously between the layers and over the top. If you can resist the urge to plunge in right away, let it sit for a bit to set. But who are we kidding? This cake is simply irresistible.
Enjoy every bite of your homemade Strawberry Cake—it’s a labor of love that’s sure to impress!
Strawberry Cake Substitutions & Variations
While I love the classic strawberry cake recipe, experimenting with substitutions and variations can lead to delightful new twists.
For a lighter option, I sometimes swap the white cake mix for a sponge cake or even a gluten-free mix. Adding fresh strawberries instead of frozen gives a burst of flavor. I’ve also tried incorporating lemon zest for a revitalizing zest.
For a richer cake, using butter instead of oil works wonders. If you’re feeling adventurous, mix in a layer of cream cheese frosting or top it with whipped cream.
The possibilities are endless, and each twist brings something unique to the table!
What to Serve with Strawberry Cake
What pairs perfectly with a slice of moist strawberry cake? I love serving it with a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The lightness complements the cake’s richness beautifully.
For a twist, I often add a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside, creating a delightful contrast in textures. Fresh strawberries on the side enhance the fruity flavor and make the presentation pop.
If I’m feeling adventurous, I’ll drizzle a little chocolate sauce over the cake for an indulgent touch.
Finally, a cup of herbal tea or a glass of sparkling lemonade adds a revitalizing balance to the sweetness. Enjoy experimenting!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your strawberry cake turns out perfectly every time, I recommend using room temperature ingredients, as they blend together more smoothly and help create a lighter texture.
Also, don’t skip the step of folding in the strawberries, coconut, and pecans gently; it keeps the cake fluffy.
If you want a stronger strawberry flavor, try adding a bit of strawberry puree to the frosting.
When it comes to storage, keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
Finally, feel free to experiment with different nuts or even add chocolate chips for a twist!