Introduction:
Get ready for a taste sensation with The Best Strawberry Cake Ever! This delightful creation brings together the simplicity of cake mix, the fruity essence of gelatin, and the lusciousness of pureed strawberries. Topped with a dreamy strawberry cream cheese frosting, this cake is a celebration of sweetness that’s perfect for any occasion.
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)
Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven:
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly grease 2 (9-inch) round cake pans.
2. Prepare Cake Batter:
- In a large bowl, combine cake mix and strawberry-flavored gelatin. Add pureed strawberries, eggs, oil, and water; beat at medium speed with an electric mixer until smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pans and bake for 20 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted in the center comes out clean.
3. Cool and Frost:
- Let the cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes. Remove from pans and cool completely on wire racks.
For the Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting:
1. Prepare 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 remaining puree can be used in other treats like smoothies or on ice cream.)
- Gradually add confectioners’ sugar, beating until smooth.
2. Frost the Cake:
- Spread the strawberry cream cheese frosting in between layers and on top and sides of the cake.
4. Garnish:
- Garnish with freshly sliced strawberries, if desired.
Nutritional Information:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Baking Time: 20 minutes
- Cooling Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
- Servings: 12-16
Why The Best Strawberry Cake?
The Best Strawberry Cake is a heavenly blend of classic ingredients and fresh strawberry goodness. The combination of moist cake layers, strawberry-flavored gelatin, and the creamy strawberry cream cheese frosting creates a symphony of sweetness that will leave you craving more. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth.
Tips for Flavorful Bliss:
- Use ripe and sweet strawberries for the puree to enhance the natural flavor.
- Experiment with different cake mix flavors for a unique twist.
- Allow the cake layers to cool completely before frosting for a smooth finish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use fresh strawberries instead of frozen for the puree?
A: Absolutely! Use fresh strawberries for a burst of natural sweetness in the puree.
Q: Can I make cupcakes instead of a layer cake?
A: Yes, you can adapt the recipe to make delicious strawberry cupcakes. Adjust the baking time accordingly.
Q: How long does the cake stay fresh?
A: When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, the cake stays fresh for up to 4-5 days.
Conclusion:
Indulge in the irresistible charm of The Best Strawberry Cake Ever! Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself to a sweet delight, this cake is a surefire way to satisfy your cravings. With layers of strawberry goodness and creamy frosting, every bite is a celebration of flavor. Get ready to experience a dessert masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds!