Mmm, who doesn’t love the sweet, irresistible allure of a strawberry cake? This recipe transforms a simple cake mix into a moist, flavorful masterpiece that’ll have everyone begging for seconds. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just because, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Why This Recipe Works
- It starts with a boxed cake mix for ease, but we jazz it up with a few extra ingredients to make it taste homemade.
- The addition of fresh strawberries and a hint of vanilla elevates the flavor profile beyond the ordinary.
- A simple yet effective frosting technique ensures your cake looks as good as it tastes.
- It’s versatile, allowing for numerous variations to suit any taste or occasion.
- Perfect for bakers of all skill levels, from novice to pro.
Ingredients
- 1 box (15.25 oz) strawberry cake mix
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 can (16 oz) vanilla frosting
- 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, sliced (for garnish)
Equipment Needed
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×13 inch baking pan with a light coating of oil or non-stick spray. This ensures your cake will slide out effortlessly after baking. Tip: For extra flavor, dust the greased pan with a light sprinkle of flour.
Mix the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, water, and vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes until the batter is smooth. Fold in the diced strawberries gently to distribute them evenly without overmixing. Tip: For a richer texture, let the batter sit for 5 minutes before pouring into the pan.
Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The edges should be lightly golden, and the top springy to the touch.
Cool and Frost
Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack, about 1 hour. Once cooled, spread the vanilla frosting evenly over the top. For a decorative touch, arrange the sliced strawberries on top of the frosting. Tip: For easier spreading, slightly warm the frosting in the microwave for 10 seconds.
Serve and Enjoy
Slice the cake into squares and serve. The combination of moist cake, creamy frosting, and fresh strawberries is simply divine. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Tips and Tricks
For those looking to take their strawberry cake to the next level, consider these advanced tips. First, swap out the water in the recipe for strawberry puree to intensify the strawberry flavor. Second, add a layer of cream cheese frosting beneath the vanilla for a tangy contrast. Third, for a professional finish, use a piping bag to apply the frosting in decorative swirls. Lastly, if fresh strawberries aren’t in season, frozen strawberries (thawed and drained) can be a great substitute.
Recipe Variations
- Chocolate Strawberry Twist: Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a chocolatey surprise.
- Lemon Strawberry Fusion: Mix in the zest of one lemon to the batter for a citrusy kick.
- Strawberry Shortcake Style: Serve each slice with a dollop of whipped cream and extra strawberries.
- Almond Strawberry Delight: Replace the vanilla extract with almond extract for a nutty flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free strawberry cake mix and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cake mix?
Absolutely! While this recipe is tailored for strawberry cake mix, feel free to experiment with vanilla or chocolate mixes. Just adjust the add-ins accordingly to complement the base flavor.
How can I make the cake more moist?
For an even moister cake, consider adding a small box of strawberry-flavored instant pudding to the dry mix. This little trick adds both moisture and an extra layer of flavor.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance. Just wait to frost it until the day you plan to serve it to ensure the frosting stays fresh and delicious.
Summary
This strawberry cake mix recipe is a simple, yet delicious way to create a homemade-tasting cake with minimal effort. Perfect for any occasion, it’s sure to impress with its moist texture, rich flavor, and beautiful presentation.