Indulge in the delightful flavors of fresh and ripe strawberries with this Double Strawberry Cake! Perfect for birthdays, summer picnics, or any special occasion, this cake features a strawberry-flavored cake base and a creamy, strawberry-infused frosting that will satisfy any strawberry lover’s cravings.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
1 (14.25 ounce) box white cake mix
3 1/2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 (3 ounce) box strawberry Jello
1/2 cup water
3/4 cup vegetable oil
4 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup strawberry puree (from fresh or frozen berries)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, room temperature
1/2 cup butter (1 stick), room temperature
1 cup strawberry puree
4-5 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly and achieves the perfect texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
Grease and Flour the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray, then dust with flour to prevent sticking.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, all-purpose flour, and strawberry Jello powder. Sift these ingredients together to ensure they are well combined and free of lumps.
Add Wet Ingredients: Add the water, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and strawberry puree to the dry mixture. Mix until smooth using a stand mixer or hand mixer on medium speed, ensuring all ingredients are fully incorporated.
Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake—if it comes out clean, the cake is done.
Cool: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before frosting.
Step 4: Prepare the Frosting
Mix Cream Cheese & Butter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
Add Strawberry Puree: Gradually add the strawberry puree to the cream cheese mixture, mixing until fully incorporated.
Add Powdered Sugar: Slowly add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed until the frosting reaches your desired consistency. If the frosting is too thick, add a little milk, one tablespoon at a time, until it is smooth and spreadable.
Chill: Refrigerate the frosting until you are ready to use it. Chilling helps the frosting firm up, making it easier to spread on the cake.
Step 5: Frost the Cake
Frost the Cake: Once the cake is completely cool, spread the strawberry cream cheese frosting evenly over the top using a spatula or frosting knife.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Cut and Serve: Slice the cake and serve with coffee or tea. Enjoy the rich strawberry flavor and creamy frosting.
Optional Garnishes: Decorate with fresh strawberry slices, a sprinkle of strawberry Jello powder, or shaved white chocolate for an extra touch of elegance.
Variations and Substitutions
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour, Jello, and cake mix with gluten-free versions.
Dairy-Free Frosting: Use coconut cream and vegan butter instead of cream cheese and regular butter.
Extra Flavors: Add a teaspoon of almond extract for a nutty twist, or incorporate diced fresh strawberries into the frosting for added texture.
Decorating Ideas: Shave white chocolate over the top, add fresh mint leaves, or bake the batter in two round pans for a layered dessert.
Conclusion
The Double Strawberry Cake is a delicious and vibrant dessert that highlights the natural flavors of strawberries in both the cake and frosting. Its beautiful pink hue and fruity taste make it a standout treat for any celebration. Whether you’re baking for a loved one’s birthday or just want to enjoy a sweet treat, this recipe is sure to impress. Customize it to suit your tastes and dietary needs, and savor the delightful combination of strawberry goodness in every bite. Enjoy!
