Quick and easy Strawberry Cake is a delightful dessert that brings a burst of fresh flavor to any occasion. This recipe starts with a boxed cake mix, making it simple to prepare without sacrificing taste. Perfect for birthdays, picnics, or just because, this Strawberry Cake is sure to impress your guests with its vibrant color and delicious strawberry frosting.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Cake
- For the Frosting
- How to Make Strawberry Cake
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
- Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
- Step 4: Prepare Strawberries
- Step 5: Bake the Cakes
- Step 6: Make Frosting
- Step 7: Assemble the Cake
- How to Serve Strawberry Cake
- Classic Slices
- Fresh Fruit Topping
- Chocolate Drizzle
- With Tea or Coffee
- Festive Garnish
- How to Perfect Strawberry Cake
- Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Cake
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Strawberry Cake
- Reheating Strawberry Cake
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use fresh strawberries instead of frozen?
- How do I make my Strawberry Cake more flavorful?
- What is the best way to frost my Strawberry Cake?
- How long does it take for Strawberry Cake to cool completely?
- Can I substitute other fruits in this recipe?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up this cake in no time.
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of strawberries and cake mix creates a moist and flavorful dessert that’s hard to resist.
- Versatile Dessert: Great for various occasions—from casual family gatherings to elegant celebrations.
- Customizable Icing: The frosting can be adjusted based on your preference; feel free to add more strawberries for an extra fruity kick!
- Perfectly Moist Texture: Thanks to the frozen strawberries and egg whites, this cake stays moist and delicious even days after baking.
Tools and Preparation
To make the Strawberry Cake, you’ll need some essential tools that will help streamline the process and ensure great results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups
- Rubber spatula
- 9-inch round cake pans
- Wire rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric mixer: Makes blending ingredients quick and easy, ensuring a smooth batter.
- Mixing bowls: Allows for organized ingredient mixing without spills or messes.
- Rubber spatula: Helps scrape down the sides of the bowl effectively for thorough mixing.

Ingredients
Quick and easy Strawberry Cake that started with a boxed mix that is easily dressed up for a cake full of strawberry flavor.
For the Cake
- 15.25 ounces white cake mix
- .3 ounces sugar-free strawberry jello (1 package)
- 4 egg whites
- ⅓ cup canola oil
- 1 cup frozen unsweetened strawberries (thawed)
- ½ cup water
For the Frosting
- ⅓ cup butter (softened)
- 2 ⅓ cup powdered sugar
How to Make Strawberry Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease and flour two 9-inch round pans, then set aside.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cake mix and strawberry Jell-O mix. Stir until completely mixed.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Add the egg whites, canola oil, and blend well using an electric mixer until fully combined.
Step 4: Prepare Strawberries
In a small bowl or food processor, mash the thawed strawberries. Set aside 3 tablespoons of mashed strawberries for icing. Add the remaining berries along with ½ cup water to your batter and mix thoroughly.
Step 5: Bake the Cakes
Pour the batter into prepared pans. Bake in your preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow cooling for 10 minutes before removing from pans onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Make Frosting
In a small bowl, combine the softened butter with the reserved mashed strawberries. Gradually beat in powdered sugar, continuing until light and fluffy.
Step 7: Assemble the Cake
Place one cooled round cake on a serving platter. Spread half of the frosting over it, then top with the second round cake. Finish frosting the exterior of the entire cake with any remaining icing.
Enjoy your homemade Strawberry Cake!
How to Serve Strawberry Cake
Serving a delicious Strawberry Cake can elevate any occasion. Whether it’s a birthday party, a family gathering, or just a sweet treat at home, how you present the cake can make it even more special.
Classic Slices
- Serve individual slices of the Strawberry Cake on dessert plates for a traditional approach. Add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for an extra touch.
Fresh Fruit Topping
- For a refreshing addition, top each slice with fresh strawberries or mixed berries. This enhances the strawberry flavor while adding vibrant color.
Chocolate Drizzle
- Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cake for an indulgent twist. The rich chocolate complements the sweetness of the strawberries beautifully.
With Tea or Coffee
- Pair slices of Strawberry Cake with a cup of tea or coffee. The light flavors of the cake work well with both beverages, making for an enjoyable afternoon treat.
Festive Garnish
- Decorate the serving platter with mint leaves or edible flowers around the cake. This makes for an eye-catching presentation that is perfect for celebrations.
How to Perfect Strawberry Cake
Achieving the perfect Strawberry Cake involves careful attention to detail and some helpful tips.
Use fresh ingredients: Ensure your strawberries are ripe and fresh for maximum flavor. Frozen strawberries can also be used but ensure they are unsweetened.
Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined when preparing your batter. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture rather than a light and fluffy cake.
Cool completely: Allow your cakes to cool completely before frosting them. This prevents the frosting from melting and ensures a neat presentation.
Experiment with flavors: Consider adding lemon zest or vanilla extract to your batter for added depth of flavor that complements the strawberries nicely.
Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Cake
Strawberry Cake pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options:
- Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a healthy balance alongside your dessert.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, such as brie or goat cheese, adds savory notes that complement the sweet cake.
- Ice Cream Sundae: Top vanilla ice cream with strawberry sauce and nuts for an indulgent treat.
- Coffee Cake: A slice of cinnamon coffee cake creates a delightful pairing during brunch gatherings.
- Panna Cotta: This creamy Italian dessert offers a contrasting texture that pairs well with fruity flavors like strawberry.
- Chocolate Mousse: Rich and airy, chocolate mousse is an elegant choice that balances sweetness with its deep flavor profile.
- Lemon Sorbet: The tartness of lemon sorbet provides an invigorating cleanse between bites of sweet Strawberry Cake.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Strawberry Cake, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Skipping the greasing step: Failing to grease and flour your pans can lead to cakes that stick. Always prepare your pans properly to ensure a smooth release after baking.
- Using unthawed strawberries: If you add frozen strawberries directly to the batter, they may not mix well, leading to uneven flavor. Always thaw and mash them before use.
- Not checking cake doneness: Relying solely on baking time can be misleading. Always perform a toothpick test by inserting it into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, it’s done.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can create a dense cake. Combine ingredients just until blended for a light and fluffy texture.
- Neglecting cooling time: Removing cakes from pans too soon can cause them to break apart. Allow them to cool in the pans for at least 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Strawberry Cake in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Strawberry Cake
- Wrap slices or whole cakes tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
- The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Strawberry Cake
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 20-30 seconds. Check frequently to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding Strawberry Cake that might help you as you bake.
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh strawberries can be used in place of frozen ones. Just make sure they are mashed well before adding them to the batter.
How do I make my Strawberry Cake more flavorful?
Consider adding lemon zest or vanilla extract to enhance the strawberry flavor in your cake.
What is the best way to frost my Strawberry Cake?
For an even finish, apply frosting in layers. Start with half of the frosting on one layer, add the second layer, and then frost the top and sides evenly.
How long does it take for Strawberry Cake to cool completely?
Typically, allowing it about 1 hour on a wire rack will ensure it’s fully cooled before frosting or serving.
Can I substitute other fruits in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can experiment with other berries like blueberries or raspberries for a delicious twist on this cake.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Cake is not only quick and easy but also bursting with flavor. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various fruits or flavors. We encourage you to try this delightful recipe and make it your own!
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Strawberry Cake
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful sweetness of this easy Strawberry Cake, a perfect treat for any occasion. With its vibrant color and luscious strawberry frosting, this cake is sure to impress family and friends. Starting with a boxed cake mix makes preparation a breeze, allowing you to focus on the joy of baking without compromising flavor. This moist and flavorful dessert pairs beautifully with fresh fruit toppings or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, making it versatile enough for birthdays, picnics, or simply as a sweet surprise. Enjoy the fruity burst in every bite!
Ingredients
- 15.25 ounces white cake mix
- 3 ounces sugar-free strawberry jello (1 package)
- 4 egg whites
- ⅓ cup canola oil
- 1 cup frozen unsweetened strawberries (thawed)
- ½ cup water
- ⅓ cup butter (softened)
- 2 ⅓ cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round pans.
- In a large bowl, combine cake mix and strawberry Jell-O until mixed well.
- Add egg whites and canola oil; blend using an electric mixer until smooth.
- Mash thawed strawberries in a separate bowl; reserve 3 tablespoons for frosting. Mix the remaining strawberries with batter along with water.
- Pour batter into prepared pans and bake for 20-25 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Allow cakes to cool for about 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks.
- For frosting, combine softened butter with reserved mashed strawberries; gradually beat in powdered sugar until fluffy.
- Assemble by layering cakes with frosting in between and covering the top and sides.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 249
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg