Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

The Best Strawberry Cake Ever

This delectable cake blends the sweet taste of strawberries with a light, airy white cake and a rich cream cheese frosting.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 mins
  • Yield: 6 serving 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 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 below)

Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting:

  • ¼ cup softened butter
  • 1 (8-ounce) package softened cream cheese
  • 1 (10-ounce) package frozen strawberries in syrup, thawed and pureed
  • ½ teaspoon strawberry extract
  • 7 cups confectioners’ sugar
  • Fresh strawberry slices for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment circles for easy removal.
  2. Mix the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cake mix and strawberry gelatin. Add the pureed strawberries, eggs, oil, and water. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2–3 minutes, or until the batter is smooth and evenly colored. Scrape down the sides as needed.
  3. Bake the Cakes: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the tops are springy to the touch and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  4. Cool Completely: Let the cakes cool in their pans for 10 minutes, then gently turn them out onto wire racks to cool fully—this prevents the frosting from melting.
  5. Make the Frosting: In a clean mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until completely smooth and fluffy. Add 1/4 cup of the strawberry puree and the strawberry extract. Beat until combined. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, about 1 cup at a time, until the frosting is creamy and holds its shape.
  6. Assemble the Cake: Once the cake layers are completely cool, place one layer on your serving plate. Spread a generous layer of frosting over the top, then place the second cake layer on top. Continue frosting the top and sides until the whole cake is covered.
  7. Garnish (Optional): Top with fresh strawberry slices for a vibrant, juicy finish. Chill for 30 minutes before slicing for cleaner cuts.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cooling Time: 1 hour
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes