Strawberry Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting

Strawberry Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful dessert perfect for any celebration or family gathering. This cake stands out with its vibrant flavor and creamy texture, making it a crowd-pleaser at birthdays, picnics, or simply as a sweet treat at home. The combination of fresh strawberries and luscious cream cheese frosting creates a mouthwatering experience that is hard to resist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip up this delicious cake.
• Fresh Flavor: The use of fresh strawberries adds a natural sweetness and beautiful color to the cake.
• Versatile Occasion: Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just an afternoon treat with friends.
• Creamy Delight: The whipped cream cheese frosting enhances the cake’s flavor and provides a rich, creamy texture.
• Customizable: You can adjust the sweetness or add more strawberries based on your preference.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the baking process smooth.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups
• Rubber spatula
• Three 8-inch or 9-inch round cake pans
• Cooling racks

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Ensures that your batter is mixed thoroughly and achieves the desired fluffiness.
• Rubber spatula: Ideal for scraping down sides of bowls and ensuring all ingredients are combined well without waste.

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Ingredients

For the Strawberry Cake:

• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup mashed fresh strawberries (or strawberry puree)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 box white cake mix (15.25 oz)
• 1 box strawberry-flavored vegan gelatin (3 oz, like Jell-O)
• Optional: 34 drops red food coloring for a more vibrant pink

For the Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2-3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream (cold)

How to Make Strawberry Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 350F (175C). Grease and flour three 8-inch or 9-inch round cake pans (or line with parchment).
2. In a large bowl, combine the cake mix and strawberry vegan gelatin powder.
3. Add eggs, milk, oil, sour cream, mashed strawberries, and vanilla. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until the batter is smooth and fluffy.
4. If desired, add food coloring to intensify the pink color.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.

Step 2: Bake

1. Bake for 22-28 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
2. Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely before frosting.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Whipped Frosting

1. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth and fluffy.
2. Add vanilla and gradually beat in powdered sugar until light and creamy.
3. Pour in cold heavy cream and whip until fluffy and holding peaks (about 2-3 minutes). Be careful not to overwhip.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

1. Level cooled cake layers with a serrated knife if necessary.
2. Place the first cake layer on a serving plate or cake board. Spread with a layer of frosting.
3. Add second and third layers while repeating frosting in between each layer.
4. Frost the top and sides with remaining frosting, smoothing out or using swirls as desired.
5. Garnish with fresh strawberries if serving immediately.

Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting!

How to Serve Strawberry Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting

Serving your Strawberry Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting can elevate any occasion. Whether it’s a birthday, a summer gathering, or just a sweet treat for yourself, consider these delightful serving suggestions.

Celebrate with Fresh Fruits

• Berries Galore: Top your cake with an assortment of fresh berries like blueberries and raspberries for a pop of color and flavor.
• Fruit Compote: Serve alongside a warm strawberry or mixed berry compote to add a luscious sauce that complements the cake.

Pair with Beverages

• Iced Tea: A refreshing glass of iced tea, whether sweetened or unsweetened, balances the sweetness of the cake perfectly.
• Lemonade: The tangy zest of lemonade enhances the fruity flavors in your cake, making it a great pairing for hot days.

Add Textures

• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some toasted almonds or walnuts on top for an added crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy frosting.
• Coconut Flakes: Garnish with shredded coconut for a tropical twist that pairs wonderfully with strawberries.

How to Perfect Strawberry Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting

To ensure your Strawberry Cake is always a hit, follow these handy tips. They will help you achieve the best texture and flavor every time.

• Bold Ingredients Matter: Use fresh strawberries instead of frozen for more vibrant flavor and moisture.
• Bold Mixing Technique: Avoid over-mixing your batter. Mix until just combined to keep your cake light and fluffy.
• Bold Cooling Time: Let the cakes cool completely before frosting. This prevents melting and sliding of your frosting.
• Bold Frosting Consistency: Aim for a stiff but spreadable frosting consistency. If it’s too runny, refrigerate briefly before using.
• Bold Layering: Level each cake layer before stacking to ensure stability and a professional appearance.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting

Pairing side dishes with your delightful Strawberry Cake can create a well-rounded meal experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Fresh Garden Salad: A light salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers dressed in vinaigrette complements the sweetness of the cake.
2. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Flavorful skewers marinated in herbs provide protein that balances out the dessert’s sweetness.
3. Vegetable Platter: A colorful array of raw veggies served with hummus offers a crunchy contrast to the soft cake.
4. Cheese Board: An assortment of cheeses paired with crackers can offer savory notes that enhance the sweet flavors in your dessert.
5. Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits adds freshness and keeps things light alongside the rich frosting.
6. Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad tossed in olive oil and herbs can be a filling accompaniment without overpowering the dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a Strawberry Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting can be delightful, but certain mistakes can hinder your results. Here are common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Using cold ingredients: Make sure your eggs, milk, and butter are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and improves the cake’s texture.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined for the best texture. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of a light and fluffy one.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Always preheat your oven to ensure even baking. An unheated oven can cause unevenly baked layers.
• Not leveling the cake layers: Use a serrated knife to trim any domes from the tops of the cakes. Level layers allow for even stacking and proper frosting distribution.
• Frosting too soon: Ensure the cakes are completely cool before frosting. Frosting warm cakes can lead to melting and an unstable structure.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• If possible, separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Strawberry Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting

• Wrap individual cake layers tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can last up to 3 months.
• For frosted cake, freeze uncovered for 1 hour until firm, then wrap securely.

Reheating Strawberry Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Warm individual slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds; avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a covered pan over low heat for about 5 minutes, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Strawberry Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes! Thaw and drain frozen strawberries before using them in the recipe.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Substitute the white cake mix with a gluten-free version for a delicious alternative.

Can I replace cream cheese in the frosting?

You could use a plant-based cream cheese alternative for a dairy-free option while keeping similar flavors.

How should I store my Strawberry Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting is not only delicious but also versatile. Customize it by adding different fruits or flavors to suit your taste. Enjoy this sweet treat at any gathering or simply as a delightful dessert at home!