Indulge in the delightful sweetness of summer with this Double Strawberry Cake recipe! Bursting with the vibrant flavors of fresh strawberries, this cake is a perfect treat for any occasion, from birthdays to picnics and everything in between. With layers of moist strawberry-infused cake and a creamy strawberry frosting, every bite is a taste of pure bliss. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, so you can enjoy a slice of summer any time of year.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 (14.25 oz) box white cake mix
- 3 1/2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 (3 oz) 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 Frosting:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, room temperature
- 1/2 cup butter (1 stick)
- 1 cup strawberry puree
- 4-5 cups powdered sugar
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, flour, and strawberry jello.
- Add the water, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and strawberry puree to the dry ingredients. Mix until well combined and smooth.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
- Remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Notes:
- Make sure to use room temperature ingredients for the frosting to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.
- For the strawberry puree, you can use fresh or frozen berries. If using frozen, thaw them before pureeing.
- To make the puree, simply blend fresh or thawed strawberries in a blender or food processor until smooth.
Variations:
- Chocolate Covered Strawberries: For a decadent twist, drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the cake and garnish with fresh strawberries.
- Lemon Strawberry Cake: Add a hint of citrus flavor by incorporating lemon zest into the cake batter and frosting.
- Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes: Instead of baking a layered cake, spoon the batter into cupcake liners and bake for 18-20 minutes. Top with whipped cream and sliced strawberries for a delightful twist on a classic dessert.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- To make this recipe keto-friendly, replace the white cake mix with almond flour and use a sugar substitute instead of powdered sugar in the frosting. You can also use almond milk instead of water for added flavor.
- For a low-carb version, reduce the amount of flour in the cake batter and use a sugar-free strawberry jello mix. You can also omit the frosting or use a low-carb frosting alternative.
In conclusion, this Double Strawberry Cake is a deliciously sweet and fruity dessert that is sure to delight your taste buds. With its moist cake layers infused with strawberry flavor and creamy frosting, it’s a treat that everyone will love. Plus, with easy variations and keto and low-carb options, you can enjoy this cake no matter your dietary preferences. So why wait? Whip up a batch today and savor the irresistible taste of summer in every bite
Additional Cooking Tips:
- When preparing the cake batter, ensure that all the ingredients are well incorporated to achieve a smooth and uniform texture. Be mindful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense cake.
- To prevent the cakes from sticking to the pans, you can also line the bottoms with parchment paper before greasing and flouring them.
- For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of almond extract to the cake batter. This will complement the strawberry flavor beautifully and add depth to the overall taste.
- If you prefer a more vibrant pink color for the cake, you can add a few drops of food coloring to the batter. Gel food coloring works best as it won’t affect the consistency of the batter.
Storage and Serving Suggestions:
- Once assembled, store the cake in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. Cover the cake with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
- Before serving, allow the cake to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes to soften the frosting and enhance the flavors.
- Garnish the cake with fresh strawberries or sliced almonds for an elegant finishing touch. You can also dust the top with powdered sugar for a decorative effect.
Health Benefits of Strawberries:
- Strawberries are not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. They are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, making them a healthy addition to your diet.
- The antioxidants found in strawberries help protect your body from oxidative stress and inflammation, which can reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer.
- Additionally, the fiber in strawberries promotes digestive health and helps regulate blood sugar levels. Including strawberries in your diet can also support weight management and improve skin health.
In summary, this Double Strawberry Cake is a delightful dessert that celebrates the bright and refreshing flavors of strawberries. Whether enjoyed on its own or as part of a special occasion, this cake is sure to impress with its moist texture, vibrant color, and irresistible taste. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, it’s a recipe that anyone can master. So why not treat yourself and your loved ones to a slice of this delicious cake today
