Easiest Holiday Strawberry Cake

If you’re looking for a delightfully sweet and fruity dessert to grace your holiday table, look no further than the Easiest Holiday Strawberry Cake. This homemade strawberry cake bursts with fresh strawberry flavor, complemented perfectly by a creamy strawberry cream cheese frosting. It’s a nostalgic treat that will bring back memories of childhood delights while impressing your guests with its vibrant taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This strawberry cake is a breeze to prepare and delivers a moist, flavorful experience that everyone will adore. Made from scratch with real strawberries, this cake transforms a simple dessert into a festive masterpiece. Plus, the strawberry reduction technique enhances the natural fruit flavor, making every bite a celebration of strawberries.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• 9-inch round cake pans
• Large mixing bowl
• Small bowl or food processor
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Electric mixer
• Wire rack

Ingredients

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cake:

1. Grease and flour two 9-inch round pans. In a large bowl, combine cake mix and gelatin. Add egg whites and oil, then beat until well blended.
2. In a small bowl or food processor, mash the strawberries in their juice, setting aside 3 tablespoons for the icing. Add the water and remaining berries to the batter and mix well. Pour the batter into the prepared pans.
3. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes, then remove from pans and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Icing:

1. Beat the butter at medium speed until light and fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar, alternating with the chopped strawberries, until you reach the desired spreadable texture.
2. Note: You may not need all the powdered sugar or strawberries; adjust based on the frosting’s consistency. If too thin, add more powdered sugar; if too thick, add more strawberries.
3. Frost each cake layer and decorate the sides and top with extra sliced strawberries.

Tips for Success

• Ensure your butter is softened for a smooth frosting texture.
• Mash the strawberries thoroughly to avoid large chunks in the batter.
• Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent the icing from melting.

Additional Tips and Variations

For a twist, try adding a splash of vanilla extract to the cake batter or a tablespoon of lemon juice to the frosting for a zesty note. You can also substitute raspberries or mixed berries for a different flavor profile.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This cake is rich in flavor but also provides some natural vitamins from the strawberries. Remember to enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of frozen? Yes, fresh strawberries work perfectly in this recipe.

How should I store the cake? Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Can I make this cake ahead of time? Absolutely, you can bake the cake a day in advance and frost it the day you plan to serve it.

Conclusion

This Easiest Holiday Strawberry Cake promises to be a hit at any gathering, with its delightful blend of flavors and simple preparation. Give it a try, and feel free to share your experiences and any variations you create. Happy baking!