Strawberry Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting

The Strawberry Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful treat that celebrates the sweetness of fresh strawberries in every bite. This cake is perfect for birthday celebrations, summer gatherings, or any occasion that calls for a touch of sweetness. With its moist layers and creamy frosting, this dessert will become a favorite among family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Moist: The combination of fresh strawberries and sour cream ensures each slice is bursting with flavor and moisture.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, baking this cake is a breeze even for beginners.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party, picnic, or just a sweet craving, this cake fits perfectly into any event.
• Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant pink color and creamy frosting create an eye-catching dessert that impresses guests.
• Customizable Flavor: Feel free to experiment by adding other fruits or flavors to make it uniquely yours!

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious Strawberry Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting, you’ll need some essential tools that will make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups
• Cake pans (8-inch or 9-inch)
• Spatula
• Wire cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Ensures the batter is mixed thoroughly and achieves the right fluffy texture quickly.
• Cake pans: Proper-sized pans help the cake bake evenly, preventing any burnt edges.
• Wire cooling rack: Allows the cakes to cool evenly without trapping moisture at the bottom.

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: 3-4 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

Preheat your oven to 350F (175C). Grease and flour three 8-inch or 9-inch round cake pans (or line with parchment).
In a large bowl, combine cake mix and strawberry vegan gelatin powder.
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.
If desired, add food coloring to intensify the pink color.
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.

Step 2: Bake

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

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Whipped Frosting

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

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

Level the cooled cake layers with a serrated knife if necessary.
Place the first cake layer on a serving plate or cake board. Spread with a layer of frosting.
Add second and third layers while repeating frosting in between.
Frost the top and sides with remaining frosting; smooth out or create swirls as desired.
Garnish with fresh strawberries if serving immediately.

How to Serve Strawberry Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting

Serving Strawberry Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting can elevate any occasion. Whether it’s a birthday party, a picnic, or a simple family gathering, the presentation and side items can enhance the experience.

For Special Occasions

• Decorative Platter: Arrange slices on a beautiful cake stand or platter with fresh strawberries around the edges for a vibrant look.
• Individual Servings: Cut into small squares and serve in cupcake liners for easy handling at parties.

With Beverages

• Iced Tea: Pair with a refreshing glass of sweetened iced tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
• Lemonade: A cool lemonade complements the sweetness of the cake beautifully.

Garnishing Ideas

• Fresh Mint Leaves: Add a sprig of mint on top of each slice for an aromatic touch.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Lightly drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top for added richness and visual appeal.

How to Perfect Strawberry Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting

Perfecting your Strawberry Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting is all about attention to detail. Follow these tips for an impressive dessert every time.

• Bold Use Fresh Strawberries: Fresh strawberries not only enhance flavor but also provide moisture to your cake.
• Bold Ensure Proper Mixing: Mix the batter just until combined to avoid overworking the flour, which can lead to a dense cake.
• Bold Cool Completely: Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting; warm layers can cause frosting to melt and slide off.
• Bold Store Correctly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge to preserve freshness and prevent drying out.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting

Pair your Strawberry Cake with complementary side dishes to create a well-rounded meal. These options are perfect for rounding out your dessert table.

1. Bold Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a light and refreshing contrast to the rich cake.
2. Bold Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess of vanilla ice cream pairs excellently with the strawberry flavors.
3. Bold Lemon Sorbet: A tart sorbet cleanses the palate after each sweet bite of cake.
4. Bold Spinach Salad: A light spinach salad with vinaigrette balances the sweetness of dessert.
5. Bold Chocolate-Covered Almonds: These provide a crunchy texture that complements the softness of the cake.
6. Bold Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness adds an interesting twist when served alongside dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking the perfect Strawberry Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision. This ensures your cake has the right texture and flavor.
• Overmixing the batter: Be careful not to overbeat your batter after adding dry and wet ingredients. Mix just until combined for a light and fluffy cake.
• Skipping the cooling step: Allowing the cakes to cool completely before frosting is crucial. If you frost while warm, the frosting may melt and slide off.
• Using cold ingredients: Let your eggs, milk, and butter come to room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and better rise.
• Ignoring oven calibration: Ovens can vary in temperature. Use an oven thermometer to ensure your cake bakes evenly.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Keep slices separated with parchment paper to maintain freshness.

Freezing Strawberry Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Strawberry Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate. Heat individual slices for about 20-30 seconds on medium power.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a pan over low heat, covering with a lid. Warm gently for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Strawberry Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting?

Strawberry Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting is a moist cake made using fresh strawberries and topped with a creamy whipped cream cheese frosting. It’s perfect for celebrations!

Can I use frozen strawberries in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries as a substitute. Just make sure to thaw them and drain excess moisture before using.

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

Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze it for longer storage.

Can I customize this Strawberry Cake recipe?

Absolutely! You can add other fruits like blueberries or raspberries, or try different flavors of frosting to suit your taste.

Is this recipe suitable for beginners?

Yes! This recipe is straightforward and beginner-friendly, making it easy to create an impressive dessert.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different fruits or flavors, making it perfect for any occasion. Give this delightful recipe a try and impress your friends and family!