This strawberry sheet cake is a showstopper that combines the fluffy goodness of a classic cake with the rich flavor of fresh strawberries. Picture this: a moist, tender cake that practically melts in your mouth, topped with a luscious buttercream frosting enhanced by real strawberries. It’s perfect for birthdays, picnics, or any gathering where you want to impress your friends and family.
Making this cake is easier than you might think! With just the right blend of simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll find that even novice bakers can whip it up without a hitch. The result? A stunning treat bursting with flavor and color that will have everyone lining up for a slice. So, grab your apron and let’s make some Strawberry Sheet Cake that will brighten your day and delight your taste buds!
Why This Recipe Works
This Strawberry Sheet Cake blends the lightness of a classic cake with the rich flavor of real strawberries, creating a delightful dessert perfect for any occasion. The use of strawberry gelatin not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to the cake’s moist texture. This unique combination means you’ll enjoy not only a flavorful experience but also a cake that stays fresh and soft for days.
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Sheet Cake
With its vibrant color and delicious taste, this Strawberry Sheet Cake is a feast for the eyes and the palate. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s simple to make with easy-to-follow instructions, making it a favorite for both novice and experienced bakers. There’s nothing quite like biting into a piece and getting that lovely burst of strawberry flavor, thanks to the fresh strawberries in the frosting that perfectly complement the cake. You can easily impress your guests and enjoy the smiles on their faces when they take a bite!
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup canola or vegetable oil
- 1 box (15 ounces) white cake mix
- 1 box (3 ounces) strawberry gelatin
- ½ cup hot water
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 3 tablespoons finely diced fresh strawberries
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
The Perfect Strawberry Cake Base
Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure an even bake.
Beat the Eggs
In a mixing bowl, lightly beat the 4 large eggs using an electric mixer until they are frothy and well mixed.
Combine the Wet Ingredients
Next, add 1 cup of canola or vegetable oil to the beaten eggs. Mix until everything is well combined, creating a smooth, rich mixture.
Mix the Cake Ingredients
Gradually add 1 box (15 ounces) of white cake mix to the egg and oil mixture. Blend until just combined. You don’t want to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
Mix Strawberry Gelatin with Water
In a separate bowl, dissolve 1 box (3 ounces) of strawberry gelatin in ½ cup of hot water. This step is crucial for infusing the cake with that wonderful strawberry flavor.
Combine Gelatin with Cake Batter
Pour the gelatin mixture into the cake batter. Beat the batter on low speed until combined. Increase to medium speed and beat for 2 minutes. This aeration helps make the cake light and fluffy.
Bake the Cake
Pour the cake batter into a greased 9 x 13 x 2 cake pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean.
Cool the Cake
Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before icing. This step is important to achieve a smooth finish.
How to Make Strawberry Buttercream Icing
Beat the Butter
In a mixing bowl, beat ½ cup (1 stick) of softened unsalted butter on medium speed until it is smooth and fluffy.
Add Confectioners’ Sugar
Gradually mix in 1 cup of confectioners’ sugar. Combine until well incorporated and the mixture thickens.
Incorporate Fresh Strawberries
Next, add 1 tablespoon of finely diced fresh strawberries and mix again until the frosting thickens further. You’ll start smelling that lovely strawberry aroma!
Repeat Sugar and Strawberry Addition
Continue adding 1 cup of confectioners’ sugar and 1 tablespoon of diced strawberries, mixing well each time, until all ingredients are combined. The frosting should be thick and spreadable but not too hard.
Finish with Vanilla
Finally, stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. If the frosting is too thick, add a splash of milk; if it’s too thin, add a little more confectioners’ sugar for the desired consistency.
Frost Your Cake
Spread the strawberry buttercream icing evenly over the cooled cake. To create a beautiful finish, use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delightful Strawberry Sheet Cake at birthdays, picnics, or any celebration for an impressive dessert. It pairs beautifully with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, enhancing the strawberry flavor and making each bite even more delightful.
Tips for Success
- Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing. This simple tweak makes a huge difference in texture.
- For added flavor, consider infusing the icing with lemon zest. The brightness of lemon pairs perfectly with strawberries.
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best taste and texture in your icing—they’ll make a world of difference!
Variations
- For an intensified strawberry flavor, substitute the white cake mix with a strawberry cake mix. It’s an easy swap that packs a punch.
- Add sprinkles on top of the frosting for a festive touch, perfect for celebrations or just to make your cake more visually appealing.
Storage Tips
Store leftover Strawberry Sheet Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you live in warmer climates, refrigerate it to keep it fresh longer.
Pairing Ideas
This strawberry cake pairs excellently with a sweet rosé wine or a refreshing glass of lemonade. The sweet and fruity flavors create an unforgettable experience, perfect for warm summer gatherings.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use frozen strawberries for the icing?
A1: Yes, frozen strawberries can be used, but make sure to drain any excess moisture before adding them to the frosting for a thicker consistency.
Q2: How can I make this cake gluten-free?
A2: Substitute the white cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix available at most grocery stores.
Q3: Can I prepare the cake in advance?
A3: Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day ahead and frost it just before serving to keep it fresh and beautiful.
Q4: What can I use instead of eggs?
A4: For a vegan version, replace eggs with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce per egg. It works great and keeps the cake moist.
Q5: How long will this cake stay fresh?
A5: The cake will remain fresh for about 3 days at room temperature, or up to a week if refrigerated.
This delightful Strawberry Sheet Cake recipe is perfect for any occasion, offering a burst of flavor and color that everyone will love. The combination of sweet, moist texture and fresh strawberry frosting creates an unforgettable treat. Whether you’re celebrating a special moment or just indulging your sweet tooth, this cake will surely impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds. Enjoy the joy of baking and sharing this scrumptious strawberry creation!
Print
Strawberry Sheet Cake
This Strawberry Sheet Cake is a delightful, moist cake bursting with fresh strawberry flavor. Topped with rich buttercream, it’s perfect for any gathering!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup canola or vegetable oil
- 1 box (15 ounces) white cake mix
- 1 box (3 ounces) strawberry gelatin
- ½ cup hot water
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups confectioners' sugar
- 3 tablespoons finely diced fresh strawberries
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Beat eggs in a mixing bowl until frothy.
- Add oil to eggs and mix well.
- Gradually blend in the cake mix until just combined.
- Dissolve strawberry gelatin in hot water.
- Add gelatin mixture to the batter and mix until smooth.
- Pour batter into a greased 9 x 13 x 2 pan and bake for 30 minutes.
- Cool completely on a wire rack before icing.
- Beat butter until smooth and fluffy.
- Gradually add confectioners' sugar, mixing well.
- Incorporate diced strawberries and vanilla extract.
- Spread frosting over cooled cake.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
Ensure ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
For added flavor, infuse icing with lemon zest.
Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 30
- Sodium: 250
- Fat: 15
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Unsaturated Fat: 10
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 45
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 3
- Cholesterol: 35
