Strawberry Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting

Strawberry Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful treat that brightens up any occasion. This cake is perfect for birthdays, picnics, or just a sweet indulgence on a sunny afternoon. Its light and fluffy texture combined with the rich whipped cream cheese frosting makes it truly irresistible. Plus, the fresh strawberries not only add flavor but also a pop of color, making this cake visually stunning!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, you can whip up this cake in no time.
• Fresh Flavor: Made with real strawberries and creamy frosting, every bite bursts with freshness.
• Versatile: Perfect for various occasions from casual gatherings to special celebrations.
• Visually Appealing: The vibrant pink color and garnished strawberries make this cake a showstopper.
• Rich Texture: The combination of cream cheese and whipped cream creates an incredibly smooth frosting.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools will make your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here are some essential tools to have on hand.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Electric mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Rubber spatula
• Cake pans (8-inch or 9-inch)
• Wire racks

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when blending the batter to achieve a fluffier texture.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls allows for easy organization and prevents mess during preparation.
• Rubber spatula: Ideal for scraping down the sides of bowls, ensuring no ingredients are left behind.

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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: 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 them with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, combine the cake mix and strawberry vegan gelatin powder.

Add the eggs, milk, oil, sour cream, mashed strawberries, and vanilla. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until the batter is smooth and fluffy.

If desired, add food coloring to enhance the pink color.

Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans and smooth out the tops.

Step 2: Bake

Bake for 22-28 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely before frosting.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Whipped Frosting

In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and fluffy.

Add vanilla extract and gradually beat in powdered sugar until the mixture is light and creamy.

Pour in cold heavy cream and whip until fluffy and holds peaks (about 2-3 minutes). Be careful not to overwhip.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

Level each cooled cake layer with a serrated knife if necessary.

Place one layer on a serving plate or cake board. Spread a layer of frosting on top.

Add the second layer followed by more frosting. Repeat with the third layer.

Frost the top and sides of the cake with any remaining frosting. Smooth it out or create swirls as desired.

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 gathering. Here are some delightful ways to present this delicious dessert.

Garnish with Fresh Fruits

• Add slices of fresh strawberries or other seasonal fruits on top for a vibrant and fresh touch.

Pair with Ice Cream

• Serve slices alongside a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream for a creamy contrast.

Drizzle with Fruit Sauce

• A light drizzle of strawberry sauce or berry compote enhances the flavor and adds a beautiful presentation.

Create a Dessert Plate

• Arrange a slice of cake with a few berries and a dollop of whipped cream for an elegant dessert plate.

Use Decorative Serving Plates

• Present the cake on a decorative cake stand or platter to make it the centerpiece of your table.

How to Perfect Strawberry Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting

Perfecting your Strawberry Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting involves attention to detail and careful techniques. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs, cream cheese, and butter are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.

• Sift Dry Ingredients: Sifting the cake mix and powdered sugar helps eliminate lumps, resulting in a smoother batter and frosting.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.

• Cool Cakes Completely: Allow the cakes to cool fully before frosting; this prevents melting the frosting and keeps it looking neat.

• Adjust Sweetness: Taste your frosting as you go. If it’s too sweet, add a pinch of salt or more cream cheese for balance.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting

Pairing side dishes with your Strawberry Cake can create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the cake.
2. Minted Yogurt: A dollop of yogurt mixed with mint adds a tangy complement that brightens up each bite.
3. Vanilla Pudding: Smooth vanilla pudding offers a creamy contrast that pairs well with fruity flavors.
4. Chocolate Mousse: The richness of chocolate mousse creates an indulgent combination when served alongside the cake.
5. Lemon Sorbet: A light lemon sorbet cleanses the palate and adds refreshing citrus notes.
6. Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses can balance sweetness while enhancing flavors through contrasting textures.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, and avoiding common mistakes will help you create the perfect Strawberry Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting.

• Skipping the Room Temperature Ingredients – Using cold ingredients can lead to a dense cake. Always bring eggs, butter, and cream cheese to room temperature before mixing.

• Overmixing the Batter – Mixing too much can make the cake tough. Beat just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.

• Not Measuring Properly – Accurate measurements are essential for baking. Use dry measuring cups for dry ingredients and liquid measuring cups for wet ingredients.

• Ignoring Oven Temperature – Every oven is different. Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature for even baking.

• Frosting Too Soon – If the cake layers are warm, the frosting could melt. Always cool cakes completely on wire racks before frosting.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep layers separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Strawberry Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting

• Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Strawberry Cake with Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm slices for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat individual slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop – Place in a pan over low heat, covering it lightly until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use frozen strawberries in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Just thaw and drain excess moisture before using them in your batter.

How do I make this cake gluten-free?

Substitute the white cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix that suits your taste, ensuring all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

What can I substitute for cream cheese in frosting?

You can use mascarpone cheese or a plant-based cream cheese alternative if you’re looking for a different flavor or need a dairy-free option.

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 three days or freeze it for longer storage.

Can I add other fruits to the cake?

Absolutely! You can incorporate other fruits like blueberries or raspberries into the batter or as garnish on top of the frosting.

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 preferences. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for any celebration or simply as a sweet treat!