If you are craving a moist, flavorful dessert that brings the brightness and sweetness of fresh strawberries right into your kitchen, then you have got to try this Strawberry Box Cake Recipe. It’s an effortlessly delightful way to enjoy a classic strawberry cake that’s bursting with fresh fruit and topped with luscious frosting. This cake combines pantry-friendly ingredients with fresh strawberries for a texture and flavor that feels both nostalgic and special. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a casual weekend treat, or just because, this Strawberry Box Cake Recipe will quickly become a staple in your dessert repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Strawberry Box Cake Recipe lies in its simple but vibrant ingredients. Each component plays a key role in crafting the perfect balance of moistness, flavor, and that irresistible strawberry aroma. From the boxed cake mix that lays down the base, to the fresh strawberries that add juicy bursts of sweetness, every ingredient is easy to find yet essential to the final taste and texture.
- 1 box strawberry cake mix: Provides the convenient and flavorful base for your cake, making baking quick and simple.
- 3 large eggs: Help bind the ingredients together for structure and tender crumb.
- ½ cup vegetable oil: Adds moisture and keeps the cake wonderfully soft and rich.
- 1 cup water: Balances the batter for perfect consistency; can be substituted for milk for extra creaminess.
- 1 cup chopped fresh strawberries: Introduce natural sweetness, color, and juicy texture right into the cake batter.
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional): Enhances overall flavor with a warm, fragrant note.
- 1 container (16 oz) strawberry or vanilla frosting: Adds the creamy, sweet finishing touch for frosting the cake.
- Extra fresh strawberries for topping (optional): Makes the presentation pop with natural color and freshness.
How to Make Strawberry Box Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
First things first — preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your 9×13-inch baking dish or two 8-inch round cake pans. Getting the pans ready ahead of time ensures your cake will come out perfectly without sticking and brown evenly on the edges.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a large bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and water. Use a hand mixer or whisk to beat the mixture for about 2 minutes until it becomes smooth and evenly blended. This step is crucial because a well-mixed batter leads to a consistent and light cake texture.
Step 3: Fold in Fresh Strawberries and Vanilla
Gently fold in the chopped fresh strawberries and the optional vanilla extract into the batter. Folding them in rather than mixing vigorously keeps the strawberries from breaking down too much, preserving those lovely bursts of fresh fruit in every bite.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan(s) and place them in the oven. Bake according to the package directions — typically 28 to 32 minutes for a 9×13 pan or 25 to 30 minutes for the round pans. Keep an eye on the cake and check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your cake is ready.
Step 5: Cool and Frost
Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting it. This prevents the frosting from melting and sliding off. Once cool, spread your choice of strawberry or vanilla frosting all over the top. Don’t be shy to lavish it on — the frosting is what brings all the flavors together in delightful harmony.
How to Serve Strawberry Box Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Decorate your frosted cake with extra fresh strawberries for a visually stunning and fresh-tasting garnish. Adding slices or whole berries elevates the cake’s look and brings additional texture and freshness with every bite. You can also sprinkle a little powdered sugar or add a few mint leaves for a pop of color and aroma.
Side Dishes
Strawberry Box Cake Recipe pairs amazingly well with light accompaniments like a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Fresh berry compote or a side of citrusy fruit salad will contrast the cake’s sweetness and add a refreshing balance to your dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the traditional slice! Serve the cake as cupcakes by baking the batter in lined muffin tins and frosting each individually. Or create a trifle by layering cake cubes, strawberries, and whipped cream in a glass bowl, making it perfect for gatherings or special occasions where guests can help themselves.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep leftover Strawberry Box Cake Recipe at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days, which is perfect if you plan to enjoy it quickly. For longer freshness, refrigerate the cake and make sure it’s wrapped well to prevent it from drying out.
Freezing
If you want to save the cake for a later date, Strawberry Box Cake Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to protect it from freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating
While cake is usually best served at room temperature, you can warm leftover slices slightly in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds. This refreshes the softness and enhances the strawberry aroma, making it taste freshly baked once again.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh in this recipe?
Yes, you can, but it’s best to thaw and drain them well to avoid extra moisture that may affect the cake’s texture. Fresh strawberries provide the best burst of flavor and texture.
Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version of this Strawberry Box Cake Recipe, look for a gluten-free strawberry cake mix and ensure all other ingredients meet your dietary needs.
Can I substitute the vegetable oil with something healthier?
Absolutely! You can replace vegetable oil with melted coconut oil, or applesauce for a lower-fat option. Keep in mind these substitutions may slightly alter the cake’s texture and flavor.
How do I prevent the fresh strawberries in the batter from sinking?
Toss the chopped strawberries lightly in a bit of flour before folding them into the batter. This helps distribute them evenly and prevents sinking during baking.
Can I make this cake into cupcakes?
Definitely! Pour the batter into lined muffin tins about two-thirds full and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18 to 22 minutes. Cupcakes are a fun way to serve individual-sized treats.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting and joyful about baking and sharing this Strawberry Box Cake Recipe. It’s simple, quick, and packed with fresh strawberry flavor, making it a crowd-pleaser every time. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe is sure to bring smiles and happy moments. So grab your mixing bowl, fresh strawberries, and start baking your own little slice of sweet summertime today!
Print
Strawberry Box Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Strawberry Box Cake is a delightful and easy-to-make dessert that combines the convenience of a boxed cake mix with the fresh flavor of chopped strawberries. Perfectly moist with a sweet strawberry frosting and optional fresh strawberry topping, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s simple enough for everyday baking yet special enough for celebrations.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 1 box strawberry cake mix
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup chopped fresh strawberries
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Frosting and Garnish
- 1 container (16 oz) strawberry or vanilla frosting
- Extra fresh strawberries for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or two 8-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking.
- Mix cake batter: In a large bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and water. Beat with a hand mixer or whisk vigorously for about 2 minutes until the batter is smooth and well blended.
- Add fresh strawberries and vanilla: Fold in the chopped fresh strawberries gently along with vanilla extract if using, ensuring the fruit is evenly distributed without overmixing.
- Pour and bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan(s). Bake according to package directions, usually 28 to 32 minutes for a 9×13-inch pan or 25 to 30 minutes for round pans. Test doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center — it should come out clean.
- Cool and frost: Allow the cake to cool completely to room temperature before spreading the strawberry or vanilla frosting evenly over the top.
- Garnish and serve: Decorate with extra fresh strawberries if desired, then slice and serve your delicious homemade strawberry cake.
Notes
- For enhanced flavor, substitute the water with milk or strawberry puree in the cake batter.
- To make cupcakes, fill lined muffin tins two-thirds full and bake for 18 to 22 minutes.
- Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
