Strawberry Cake Recipe

Introduction

Try this simply divine, super moist strawberry cake recipe from scratch. Often referred to as the Southern strawberry cake recipe or jello cake, it’s a crowd-pleaser with its pink color and mild strawberry flavor, thanks to the addition of strawberry-flavored gelatin.

Ingredients and Variations

You can make my strawberry cake recipe with whole milk or a combination of milk and strawberry puree for an intense strawberry flavor. Adding a bit of strawberry puree into the cream cheese frosting is also a great touch. Both fresh and frozen strawberries work well for the puree.

Cake Preparation Tips

Choosing Shortening or Butter

I recommend making the batter using shortening for a more tender crumb. If you use all butter, remember to refrigerate the cake if it’s not consumed immediately.

Occasions and Serving Sizes

Strawberry cake is perfect for Valentine’s Day, baby & bridal showers, or any pink-themed party. This recipe is suitable for two 8″ or 9″ pans, and I’ve also included a variation for two 6″ cakes, perfect for smaller events.

Benefits of Homemade Cake

Homemade strawberry cake has less sugar and preservatives than commercial box mixes and store-made cakes.

Baking Instructions

Oven Preparation

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Coat the bottom of your pan with shortening, top with a parchment round, and use baking spray with flour.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Combine Strawberry Jello: Start by combining the packet of strawberry Jello.
2. Prepare Eggs: Scramble the eggs.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients: Mix flour, salt, and baking powder with a wire whisk before sifting. This ensures even distribution throughout the batter.
4. Cream the Butter: Cream the butter and/or shortening in a mixing bowl, then slowly add the sugar/jello mixture. Aim for a light and fluffy consistency.
5. Add Vanilla Extract: Incorporate the vanilla extract into the mixture.
6. Incorporate Eggs: Drizzle the eggs into the mixture and beat on low speed until fully absorbed.
7. Ensure Even Mixing: Stop to scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl.
8. Alternate Dry and Wet Ingredients: Start with a third of the dry ingredients, then alternate with the milk, ensuring to mix well after each addition.
9. Bake: Divide the batter among your pans and bake. Two 6″ cakes take 30-35 minutes, and two 8″ or 9″ cakes take 40-45 minutes. Check the cake at 27 minutes to avoid over-baking.
10. Cooling: Allow the cakes to cool on a wire rack for 15 minutes before turning them out. They must cool completely before frosting.

Cream Cheese Frosting

Try out my easy and delicious cream cheese frosting to complete your strawberry cake.

Homemade Cake Recipes

Ingredients for Two 8″ or 9″ Cakes

• 2 cups cake flour, sifted
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup strawberry Jello (from a standard 3 oz packet)
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup butter (1 stick)
• 1/2 cup vegetable shortening (e.g., Crisco)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 cups whole milk (or 3/4 cups strawberry puree and 3/4 cups milk)

Ingredients for Two 6″ Cakes or One 9″ Round

• 1 cup cake flour, sifted
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/8 cup strawberry Jello (from a standard 3 oz packet)
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup vegetable shortening (e.g., Crisco)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 3/4 cup whole milk (or equal parts strawberry puree and milk)

Enjoy your homemade strawberry cake, a healthier and more delicious alternative to store-bought options!

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