Try This Sweet Strawberry Sheet Cake Recipe Today

Sweet summer memories bloom with this delectable strawberry sheet cake that captures the essence of sun-ripened fruit.

Bakers adore this easy homemade fresh strawberry sheet cake recipe for its vibrant flavor and moist, tender crumb.

Bursting with natural strawberry goodness, this dessert brings a delightful twist to classic cake traditions.

Each slice promises a perfect balance of sweetness and freshness that melts in your mouth.

The simple ingredients and straightforward method make this cake a go-to treat for any occasion.

Rich, pink-hued layers decorated with fresh strawberries create a stunning centerpiece that will impress everyone at the table.

Prepare to indulge in a slice of pure strawberry bliss that celebrates the best of seasonal baking.

Fun Flavor Combos for This Strawberry Classic

• Gluten-Free Strawberry Delight: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring the cake remains moist and tender for those with wheat sensitivities.
• Vegan Berry Celebration: Swap butter for coconut oil, use egg replacer or mashed banana, and select a plant-based buttermilk alternative like almond milk mixed with apple cider vinegar.
• Low-Sugar Berry Sensation: Substitute sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia, reduce jello quantity, and incorporate more fresh strawberry puree for natural sweetness.
• Dairy-Free Strawberry Dream: Use dairy-free butter alternatives, coconut milk instead of buttermilk, and maintain the rich strawberry flavor while accommodating lactose-intolerant individuals.

FAQs

• Why use strawberry jello in the cake batter?

The jello adds intense strawberry flavor, helps create a vibrant color, and contributes to the cake’s soft, moist texture by introducing additional sugar and gelatin properties.

• Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?

Yes, thaw and drain frozen strawberries completely before pureeing. Ensure they’re pat dry to prevent excess moisture from affecting the cake’s consistency.

• Is buttermilk necessary for this recipe?

Buttermilk is crucial as it provides tenderness, helps activate baking soda, and creates a lighter crumb. If unavailable, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk.

• How do I know if I'm overmixing the batter?

Stop mixing as soon as the dry ingredients are just incorporated. Overmixing can develop gluten, resulting in a tough, dense cake instead of a light, tender texture.

Why This Sheet Cake Is Bursting With Fresh Strawberry Flavor

• Enjoy an incredible fruity twist that transforms a classic cake into a vibrant, delightful dessert packed with fresh strawberry goodness.
• Perfect for bakers of all skill levels, this recipe offers simple steps and clear instructions that guarantee a delicious result every single time.
• Crowd-pleasing cake that appeals to kids and adults alike, making it an ideal dessert for gatherings, celebrations, or just because you want something sweet.
• Minimal ingredients and straightforward mixing technique mean you can whip up this delectable strawberry cake without spending hours in the kitchen.

All the Ingredients for This Easy Sheet Cake

• All-Purpose Flour: The primary structural component that provides the cake's foundation and texture.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a tender cake crumb.
• Butter: Provides rich flavor and contributes to the cake's moist and soft texture.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add structure to the cake.

• Fresh Strawberries: Adds natural fruity flavor and creates a beautiful pink color throughout the cake.

• Buttermilk, Vanilla Extract, Strawberry Jello: Work together to enhance moisture, provide extra flavor, and create a soft cake texture.

• Baking Powder, Baking Soda, Salt: Ensure proper rise and balance the cake's overall flavor profile.

Steps to Bake a Moist and Fruity Strawberry Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

Position your oven rack right in the center and warm it up to 350°F.

Grab a baking dish and coat it thoroughly with non-stick spray or butter to ensure your cake slides out effortlessly.

Step 2: Create a Fluffy Butter Base

In a spacious mixing bowl, blend softened butter, strawberry jello, and sugar.

Whip these ingredients together for 2-3 minutes until the mixture becomes light, airy, and looks like a cloud of deliciousness.

Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla

Add eggs one at a time, mixing completely after each addition.

This technique helps create a smooth, even texture.

Pour in vanilla extract and stir until everything is beautifully combined.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt

Whisk these together thoroughly to eliminate any potential lumps.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour half of the dry ingredient mixture into the butter blend.

Mix gently.

Add buttermilk and stir well.

Fold in the remaining dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Don’t overmix!

Step 6: Add Strawberry Magic

Gently fold fresh strawberry puree into the batter.

Watch as the mixture transforms into a beautiful pink hue with an irresistible fruity aroma.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Transfer the batter into your prepared baking dish.

Slide it into the preheated oven and bake for 38-42 minutes.

Around the 38-minute mark, insert a toothpick into the center.

If it comes out clean, your cake is ready!

Allow the cake to cool completely before adding frosting.

Helpful Tips for a Soft and Even Crumb

• Add an extra tablespoon of strawberry jello powder to intensify the cake's fruity profile and create a more vibrant pink color.
• Toss fresh strawberry pieces in a light dusting of flour before folding into the batter to prevent them from sinking during baking.
• Use room temperature ingredients to ensure a smoother batter and more even cake texture that stays incredibly moist.
• Swap traditional cream cheese frosting with a light whipped strawberry buttercream for an extra burst of fresh strawberry flavor.
• Press gently in the center of the cake – it should spring back when fully baked, indicating perfect moisture and texture.

How to Keep Sheet Cake Fresh and Frosted

• Store the cake in an airtight container or cover with plastic wrap. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, ensuring the cake stays moist and fresh.
• Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Slice the cake and place on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in 10-15 second intervals, checking to prevent overheating. Stop when the cake is warm but not hot.
• Preheat oven to 300°F. Place cake slices on a baking sheet, cover loosely with foil. Warm for 10-15 minutes, watching carefully to maintain moisture and prevent drying out.

What Goes Great With This Sweet Sheet Cake

• Pair Creamy Vanilla Cream Cheese Frosting: Whip up a smooth, tangy cream cheese frosting that perfectly complements the strawberry cake's sweetness. The rich, velvety texture balances the cake's light and fruity profile.
• Suggest Sparkling Rosé Wine Pairing: Uncork a chilled glass of rosé to elevate the dessert experience. Its delicate bubbles and subtle berry notes harmonize beautifully with the strawberry flavors in the cake.
• Recommend Fresh Mint Garnish: Sprinkle fresh mint leaves on top for a bright, crisp contrast. The herb's coolness cuts through the cake's sweetness and adds a sophisticated touch to the presentation.
• Boost with Candied Strawberry Topping: Decorate the cake with homemade candied strawberries for an extra burst of fruity intensity. These glossy, sugar-coated berries provide a delightful crunch and visual appeal.

Easy Homemade Fresh Strawberry Sheet Cake Recipe

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4.9 from 29 reviews

• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Strawberry sheet cake brings summer’s sweetness to your dessert table with a delightful blend of fresh berries and moist, tender crumb. Rich strawberry flavors and creamy frosting create a perfect treat you’ll want to share with friends and family.

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Ingredients

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Main Cake Ingredients:

• 2 sticks (1 cup) butter, softened
• 1 3/4 cups sugar
• 2 1/2 cups flour
• 3 eggs, room temperature
• 1 box (3 ounces) strawberry jello

Liquid and Flavoring Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup fresh strawberry puree
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Leavening and Seasoning Ingredients:

• 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Frosting Ingredients:

• 1/2 package (4 ounces) softened cream cheese
• 1/2 stick (1/4 cup) butter
• 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup fresh strawberry puree

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Instructions

1. Position the oven rack in the middle and heat to 350°F. Coat the baking dish thoroughly with non-stick spray or butter to ensure easy cake removal.
2. Cream the softened butter, strawberry jello, and sugar in a large mixing bowl for 2-3 minutes until the mixture becomes light and airy, creating a smooth base for the cake.
3. Incorporate eggs individually, fully blending each one before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor profile.
4. In a separate bowl, sift together the dry ingredients – flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt – to guarantee uniform distribution and prevent potential lumps.
5. Introduce half of the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with buttermilk. Gently mix until just combined, avoiding overmixing to maintain the cake’s delicate texture.
6. Carefully fold in the fresh strawberry puree, which will transform the batter into a soft pink hue and infuse a vibrant fruity aroma.
7. Transfer the batter to the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly. Bake for 38-42 minutes, testing with a toothpick at 38 minutes. When the toothpick emerges clean, remove from the oven and allow the cake to cool completely before applying frosting.

Notes

• Choose room temperature ingredients to ensure smooth, even mixing and optimal cake texture.
• Avoid overmixing the batter, which can lead to a tough, dense cake – stop mixing as soon as ingredients are just combined.
• For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend that contains xanthan gum for better structure.
• Enhance strawberry flavor by adding finely chopped fresh strawberries to the batter or using strawberry extract alongside the jello for a more intense fruit profile.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 40 g
• Sodium: 160 mg
• Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 54 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg