The Sweet Origins of Strawberry Cakes

Strawberry cakes have long been a favorite in Southern American baking traditions, especially for spring and summer gatherings. Using fresh berries or strawberry puree, bakers transformed simple cakes into fruity desserts that celebrated seasonal produce. Over time, cake mixes and flavored gelatin made it easier for home cooks to recreate these bakery-style treats with less effort. This Strawberry Glazed Strawberry Cake is the perfect example—soft, moist, and bursting with berry flavor, it combines the charm of homemade baking with the convenience of quick preparation.

Why Strawberries Make This Cake So Special

Strawberries aren’t just sweet and juicy—they’re also packed with vitamin C, antioxidants, and natural sweetness that enhance baked goods. Adding strawberry gelatin deepens the color and intensifies the fruity taste, while mashed strawberries bring moisture and richness to the batter. The glaze, made from strawberry puree and powdered sugar, creates a glossy finish that seals in flavor. This combination ensures every bite is vibrant, refreshing, and irresistible. Whether you use fresh or frozen strawberries, the result is always a moist cake full of berry goodness.

A Dessert for Every Occasion

This Strawberry Glazed Strawberry Cake is versatile and perfect for birthdays, potlucks, Valentine’s Day, or Easter celebrations. It can be baked in a simple 9×13-inch pan, turned into cupcakes for parties, or layered into a show-stopping centerpiece. The light pink hue and glossy glaze make it visually stunning, while the flavor appeals to both kids and adults. Pair it with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a hot cup of coffee for the ultimate dessert experience. It’s an easy recipe that delivers bakery-quality results every time.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 box strawberry cake mix
• 1 box (3 oz) strawberry gelatin
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• ½ cup milk
• ½ cup mashed strawberries (fresh or frozen, thawed)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Strawberry Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2–3 tbsp strawberry puree
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line cupcake tins with paper liners.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix and strawberry gelatin powder. Stir well to evenly blend the dry ingredients.

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients

Add eggs, vegetable oil, milk, mashed strawberries, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Beat with a hand or stand mixer on medium speed until the batter is smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely before glazing.

Step 5: Prepare & Drizzle the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, strawberry puree, and vanilla extract until smooth and pourable. Drizzle over the cooled cake. For extra presentation, garnish with fresh strawberry slices.

Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Cooling Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Servings: 12

Nutrition Information (per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 15g
• Sugar: 32g
• Fiber: 1g

Strawberry Glazed Strawberry Cake

Q1: Can I make this cake with fresh strawberries only, without gelatin?

Yes! You can replace the gelatin with extra fresh strawberry puree. However, the gelatin helps intensify both the flavor and the vibrant pink color, so your cake may be lighter in taste and color.

Q2: Can I turn this recipe into cupcakes?

Absolutely. Simply divide the batter evenly into lined cupcake tins and bake at the same temperature for 18–22 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as smaller cakes bake faster.

Q3: How should I store leftover strawberry cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. To maintain freshness, cover it with plastic wrap before chilling.

Q4: Can I freeze this cake?

Yes. Bake and cool the cake completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and glaze before serving.

Q5: What pairs well with strawberry cake?

Strawberry cake goes perfectly with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a fresh berry salad. For drinks, pair it with coffee, black tea, or a light sparkling wine for a festive touch.