Name: Strawberry Layer Cake with Strawberry Frosting Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 34 min
Total time: 2 h 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (15-ounce) box white cake mix; 1 (3-ounce) box strawberry gelatin; 4 large eggs; 1 cup canola or vegetable oil; 1 cup finely diced fresh strawberries (about 1 pint); 1/4 cup cream or half-and-half (milk or water may be substituted); 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks, softened); Heaping 1/2 cup strawberry preserves (thick jam with strawberry chunks); 1 teaspoon almond or vanilla extract; 4 cups confectioners’ sugar; 1 to 4 tablespoons cream or half-and-half (as needed for consistency); Red food coloring (optional, as necessary); Fresh strawberries (optional for garnishing)

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 68 reviews

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that celebrates the bright, sweet flavor of fresh strawberries in every rich bite, you have to try this Strawberry Layer Cake with Strawberry Frosting Recipe. This cake is everything you want in a celebration treat: tender, moist layers infused with real strawberry pieces, perfectly complemented by a luscious, fluffy frosting bursting with fresh preserves. It’s a stunning centerpiece that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat, and its inviting pink hue makes it impossible to resist from first glance to last crumb.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A slice of pink layered cake sits on a white plate with a floral pattern, placed on a white marbled surface. The cake has three layers: the bottom and middle are soft, moist pink sponge layers, while the top and between layers are smooth, light pink frosting. On the top center of the cake, there is a halved fresh strawberry with its green stem still attached. Some strawberry crumbs are visible near the plate, adding texture to the scene. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in building the perfect texture and flavor profile of your strawberry cake. From the light, airy white cake mix to the fresh diced strawberries bringing natural sweetness and color, each component is simple yet essential to create a harmonious dessert experience.

White cake mix (15-ounce box): Forms the tender, fluffy foundation of the cake.
Strawberry gelatin (3-ounce box): Adds a subtle strawberry flavor and helps enhance the cake’s pink tint.
Large eggs (4): Provide structure and richness to the cake layers.
Canola or vegetable oil (1 cup): Keeps the cake moist without overpowering flavors.
Fresh strawberries (1 cup, finely diced): Infuse bursts of juicy, authentic berry flavor throughout the cake.
Cream or half-and-half (1/4 cup): Adds tenderness and helps keep the cake moist; milk or water can substitute in a pinch.
Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): Forms the creamy base of the decadent strawberry frosting.
Strawberry preserves (heaping 1/2 cup): Offers concentrated fruity flavor with delightful texture in the frosting.
Almond or vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the cake’s aroma and deepens its flavor profile.
Confectioners’ sugar (4 cups): Sweetens and lightens the frosting to a perfectly fluffy finish.
Cream or half-and-half (1 to 4 tablespoons): Adjusts frosting consistency for easy spreading and smoothness.
Red food coloring (optional): Amplifies the pink color to make this cake as visually bright as it is tasty.
Fresh strawberries (optional, for garnish): Adds a fresh, inviting touch when presenting the finished cake.

How to Make Strawberry Layer Cake with Strawberry Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Pans

Start by heating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by spraying them with floured cooking spray or greasing and flouring well—this step ensures your cakes come out clean and smooth without sticking. If you prefer a single-layer version, a 9×13-inch pan works perfectly too.

Step 2: Whip Together the Cake Batter

In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment—or with a handheld electric mixer in a large bowl—combine the white cake mix, strawberry gelatin, eggs, oil, and cream (or substitute). Beat on medium-high until the mixture is completely smooth and well blended, which usually takes around three minutes. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides occasionally to get every bit mixed in for even texture.

Step 3: Fold in Fresh Strawberries

Gently add the finely diced fresh strawberries to the batter and fold them in with a spatula or beat on low speed just until incorporated. These fresh berry pieces add bursts of juicy flavor and create delightful texture contrast in every slice.

Step 4: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans and place them in the oven. Bake for 30 to 34 minutes, or until the cakes are done—check by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs clinging to it. This baking time gives you a perfectly cooked, tender crumb without dryness.

Step 5: Cool the Cakes Properly

Once out of the oven, let the cakes cool for about 15 minutes in their pans on a wire rack. Then invert the pans carefully to release the cakes and let them cool completely on the racks. Full cooling is crucial before frosting so your frosting doesn’t melt and slide off the layers later.

Step 6: Make the Irresistible Strawberry Frosting

While the cakes cool, whip up the frosting by beating softened butter in your mixer until smooth. Add strawberry preserves, extract, and 3 cups of confectioners’ sugar and beat until well combined. Next, add the final cup of sugar and continue beating for 2 to 3 minutes until the frosting is light, fluffy, and creamy. If it feels too thick, drizzle in 1 to 4 tablespoons cream or half-and-half to reach a spreadable consistency.

Step 7: Add Color and Assemble the Cake

If you want a prettier pink frosting, add a few drops of red food coloring and mix until you reach your desired hue. Then spread about one-third of the frosting on top of one cake layer. Gently place the second layer on top, add another third of the frosting, and smooth it out. Finish by covering the sides with the remaining frosting for a flawlessly polished look.

Step 8: Garnish Before Serving

Optionally top your cake with fresh strawberries sliced or whole for a fresh and inviting presentation. These fruity accents make every slice feel like a special treat.

How to Serve Strawberry Layer Cake with Strawberry Frosting Recipe

A round cake with three layers of pink sponge, each layer divided by a thin spread of pink frosting. The outside is fully covered with smooth, light pink frosting. On top, there is a whole bright red strawberry in the center surrounded by six halved strawberries, all placed on a white marbled surface. More whole strawberries are placed around the cake base. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding fresh strawberries around the base or on top of the cake amps up the visual appeal while enhancing the strawberry flavor theme. You can also sprinkle edible flower petals or lightly shredded white chocolate for an elegant touch that’s sure to impress your guests.

Side Dishes

This cake shines brightly as the star, but pairing it with vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream adds creamy richness that beautifully balances the sweet, fruity layers. Fresh berry salads or a simple mint garnish make refreshing companions on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut your Strawberry Layer Cake with Strawberry Frosting Recipe into generous slices and serve on pretty pastel plates for a springtime vibe. For parties, present mini slices atop decorative cake stands or use cake domes for an extra special reveal moment. Personalize by adding hand-lettered toppers or themed candles to your creation!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once frosted, this cake keeps beautifully stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep it covered well to maintain moisture and prevent the frosting from drying out or absorbing fridge odors.

Freezing

You can freeze the unfrosted cake layers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Thaw completely in the refrigerator before frosting and assembling. If you have leftovers of the finished cake, wrap individual slices carefully to freeze for up to 1 month, then thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

Reheating

Strawberry cake is best served chilled or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t necessary. If you prefer, gently warm a slice in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds to take off the chill, but avoid overheating to keep the frosting from melting.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh in this Strawberry Layer Cake with Strawberry Frosting Recipe?

Fresh strawberries are ideal for this recipe because they provide the best texture and flavor. However, if you must use frozen, make sure to thaw and drain them very well to avoid adding too much moisture which can affect the cake batter’s consistency.

Is this cake suitable for toddlers or young children?

Absolutely! This Strawberry Layer Cake with Strawberry Frosting Recipe is mild, sweet, and full of natural fruit flavor, making it a perfect treat for kids’ birthdays or special occasions. Just be mindful of any food coloring sensitivities and consider omitting it if preferred.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version, substitute the white cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix of similar style and follow the rest of the recipe as instructed. Just double-check that the strawberry gelatin and other ingredients are also gluten-free.

How do I prevent the frosting from tasting too sweet?

Balancing the sweetness of the frosting can be done by using high-quality strawberry preserves with natural sugar levels and adding a small pinch of salt to the frosting mix. Also, controlling the quantity of confectioners’ sugar and adjusting with cream helps achieve a fluffier, less sugary texture.

What’s the best way to keep the cake layers even and flat?

After baking, if the tops of the cakes domed, gently level them with a serrated knife before frosting. Cooling the cakes completely ensures less crumb mixing with the frosting and cleaner, even layers when stacking your Strawberry Layer Cake with Strawberry Frosting Recipe.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Layer Cake with Strawberry Frosting Recipe is a heartfelt, joyful way to celebrate the luscious flavors of summer strawberries all year round. Whether you’re making it for a birthday, a family gathering, or simply because you deserve a beautiful indulgence, this cake never fails to dazzle and delight. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll quickly become one of your most treasured dessert recipes to bake and share!