The Best Strawberry Cake Ever

This ultra-moist, bursting-with-flavor strawberry cake is a showstopper—combining the ease of a box mix with the fresh taste of real strawberries. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, it’s perfect for birthdays, summer gatherings, or anytime you crave a fruity, decadent dessert.

Why This Recipe Works

Intense strawberry flavor – Gelatin + fresh strawberries pack a punch

Unbelievably moist – Oil and strawberry juice keep it tender
Cream cheese frosting – Tangy balance to the sweet cake
Easy but impressive – Tastes homemade without the fuss

Ingredients

For the Cake

• 1 box (15.25 oz) white cake mix (like Betty Crocker or Duncan Hines)
• 1 package (3 oz) strawberry gelatin (Jell-O)
• 1 cup mashed strawberries (with juices, fresh or thawed frozen)
• ¾ cup vegetable oil
• 4 large eggs
• ½ cup water

For the Frosting

• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• ¾ cup mashed strawberries, drained (reserve juice for adjusting consistency)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep & Mix the Cake

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round pans (or line with parchment).
2. In a large bowl, whisk cake mix and dry gelatin to combine.
3. Add mashed strawberries, oil, eggs, and water. Beat with a mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes until smooth.

2. Bake & Cool

4. Divide batter evenly between pans. Bake 25–30 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Cool in pans 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

3. Make the Frosting

6. Beat butter and cream cheese until fluffy (~3 minutes).
7. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until smooth.
8. Fold in drained strawberries (add 1 tsp reserved juice if too thick).

4. Assemble

9. Frost cooled cake layers. For extra flair, garnish with sliced strawberries or white chocolate shavings.

Pro Tips for Success

Use ripe strawberries – The redder, the better for flavor and color.
Don’t over-drain strawberries – A little juice in the cake batter keeps it moist.
Chill frosting 15 minutes – Firms up for easier spreading.
For even layers – Weigh batter with a kitchen scale (about 1 lb 10 oz per pan).

Variations

• Strawberry shortcake version – Add a layer of fresh strawberries between cake layers.
• Lemon twist – Replace water with lemon juice and add 1 tsp lemon zest to frosting.
• Pink velvet – Add 1 tbsp red food gel for vibrant color.

Storage & Serving

• Room temp: Up to 2 days (covered).
• Fridge: Up to 5 days (bring to room temp before serving).
• Freeze: Unfrosted layers wrap well for 3 months.

FAQ

Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes! Thaw and drain slightly (reserve juice for batter).

Why gelatin?
It amplifies strawberry flavor and improves texture.

Can I make cupcakes?
Yes! Bake 18–20 minutes at same temperature.

Final Thoughts

This cake delivers maximum strawberry flavor with minimal effort—ideal for bakers of all levels. The cream cheese frosting takes it over the top!

Want a from-scratch version? Try replacing the cake mix with:

• 2 cups flour
• 1½ cups sugar
• 1½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt

Let me know if you’d like the full homemade recipe! Enjoy!

More Easy TikTok Recipes to Try:

• 4-Ingredient Heath Toffee Cookies – A sweet and crunchy treat that’s ready in no time!
• Fruity Pebbles Cookies – Fun, colorful, and perfect for dessert lovers.
• TikTok Baked Feta Pasta
• TikTok Potato Bake

Print