Name: Easy Strawberry Easter Cake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 box White Cake Mix (Bake per box instructions either as two layers or as a sheet cake.); 10 pieces Strawberries (Fresh and large, these are essential for layering and decoration.); 5 oz Candy Melts (White or brown, these are melted and used for coating the strawberries.); 8 oz Cool Whip (This light and airy topping creates a creamy layer between the cake and on top.); 8 oz Cream Cheese (Also at room temperature, it combines with the cool whip for a rich frosting.); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (Sweetens the frosting, balancing the flavors perfectly.); 1 Tb Vanilla Extract (Adds depth of flavor, enriching the overall taste.); 2 tsp Almond Extract (A little goes a long way to enhance the sweetness.); ¼ Cup Milk (Can use cream if needed, may need as much as ½ cup to achieve desired consistency.); 1 Pint Strawberries (Fresh, perfect for making a strawberry mixture for filling and garnishing.); 1 Cup Granulated Sugar (Used to macerate the strawberries, enhancing their natural sweetness.); 2 Tb Strawberry Jam (Adds extra flavor and moisture, a nice touch for those who love strawberries.)

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There’s something truly special about baking during the spring, and for me, that means making an Easy Strawberry Easter Cake. This cake has become a family tradition that I cherish, a delightful way to celebrate the festive season while making memories in the kitchen. Each time I whip it up, I’m reminded of my childhood – the vibrant colors of fresh strawberries, the sweet aroma filling the air, and the excited chatter of family gathering around the table. With its fluffy layers and rich strawberry flavor, this cake is not just a dessert; it’s a centerpiece for joyous occasions. From birthdays to Easter brunch, this cake always brings a smile.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Hard

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
3 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
14 g

Tools Used:
Wooden Spoon, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet

The Charm of This Easy Strawberry Easter Cake

It’s Incredibly Simple to Make

One of the reasons I absolutely love the Easy Strawberry Easter Cake is its simplicity. The base is a classic white cake mix, which means you can spend less time measuring and more time enjoying the process. Everything comes together in a matter of minutes, making it an ideal choice for even novice bakers. Trust me, if you can stir and bake, you can master this cake!

Fresh Ingredients Make All the Difference

Using fresh strawberries is key to elevating the flavor of this cake. I always opt for the ripest, juiciest strawberries I can find because they bring a burst of sweetness that pairs perfectly with the creamy frosting. The vibrant red color of the strawberries not only looks beautiful but also gives the cake a fresh and fruity taste that’s irresistible.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This cake is incredibly versatile. While it shines at Easter, it’s perfect for summer barbecues, children’s birthday parties, or even as a light dessert after a hearty meal. It’s easy to dress up with decorations or serve as-is, making it suitable for both casual and formal gatherings.

Memories with Family

Baking the Easy Strawberry Easter Cake is more than just a recipe; it’s a chance to create memories with family. I love involving my kids in the process, teaching them how to dip strawberries in candy melts or layer the cake. These moments in the kitchen are priceless and often lead to laughter, fun, and an overwhelming sense of togetherness.

Not Just a Cake, But a Celebration

Every slice of this cake represents a moment of joy, celebration, and love. It’s not just a dessert; it’s a symbol of family traditions and the beautiful memories we create together. I encourage you to try making this cake and share it with loved ones. You’ll find that it’s not only delicious but also a wonderful way to celebrate life’s special moments.

Ingredient List for Easy Strawberry Easter Cake

When it comes to creating the Easy Strawberry Easter Cake, the ingredients are straightforward yet full of flavor. The key players include fresh strawberries, a fluffy white cake mix, and a creamy frosting made with cool whip and cream cheese. Each ingredient plays a vital role in achieving that perfect balance of sweetness and texture, bringing the cake to life.

1 White Cake Mix – Bake per box instructions either as two layers or as a sheet cake. This serves as the fluffy base of your cake.
10 Strawberries – Fresh and large, these are essential for layering and decoration.
5 oz Candy Melts – White or brown, these are melted and used for coating the strawberries, adding a touch of sweetness.
8 oz Cool Whip – This light and airy topping creates a creamy layer between the cake and on top.
8 oz Cream Cheese – Also at room temperature, it combines with the cool whip for a rich, creamy frosting.
1 Cup Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the frosting, balancing the flavors perfectly.
1 Tb Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor, enriching the overall taste.
2 tsp Almond Extract – A little goes a long way to enhance the sweetness.
¼ Cup Milk – Can use cream if needed, may need as much as ½ cup to achieve desired consistency.
1 Pint Strawberries – Fresh, perfect for making a strawberry mixture for filling and garnishing.
1 Cup Granulated Sugar – Used to macerate the strawberries, enhancing their natural sweetness.
2 Tb Strawberry Jam – Adds extra flavor and moisture, a nice touch for those who love strawberries.

How to Make Easy Strawberry Easter Cake

Making the Easy Strawberry Easter Cake is a delightful process that combines baking, creativity, and a bit of fun. I love the moments of anticipation as the cake layers bake and the sweet aroma fills the kitchen. The following steps will guide you through creating this beautiful cake from scratch.

Begin by laying out the cool whip and cream cheese on the counter a couple of hours before starting, allowing them to come to room temperature. This step ensures that they mix together smoothly.
Bake the white cake mix according to the package instructions, whether you choose to make two layers or a single sheet cake. Once baked, let it cool completely on a wire rack.
While the cake is cooling, rinse and dry all the strawberries. Lay a piece of parchment paper onto a baking sheet and set it aside for later use.
Melt the candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl. Do this in 30-second intervals, stirring well between each round. It may take up to a minute and a half to completely melt. Be careful not to overheat them; you want them warm and melted, not scalding hot.
Once melted, take 5-7 large, pretty strawberries and dip them one at a time into the melted candy. Use a spoon to help coat the strawberry evenly. Allow the excess candy to drip off, then place them on the parchment-lined baking sheet. Once all are coated, place the tray in the fridge to set.
Remove the green stems from the remaining strawberries and cut them into halves and quarters to create bite-sized pieces. Set these aside for later use in the cake.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cool whip, cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, almond extract, and ¼ cup of milk. Beat on low speed until creamy and thick. If the mixture is too lumpy or thick, carefully add more milk by the tablespoon until it reaches a thick but spreadable consistency.
In a medium-sized bowl, take the ends of the fresh strawberries and cut them into quarters. Add one cup of granulated sugar and mash the mixture until it resembles a thin strawberry jam. You should have a lovely mixture ready to soak between the layers of cake.
For assembly, start by using 2-3 tablespoons of icing to “glue” the bottom cake layer to the cake plate. Place the first layer of cake top side down onto the plate.
Spread a layer of the homemade strawberry mixture onto the top of the bottom cake layer, but be careful to leave about 2 inches from the edges to avoid overflow. Save any extra for serving.
Now, place the second cake layer on top, upside down. This smooth side will be the top of your cake.
Using a spatula, ice the surface of both cake layers with the remaining frosting. Don’t worry if some of the filling seeps out; just keep spreading the icing to cover it all.
Once the cake is beautifully iced, remove the candied strawberries from the fridge and artfully pile them onto the center of the cake. Use the cut pieces of strawberries to decorate the top and sides for an elegant finish.
If you’re not serving the cake right away, refrigerate it for up to two hours. It can keep for up to five days in the fridge when covered properly.
For an added touch, using the end of a wooden spoon, poke holes into the top of the cake every two inches. Gently pour the strawberry jam mixture into the holes and let it soak into the cake layers. You may have extra jam left over; feel free to save it for serving.
Lastly, drizzle any remaining jam over the top of the finished cake, or leave it on the side for guests to add as they please. Your Easy Strawberry Easter Cake is now ready to be enjoyed!

Things Worth Knowing

Ingredient Temperature Matters: Always use room temperature cream cheese and cool whip for a smoother frosting.
Quality of Strawberries: Fresh, ripe strawberries are essential for the best flavor. Choose berries that are bright and firm.
Layering Technique: Leave space when filling to avoid overflow. Too much filling can cause it to ooze out!
Chilling Time: Refrigerating the cake for a couple of hours helps solidify the frosting and flavors before serving.

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

There are many ways to put your personal spin on the Easy Strawberry Easter Cake. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to five days. Make sure to cover it well to prevent it from drying out.
Freezing: While not recommended for the whole cake, you can freeze individual slices for later enjoyment. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.
Flavor Variations: Experiment with different flavors of candy melts or jam for a unique twist!
Decoration: Use edible flowers or mint leaves alongside the strawberries for a more elegant presentation.
Serving Suggestions: Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.

Serving This Easy Strawberry Easter Cake

When it comes to serving the Easy Strawberry Easter Cake, there are endless possibilities to make it special:

Perfect for Spring Gatherings: This cake is an ideal centerpiece for Easter brunch or springtime potlucks.
Slice it Up: Cut the cake into generous slices and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
Pairing Suggestions: Serve alongside a light salad or fresh fruit to balance the sweetness of the cake.
Storage Tips: If there are leftovers, wrap them tightly and refrigerate to keep them fresh for up to five days.
Seasonal Occasions: While it’s great for Easter, this cake is also wonderful for birthdays, graduations, or even summer barbecues.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can prepare the cake layers in advance and store them wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. You can also make the frosting and the strawberry mixture ahead of time. Just keep everything in separate airtight containers until you’re ready to assemble the cake. This way, when you’re ready to serve, it’s just a matter of putting everything together, and you’ll impress your guests without the last-minute rush!

If you can’t find white cake mix, no worries! You can use a yellow cake mix instead. It will give the cake a slightly different flavor, but it will still be delicious! Alternatively, you can make a homemade vanilla cake from scratch if you’re feeling adventurous. The key is to have a soft and fluffy base for the strawberries and frosting to shine.

While fresh strawberries are highly recommended for the best flavor and presentation, you can use frozen strawberries if that’s what you have on hand. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before using, as excess moisture can affect the texture of the cake. Keep in mind that the flavor may not be as vibrant as fresh strawberries, but it will still work beautifully in the frosting and filling!

The Easy Strawberry Easter Cake can last in the refrigerator for up to 5 days when properly covered. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. If you have any concerns about it getting dry, you can always add a little extra strawberry jam on top before serving for added moisture and flavor!

Conclusion

The Easy Strawberry Easter Cake is a delightful dessert that embodies the flavors of spring. It’s not just about the cake; it’s about the memories made in the kitchen with loved ones and celebrating special occasions. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and share it with your family and friends. You’ll find that it’s a crowd-pleaser, perfect for any gathering. So roll up your sleeves and enjoy the process!