BEST EVER STRAWBERRY CAKE

The Ultimate Strawberry Symphony: A Cake Infused with Freshness

This isn't just any strawberry cake; it's a symphony of fresh strawberry flavor that explodes with every bite! This recipe takes strawberry cake to a whole new level by incorporating a homemade concentrated strawberry puree into both the cake batter and the cream cheese icing. This double dose of strawberries guarantees a vibrant taste sensation and a stunning pink hue throughout the cake, making it the perfect dessert for spring and summer celebrations.

Why The Ultimate Strawberry Symphony Deserves a Spot on Your Dessert Table:

• Intensified Strawberry Flavor: Forget cakes with subtle hints of strawberry. This recipe boasts a powerful strawberry punch thanks to the homemade puree. By reducing the puree, we intensify its essence, ensuring every mouthful is a burst of fresh strawberry delight.
• Moist and Dreamy Cake: The base of this cake is a classic white cake known for its moist and fluffy texture. The addition of fresh strawberries not only adds vibrant flavor but also contributes to the cake's delightful moistness.
• Creamy Dream Frosting: A luscious cream cheese frosting complements the cake perfectly. The frosting is creamy and slightly tangy, providing a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the strawberries and adding a touch of richness to the overall flavor profile.

Ingredients for Your Ultimate Strawberry Symphony Adventure:

For the Insanely Strawberry Cake:

• 1 box white cake mix (high-quality cake mix recommended for best results)
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 (3 oz) box strawberry Jello (or another brand of strawberry-flavored gelatin)
• ½ cup water
• ¾ cup canola oil
• 2 cups fresh or frozen strawberries, pureed (divided into 1 cup for cake and 1 cup for icing)
• 4 large eggs

For the Dreamy Cream Cheese Icing (inspired by Paula Deen):

• 1 stick unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 1 cup fresh or frozen strawberries, pureed
• 3 cups powdered sugar

Step-by-Step Guide to Strawberry Cake Bliss:

1. Unleashing the Strawberry Power: Begin by pureeing half of your fresh or frozen strawberries. Using a saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, reduce this puree over medium heat until it thickens slightly. This concentrated strawberry magic is the key to infusing the cake with intense flavor.
2. Batter Basics: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cake mix, flour, strawberry Jello, and water. This dry mixture forms the base for your symphony of strawberry flavors.
3. Wet Ingredients Join the Party: Add the canola oil and eggs to the dry mix one at a time, beating well after each addition. This ensures the batter is well-creamed and aerated, resulting in a light and fluffy cake that will melt in your mouth.
4. Strawberry Magic in Action: Once the wet and dry ingredients are well combined, gently fold in the reduced strawberry puree and the remaining fresh strawberry puree (not reduced). Use a rubber spatula and be mindful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tough cake.
5. Baking to Perfection: Pour the batter into a well-greased and floured 9x13 inch baking pan. Bake the cake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Creamy Icing Delight: While the cake cools, prepare the cream cheese icing. Using an electric mixer, cream together the softened butter and cream cheese until light and fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and the remaining cup of strawberry puree, beating until the icing is smooth, creamy, and spreadable.
7. The Grand Finale: Once the cake is completely cool, spread the decadent strawberry cream cheese icing evenly over the top. For an extra touch of elegance and a pop of color, garnish the cake with a few fresh strawberries.

Now you can slice and savor this Ultimate Strawberry Symphony! Bursting with fresh flavor and frosted with a delightful cream cheese icing, it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will be the star of any spring or summer gathering.

Tips for Creating the Ultimate Strawberry Symphony:

• Strawberry Selection: For the freshest flavor, use ripe strawberries. If using frozen strawberries, thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before pureeing.
• Customizing the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet cake, reduce the amount of powdered sugar in the frosting by ¼ cup. You can taste the frosting as you go and adjust accordingly.
• Vanilla Essence: For an extra layer of complexity, add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the cake batter along with the wet ingredients.
• Double the Strawberries (Optional): If you're a true strawberry fanatic, you can also add chopped fresh strawberries to the cake batter after folding in the purees. This will add even more strawberry texture throughout the cake.
• Freezing Leftovers: The frosted cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then again in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free cake, use a gluten-free cake mix and certified gluten-free flour. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
• Pretty in Pink: If you don't have strawberry Jello, you can use another flavor of gelatin, but the cake won't have the same vibrant pink color. You can add a few drops of red food coloring to the batter to achieve a similar hue.
• Adding a Special Touch: For an elegant presentation, pipe the frosting onto the cooled cake using a decorating tip and piping bag.
• Fruity Fun: Consider adding a layer of fresh strawberry slices or another fruit compote between the cake layers for an extra burst of flavor and moisture.

By following these tips, you can customize your Ultimate Strawberry Symphony to your liking and create a dessert that is not only delicious but also visually stunning!