Name: Mamaw Emily’s Strawberry Cake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 package white cake mix (regular size); 1 package (3 ounces) strawberry gelatin; 3 tablespoons sugar; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 cup water; 1/2 cup canola oil; 2 large eggs, room temperature; 1 cup finely chopped strawberries; 1/2 cup butter, softened; 1/2 cup crushed strawberries; 4-1/2 to 5 cups confectioners’ sugar

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 9 reviews

If you’re craving a dessert that feels like a warm hug from the inside out, then you absolutely have to try Mamaw Emily’s Strawberry Cake Recipe. This delightful cake combines the lightness of a classic white cake with the bursting freshness of real strawberries and a luscious strawberry-infused frosting that will make your taste buds dance. It’s a beloved family favorite that brings sunshine and sweetness to every occasion, and once you make it, I promise it will quickly become your go-to for celebrations or cozy afternoons alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A round pink cake on a white plate with one slice taken out and placed next to it, showing two layers of moist pink cake separated by a thin layer of light pink frosting. The cake is covered in smooth light pink frosting with some swirling texture on top. The setting is on a white marbled surface, and in the background, there are small white bowls with fresh strawberries and small pink treats. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

What I love most about Mamaw Emily’s Strawberry Cake Recipe is how simple yet impactful each ingredient is. Every component plays a special role in crafting a cake with perfect texture, vibrant color, and unforgettable flavor.

White cake mix (1 package): The foundation for a light and fluffy crumb that elevates the strawberry flavors beautifully.
Strawberry gelatin (3 ounces): Adds just the right punch of strawberry essence and gives the cake a lovely pink tint.
Sugar (3 tablespoons): Enhances sweetness without overpowering, balancing all the flavors.
All-purpose flour (3 tablespoons): Helps stabilize the cake batter for consistent texture every time.
Water (1 cup): Keeps the batter moist, essential for that melt-in-your-mouth effect.
Canola oil (1/2 cup): Adds moistness and tenderness while keeping the cake light.
Large eggs, room temperature (2): Bind everything together and provide structure.
Finely chopped strawberries (1 cup): The fresh burst of fruitiness that sets this cake apart, bringing vibrant flavor and texture.
Butter, softened (1/2 cup): The creamy base of the frosting, giving it richness and smoothness.
Crushed strawberries (1/2 cup): Infuse the frosting with authentic strawberry goodness and a sweet tang.
Confectioners’ sugar (4 1/2 to 5 cups): Thickens the frosting to the perfect consistency with sweetness and a silky finish.

How to Make Mamaw Emily’s Strawberry Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preparing the Cake Pans

First things first, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to set the perfect baking environment. Then, grease two 8-inch round baking pans and line their bottoms with parchment paper, which you’ll also grease lightly. This step ensures your cake layers release cleanly and maintain their beautiful shape.

Step 2: Mixing the Batter

In a large bowl, combine the white cake mix, strawberry gelatin, sugar, and flour. These dry ingredients are essential for building the cake’s structure and flavor. Next, add the water, canola oil, and eggs, and beat on low speed for 30 seconds to start bringing everything together. Then, crank it up to medium speed and continue beating for 2 minutes until the batter is smooth and velvety. Finally, gently fold in the finely chopped strawberries. This step is crucial; those tender strawberry pieces add pockets of delight in every bite.

Step 3: Baking the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula. Slide them into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. After baking, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before removing them to wire racks and peeling off the parchment paper. Cooling the layers completely is key to achieving the perfect crumb before frosting.

Step 4: Making the Frosting

While the cakes cool, whip up the luscious frosting that makes Mamaw Emily’s Strawberry Cake Recipe truly unforgettable. In a small bowl, beat the softened butter until it’s creamy and smooth. Add in the crushed strawberries and continue beating until well combined, infusing the frosting with fresh fruity flavor. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar, beating continuously until you’ve reached your desired frosting consistency—smooth, spreadable, and oh so delightful.

Step 5: Assembling the Cake

Place one cake layer on your serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting over the top. Add the second cake layer, then frost the top and sides with the remaining frosting. Take a moment here to smooth the frosting and even out the edges for that picture-perfect look. And voila, your Mamaw Emily’s Strawberry Cake Recipe is ready to wow everyone!

How to Serve Mamaw Emily’s Strawberry Cake Recipe

A round, pink frosted cake sits on a white plate with one slice missing and placed next to the cake. The cake has two visible layers of bright pink sponge, separated and covered by a smooth, pale pink frosting that swirls lightly on the top and around the sides. The background is a white marbled surface with small bowls of strawberries and cake crumbs nearby, creating a fresh and inviting look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate the look and flavor, try garnishing your cake with whole fresh strawberries or delicate mint sprigs. A light dusting of powdered sugar over the top adds a charming touch of sweetness and a hint of elegance that never fails to impress your guests.

Side Dishes

This strawberry cake pairs beautifully with fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. The creamy sides complement the fruity softness of the cake perfectly, making every forkful feel indulgent and refreshing all at once.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, serve slices on pretty dessert plates with a drizzle of strawberry sauce or a few edible flowers. You could also assemble mini strawberry cakes in individual ramekins for a fun twist that’s perfect for parties or intimate gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the cake fresh and the frosting firm. It stays delicious for up to 3 days, giving you plenty of time to enjoy every last bite.

Freezing

You can freeze the unfrosted cake layers by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in freezer bags. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and then apply frosting. This way, you can have Mamaw Emily’s Strawberry Cake Recipe ready whenever the craving strikes!

Reheating

If you prefer your cake at room temperature, simply let refrigerated slices sit out for about 30 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving as it can alter the texture of the cake and frosting.

FAQs

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of gelatin?

The strawberry gelatin gives the cake its distinct flavor and color that fresh strawberries alone can’t fully replicate, but you can certainly experiment by adding extra finely chopped fresh strawberries to the batter for more fruitiness.

What is the best way to chop strawberries for the cake?

Finely chopping strawberries ensures they distribute evenly throughout the cake, preventing soggy spots and giving consistent bursts of flavor in every bite.

Can I substitute butter with margarine in the frosting?

While butter provides the best richness and flavor, margarine can be used in a pinch. Just keep in mind that the taste and texture might be slightly different.

How thick should I make the frosting?

The frosting should be thick enough to spread easily without running, roughly the consistency of creamy peanut butter. Adjust powder sugar in small amounts to achieve this.

Is this recipe allergy-friendly?

This recipe contains eggs and dairy, so it’s not suitable for those with those allergies. However, with some substitutions like egg replacers and dairy-free butter, you could adapt it to your needs.

Final Thoughts

Honestly, Mamaw Emily’s Strawberry Cake Recipe is one of those rare desserts that feels like coming home, wrapped in a swirl of sweetness and fruit-filled goodness. Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or simply to brighten your day, it promises to bring joy and smiles. Dive in, bake up a batch, and let this charming strawberry cake become a treasured staple in your baking repertoire!