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Best Paula Deen Strawberry Cake Recipe

Paula Deen Strawberry Cake Recipe

The Paula Deen Strawberry Cake Recipe is a moist, fluffy strawberry cake made with cake mix, strawberry gelatin, and real strawberries, topped with a rich cream cheese frosting. Simple to make and full of fresh flavor, it’s perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any sweet celebration.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 15
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • For the Cake
  • 1 18-ounce box white cake mix
  • 1 3-ounce box strawberry-flavoured instant gelatin
  • 15 ounces frozen strawberries thawed and pureed
  • 4 large eggs
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • ¼ cup water
  • For the Frosting
  • ¼ cup butter softened
  • 1 8-ounce package cream cheese, softened
  • ½ teaspoon strawberry extract optional, for stronger flavor
  • 7 cups powdered sugar
  • Fresh strawberries sliced (for garnish)

Equipment

  • 2 round cake pans (9-inch) or 9×13 baking dish
  • Mixing bowls
  • Hand or stand mixer
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Rubber spatula
  • Wire rack for cooling

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Pans
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or spray with nonstick baking spray.
Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter
  1. In a large bowl, combine the cake mix and strawberry gelatin. Stir in the pureed strawberries, eggs, oil, and water. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth, about 2 minutes. The batter will turn a lovely pink color.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
  1. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Make the Frosting
  1. In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until creamy. Add powdered sugar one cup at a time, mixing until smooth. Stir in strawberry extract if using. If frosting feels too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it.
Step 5: Assemble the Cake
  1. Spread frosting between the cake layers, then frost the top and sides. Garnish with sliced fresh strawberries for a beautiful finish.

Notes

  • Always let the cake cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
  • Use room temperature cream cheese and butter for a smooth frosting.
  • Garnish just before serving if using fresh strawberries so they stay bright and fresh.