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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Servings: 15
Calories: 420kcal
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
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)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pans
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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.
Nutrition
Calories: 420kcal | Carbohydrates: 68g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 15g | Sugar: 56g