Simple Strawberry Cake

Strawberry Cake

I feel I need to begin this post with a disclaimer, so I will. This cake is made with a boxed mix AND a boxed gelatin mix. So, there. If you have any arguments, feel free to dial up Tyler Florence who shared a recipe using a boxed mix in his book, Family Meal. Not only was that cake fabulous, but easy to make, and thus, more likely to be made.

This was made by request as a birthday cake, and perfect for this time of year. Because it's so easy to make but so pretty in presentation it's good for every day or to serve to company. This would also be a beautiful addition to any Mother's Day table.

Any boxed yellow cake will do and any brand of gelatin, as well. Just use the sizes recommended for best results.

Strawberry Cake
Printable Recipe
Hands-On Time: 15 minutes
Ready In: 1 hour 45 minutes (includes cooling time)
Serves: 8-10

Ingredients:

1 quart ripe strawberries, washed and hulled - leaving one with the stem and leaves
One yellow cake mix (18.25 ounces)
One strawberry gelatin mix (3 ounces)
2 cups heavy cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar

Directions:

1. Slice all but one strawberry thinly and set aside. Slice one strawberry from end to stem being careful not to cut all the way through. Leaving stem attached, fan out berry and set aside.
2. Blend cake mix as directed on box and place half of batter in another bowl. Mix gelatin into one half of batter.
3. Pour plain batter evenly into two 9-inch round cake pans. Add strawberry batter to top and swirl with a spoon or fork. Bake as directed on box.
4. Cool cakes completely once baked and remove from pans.
5. Add powdered sugar to heavy cream and beat until fluffy.
6. Set one cake on a plate and top with half the whipped cream and half the strawberries.
7. Add second cake layer and whipped cream. Arrange strawberries in concentric circles from center out. Add berry with leaves to the center.