Strawberry Sheet Cake Recipe
This Strawberry Sheet Cake recipe features a moist, fluffy cake made with fresh strawberries for a burst of fruity flavor. It's topped with a creamy strawberry frosting, making it perfect for summer gatherings. Easy to prepare, it's a delightful dessert that’s sure to impress any crowd!
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Electric mixer or hand whisk
- Rubber spatula
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Cooling rack
- Blender or food processor (for strawberry puree)
Ingredients
For the Strawberry Cake:
- ¾ cup cake flour
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1¾ cups granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ¾ cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 1½ cups fresh strawberries lightly pureed (reserve 2 tablespoons for icing)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 ounces cream cheese softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons strawberry puree from the reserved amount
- 1 teaspoon strawberry-flavored instant gelatin if using from above
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Prepare the Strawberry Puree
- Blend fresh strawberries in a food processor or blender until smooth. Measure 1½ cups for the cake batter and 2 tablespoons for the frosting. Set aside.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, sift together the cake flour, all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Step 4: Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In another bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and 1½ cups strawberry puree until smooth.
Step 5: Make the Cake Batter
- Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid over mixing. If using strawberry gelatin, add it here for a deeper pink color.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely on a wire rack.
Step 7: Prepare the Frosting
- Using an electric mixer, beat the cream cheese and butter until light and creamy. Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, reserved strawberry puree, and strawberry gelatin. Beat until smooth and spreadable.
Step 8: Frost and Serve
- Once the cake is completely cool, spread the strawberry frosting evenly over the top. Slice into squares and serve. Garnish with fresh strawberries if desired.
Notes
When making this strawberry sheet cake, I always recommend using the freshest strawberries possible for the best flavor.
The sweetness and natural fragrance of fresh strawberries really elevate the cake and make every bite a joy.
If strawberries are out of season, you can use frozen berries, but remember to thaw them properly and drain the liquid to prevent a soggy cake.