Name: Strawberry Box Cake Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box strawberry cake mix (approximately 15.25 oz); 3 large eggs; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 1 cup water (or milk for extra richness); 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional); Fresh strawberries (for garnish); Whipped cream or frosting (for topping)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe· 4.3 from 39 reviews

If you’re craving a dessert that’s both effortlessly simple and irresistibly delightful, this Strawberry Box Cake Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. Using just a handful of common ingredients, this cake bursts with vibrant strawberry flavor and a moist, tender crumb that feels homemade even though it starts with a box mix. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just want to brighten up an ordinary day with something sweet, this recipe brings that perfect balance of convenience and charm straight to your table.

Strawberry Box Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these few but essential ingredients is all you need to whip up a strawberry cake that’s as tasty as it is easy. Each component plays a key role in creating a moist texture, a natural sweetness, and that signature pink hue that makes this cake so inviting.

Strawberry cake mix: The star of the show, providing strong strawberry flavor and a reliable base for the cake’s structure.
Large eggs: These add moisture and help bind the ingredients together for a soft crumb.
Vegetable oil: Keeps the cake tender and moist without overpowering the flavor.
Water (or milk): Hydrates the dry mix; using milk gives a richer, creamier finish.
Vanilla extract (optional): Enhances the natural sweetness and adds depth to the flavor profile.
Fresh strawberries (optional): Perfect for garnish and adding fresh bursts of flavor.
Whipped cream or frosting (optional): Adds a luscious topping that complements the fruity cake beautifully.

How to Make Strawberry Box Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Your Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, grease and flour your cake pan or line it with parchment paper to ensure your cake comes out clean and ready to impress. This prep step may seem small, but it sets the stage for your perfect Strawberry Box Cake Recipe experience.

Step 2: Combine the Cake Mix with Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, pour in the strawberry cake mix followed by the large eggs, vegetable oil, and water or milk. Add the vanilla extract if you’re using it. Whisk everything together until the batter is smooth and uniform in color, with no lumps. This simple mixing step is where your cake really begins to come to life.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and place it in the oven. Bake for about 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will start to fill with that wonderful aroma of strawberry sweetness, making the wait absolutely worth it.

Step 4: Cool and Prepare for Topping

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling properly ensures your frosting won’t melt and your cake slices stay neat and fluffy—important steps to perfect your Strawberry Box Cake Recipe.

How to Serve Strawberry Box Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh strawberries make the ideal garnish, adding vibrant color and a juicy contrast to each bite. You can also add a generous dollop of whipped cream or smooth frosting to amp up the indulgence, making this simple cake feel extra special.

Side Dishes

Serve your cake alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for a dessert spread that dazzles. A cup of lightly brewed tea or sparkling lemonade also pairs wonderfully with the sweet, fruity flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, make the cake into cupcakes or layer it with fresh strawberries and whipped cream for a gorgeous strawberry trifle. Adding edible flowers or a dusting of powdered sugar can also elevate the presentation, making your Strawberry Box Cake Recipe shine at any gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you need it to last longer, refrigeration is a good option and will keep it fresh for about a week, though make sure it’s covered well to prevent drying out.

Freezing

You can freeze the baked cake by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, keeping it in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture and flavor.

Reheating

To refresh the cake after storage, warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10 seconds or until just heated through. This subtle warming brings back the softness and highlights the strawberry essence, enhancing your enjoyment.

FAQs

Can I use milk instead of water in the Strawberry Box Cake Recipe?

Absolutely! Using milk instead of water adds extra richness and a creamier texture to the cake, making it taste even more indulgent.

Is it necessary to add vanilla extract?

Vanilla extract is optional but highly recommended as it deepens the flavor and compliments the strawberry perfectly without overpowering it.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

The recipe uses a boxed cake mix, so to make it gluten-free, look for a strawberry cake mix labeled gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

What frosting works best with this cake?

Whipped cream or cream cheese frosting pairs beautifully with the strawberry flavor, adding a tangy creaminess that balances the sweetness.

Can I add fresh strawberries inside the cake?

You can fold chopped fresh strawberries into the batter for an extra burst of fruitiness, but be gentle to avoid altering the cake’s texture too much.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Box Cake Recipe proves that you don’t have to be a baker extraordinaire to create something truly special and delicious. It’s simple, quick, and easily customizable, all while delivering that fresh, fruity charm we all love. So why wait? Grab your ingredients and start baking—your next favorite treat is just minutes away!