Name: Strawberry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 bag Cup4Cup Yellow Cake Mix; 1½ cups whole milk (room temperature); ¾ cup melted butter (avocado oil or a neutral oil can be substituted); 4 large eggs (room temperature); 16.5 ounces (1 jar) strawberry jam; 8 ounces cream cheese (softened); 8 ounces butter (softened); 16.5 ounces (1 jar) strawberry jam; 4 cups powdered sugar; Freeze dried strawberries, crushed

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 50 reviews

There is nothing quite like the joy of biting into a moist, flavorful strawberry cake topped with luscious, tangy frosting. This Strawberry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is an absolute crowd-pleaser that effortlessly brings together the bright sweetness of strawberry jam and the creamy richness of classic cream cheese frosting. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or simply treating yourself to a slice of happiness, this cake delivers on every level with its tender crumb and irresistible strawberry flavor that shines through every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass mixing bowl sits on a white marbled surface, filled with a thick, creamy light beige batter with smooth, ridged texture from mixing. On top of the batter, there is a dollop of bright red jam, slightly chunky and glossy, ready to be mixed in. Two metal beaters from an electric mixer rest partially in the batter, coated with the creamy mixture. A woman's hand holds the edge of the bowl, steadying it for mixing. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

To create this delightful strawberry cake, you’ll need just a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients that work perfectly together. Each one plays a crucial role in creating the texture, taste, and vibrant color that make this recipe so special.

Cup4Cup Yellow Cake Mix: The perfect base for a fluffy, moist cake with great structure.
Whole milk (room temperature): Adds moisture and richness to keep the cake tender.
Melted butter (or neutral oil like avocado oil): Brings buttery flavor and tenderness.
Large eggs (room temperature): Helps bind everything together and adds lift.
Strawberry jam: Infuses natural strawberry sweetness and moisture throughout the cake and frosting.
Freeze dried strawberries (optional): Adds a beautiful, crunchy garnish with intense strawberry flavor.
Cream cheese (softened): Essential to creating that classic tangy, creamy frosting.
Butter (softened): Works with cream cheese to produce a smooth, rich frosting texture.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to the perfect consistency.

How to Make Strawberry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F and generously grease a 13×18 inch half sheet pan, or line it with parchment paper. This ensures the cake will come out cleanly without sticking, making slicing and serving a breeze.

Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, melted butter, and strawberry jam until fully combined. This mixture sets the flavor tone with juicy, sweet strawberry notes. Next, add the Cup4Cup cake mix and whisk until smooth. The batter should be uniform and pourable, ready to bake into a perfectly moist cake.

Step 3: Bake Until Golden and Set

Pour your batter into the prepared sheet pan and place it in the oven. Bake for 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden on top, springy to the touch, and filled with lovely strawberry aroma.

Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the cake is baking, prepare the frosting by placing softened cream cheese, softened butter, and strawberry jam into a large bowl. Using an electric hand mixer, beat on high until creamy and combined. Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition until you reach a smooth, spreadable consistency.

Step 5: Cool and Frost Your Cake

Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the luscious cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. For a finishing touch, sprinkle crushed freeze-dried strawberries across the frosting to add a burst of color and concentrated strawberry flavor that’s both beautiful and delicious.

How to Serve Strawberry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

A rectangular black-edged tray filled with a thick, creamy mixture spread evenly across the surface. The mixture is light beige with small darker specks spread throughout, creating a slightly textured look. The top is smooth with soft swirls and gentle peaks, giving it a rich and fluffy appearance. The tray sits on a white marbled textured surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your Strawberry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe, consider topping it with fresh strawberry slices or edible flowers for an elegant presentation. The freeze-dried strawberries add a wonderful crunch and intensified flavor, making the cake look as delightful as it tastes.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a chilled glass of sparkling rosé to complement its sweetness. A dollop of lightly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can also make the serving experience even more decadent.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting the cake into fun shapes using cookie cutters for parties or layering the cake squares with extra strawberry jam between each piece to turn it into a layered strawberry dessert. You can also serve it as an elegant trifle by alternating cake cubes, frosting, and fresh strawberries in clear glasses.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover cake covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The frosting benefits from refrigeration and will keep the cake fresh and flavorful for up to 4 days.

Freezing

If you want to save the cake for longer, wrap it well in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving, and if desired, add a fresh layer of frosting to refresh the top.

Reheating

This strawberry cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, so reheating is not necessary. However, if you prefer warmth, heat individual slices gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, being careful not to melt the frosting.

FAQs

Can I use a different cake mix for this Strawberry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe?

Absolutely! While Cup4Cup Yellow Cake Mix works beautifully for this recipe, you can substitute with your favorite yellow or white cake mix. Just keep in mind that texture and moisture might vary slightly.

Is it necessary to use room temperature ingredients?

Yes, using room temperature eggs, milk, and butter helps the ingredients blend smoothly and ensures a better rise and texture in the cake.

Can I make this cake dairy-free?

For a dairy-free version, substitute plant-based milk, vegan butter, and dairy-free cream cheese alternatives. The flavor will be delicious, though the texture may differ slightly.

How do I prevent the frosting from being too runny?

If your cream cheese frosting feels too soft, add a bit more powdered sugar to thicken it up. Make sure your cream cheese and butter are softened but not melted before mixing.

Can I double the recipe for a larger cake?

Yes, just double all the ingredients and bake in a larger pan or multiple pans. Baking time may vary, so check with a toothpick for doneness.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about this Strawberry Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe that makes celebrating any occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat feel exceptional. The balance of moist cake, vibrant strawberry flavor, and creamy frosting is a guaranteed winner, and I can’t wait for you to experience its charm in your own kitchen. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a beloved favorite to share with friends and family!