Strawberry Jello Cake Recipe

This Strawberry Jello Cake is a slice of pure summer heaven! The moist, strawberry-infused cake layered with fresh macerated berries and topped with a creamy strawberry buttercream frosting creates an irresistible dessert that looks impressive but comes together with minimal effort. Perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or anytime you need a reliable crowd-pleaser that tastes like it came from a fancy bakery!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• White Cake Mix: The perfect canvas that allows the strawberry flavor to shine while providing structure and keeping prep time minimal.
• Strawberry Gelatin: This is the secret weapon that infuses the cake with vibrant color and concentrated strawberry flavor—don’t substitute with sugar-free versions as they won’t provide the same texture or flavor.
• Fresh Strawberries: These bring real fruit flavor and moisture to both the cake and frosting. The natural acidity balances the sweetness perfectly.
• Buttermilk: Adds tanginess and creates an incredibly tender crumb. The acidity also helps activate the leavening agents in the cake mix.
• All-Purpose Flour: A small amount helps strengthen the cake’s structure without making it dense.
• Butter: Used in both cake and frosting, it provides richness and that unmistakable buttery flavor that elevates box mixes.
• Vegetable Oil: Keeps the cake moist for days—much longer than butter alone would.
• Eggs: Provide structure, richness, and help bind everything together.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the strawberry flavor with its complementary warmth.
• Powdered Sugar: Creates a smooth, sweet frosting that pipes beautifully if desired.

Variations

Seasonal Berry Swaps

When strawberries aren’t at their peak, try using frozen berries (thawed and drained) or swap in raspberries for an equally delicious twist.

Chocolate Lover’s Version

Add mini chocolate chips to the batter and drizzle the frosted cake with chocolate ganache for a chocolate-covered strawberry effect.

Triple Berry Explosion

Mix in blueberries and raspberries with the strawberries for a patriotic-looking cake perfect for summer gatherings.

Cream Cheese Frosting

Replace half the butter in the frosting with cream cheese for a tangier profile that complements the sweet berries beautifully.

How to Make Strawberry Jello Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries

Combine sliced strawberries with sugar in a bowl and let them sit for at least 30 minutes. This process, called maceration, draws out the juices and intensifies the strawberry flavor that will infuse your cake.

Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, strawberry gelatin, and flour until well integrated. Add the diced butter and mix until incorporated. Pour in the vegetable oil, followed by the buttermilk, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Add eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract, then gently fold in the macerated strawberries along with all their juicy goodness.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake at 350°F for approximately 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. The cake will have a beautiful pink hue and springy texture when done.

Step 4: Create the Strawberry Frosting

Beat the softened butter until light and fluffy—about 3-4 minutes. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well between additions. Add the milk to achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency. Gently fold in the drained strawberry slices until evenly distributed throughout the frosting.

Step 5: Frost and Serve

Allow the cake to cool completely before applying the frosting. Spread the strawberry buttercream in an even layer across the top of the cake. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh strawberry slices or sprinkles if desired.

How to Serve

Perfect Pairings

This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of fresh whipped cream, or even a small glass of champagne for adult gatherings.

Presentation Ideas

For a more elegant presentation, consider slicing the cake into squares and serving on individual plates with a mint leaf and additional fresh strawberry for garnish.

Temperature Matters

While delicious straight from the refrigerator, this cake really shines when served at room temperature, when the flavors and aromas are at their peak.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors actually continue to develop, making day 2 or 3 potentially even more delicious than day 1!

Freezing

The unfrosted cake freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. The frosting doesn’t freeze well with the strawberry pieces, so it’s best to make that fresh.

Reheating

For the best texture, allow frozen cake to thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bring to room temperature before serving. If desired, microwave individual slices for 10-15 seconds for that just-baked warmth.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Jello Cake brings together the nostalgic comfort of a cake mix with the irresistible flavor of fresh strawberries. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving something sweet and fruity, this recipe delivers exceptional results with minimal effort. The bright color and fresh flavor make every bite feel like a celebration. Give it a try—I promise it’ll become a regular in your dessert rotation!

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