Strawberry Sheet Cake
Ingredients
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup butter, softened, and unsalted
2 eggs
2 tsp lemon juice
½ tsp vanilla
½ tsp baking soda
¼ tsp salt
1 cup buttermilk
3 tbsp strawberry gelatin mix
2 ½ cups flour
2 ½ cups diced strawberries
Frosting:
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
⅔ cup confectioner’s sugar
1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
¾ cup diced strawberries
Instructions
Step 1:
Preheat the oven to 350*
Spray a 9×13 baking pan and line with a sheet of parchment paper
Using an electric mixer, cream the butter and the sugar until it is light and fluffy
Step 2:
Add the eggs one at a time beating between each
Beat in the vanilla and the lemon juice
In a small bowl, combine the gelatin mix, baking soda, salt and flour
Step 3:
Add the flour mix to the first bowl a little at a time, alternate with adding the buttermilk
Mix until well incorporated
Fold in the diced strawberries
Step 4:
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth it out
Bake for 35 minutes and test with a toothpick to check for doneness
Step 5:
Cool in the pan on a wire rack for 30 minutes
Remove cake from pan using the parchment paper, turn cake over on the wire rack to finish cooling
In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and half of the confectioner’s sugar
Step 6:
Add strawberries and beat until just mixed
Beat the cream and lemon juice until light and foamy
Step 7:
Add in the remaining sugar and beat until stiff peaks form
Cover the sides and the top of the cake with the frosting.
Enjoy!
Nutrition Information:
SERVING SIZE: 1
Amount Per Serving: CALORIES: 153 | TOTAL FAT: 7g | CHOLESTEROL: 33mg | SUGAR: 15g | PROTEIN: 1g
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones.
However, keep in mind that frozen strawberries may release more liquid when thawed, which could affect the texture of the cake slightly.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the cake ahead of time.
Bake and cool the cake as instructed, but wait to frost it until just before serving to prevent the frosting from becoming too soft.
Can I use a different type of gelatin mix for the cake?
While the recipe calls for strawberry gelatin mix, you can experiment with other flavors of gelatin mix if desired.
Just keep in mind that it will alter the flavor of the cake accordingly.
How should I store leftovers of this cake?
Leftover cake should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Due to the cream cheese frosting, it’s best to refrigerate any remaining cake to prevent spoilage.
Can I use a different type of frosting for this cake?
Yes, you can use a different type of frosting if you prefer.
However, the cream cheese frosting complements the flavors of the strawberry cake quite well.
If you choose a different frosting, consider how its flavor will pair with the strawberry and lemon flavors of the cake.
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
While you can use salted butter, it may affect the overall saltiness of the cake.
If you do use salted butter, consider reducing the additional salt in the recipe to balance the flavor.
What can I use as a substitute for buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of milk.
Let it sit for a few minutes to curdle before using it in the recipe.
Can I omit the gelatin mix from the recipe?
The gelatin mix adds both flavor and color to the cake.
If you prefer to omit it, you may need to adjust the flavorings and increase the amount of diced strawberries to maintain the desired flavor and texture.
How should I store leftovers of this cake?
Leftover cake should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator due to the cream cheese frosting.
It will stay fresh for several days when refrigerated.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, you can freeze this cake.
Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container before freezing.
Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones in the cake batter.
However, be sure to thaw and drain them well before adding them to the batter to prevent excess moisture.
How can I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?
Using parchment paper to line the baking pan and spraying it with non-stick cooking spray will help prevent the cake from sticking.
Can I use a different type of frosting for this cake?
Yes, you can use a different type of frosting if you prefer.
However, the cream cheese frosting complements the flavors of the strawberry cake quite well.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
You can test the cake for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center.
If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, the cake is done.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the cake ahead of time. Bake and cool the cake as instructed, but wait to frost it until just before serving to prevent the frosting from becoming too soft.