Easy Strawberry Pound Cake

A Delightful Dessert for Every Occasion

Strawberry lovers rejoice! This Easy Strawberry Pound Cake recipe combines the light, fluffy texture of a classic pound cake with the sweet, fruity flavor of strawberries. Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply indulging in a sweet treat for yourself, this cake is guaranteed to impress. It’s quick to prepare, requires simple ingredients, and offers endless customization options. Let’s dive into how you can create this delightful dessert in your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for:

  • Busy bakers: The boxed cake mix speeds up preparation without compromising flavor.
  • Strawberry enthusiasts: Fresh strawberries add bursts of natural sweetness in every bite.
  • Beginner bakers: Straightforward steps and readily available ingredients make it accessible to all skill levels.

The strawberry gelatin adds a vibrant hue and flavor to the cake, while the glaze provides the perfect finishing touch. Serve it at brunch, as a dessert for family dinners, or bring it to a potluck—it’s always a hit!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cake

  • 16 oz. boxed white cake mix
  • 3 tbsp. flour
  • 3 large eggs
  • 3/4 cup water
  • 1/2 cup vegetable or canola oil
  • 1 – 3 oz. pkg. strawberry-flavored gelatin (sugar-free optional)
  • 1 cup chopped fresh strawberries (frozen can be used as well)
  • 2-3 tbsp. finely chopped strawberries for garnish (optional)

For the Glaze (Optional but Recommended)

  • 3 tbsp. butter, melted
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 3 tbsp. milk
  • 1 tsp. vanilla extract
  • Tiny pinch of kosher salt

Kitchen Equipment

To make this recipe, you’ll need:

  • 10-inch angel food cake pan or Bundt pan
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Electric mixer
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cooling rack
  • Whisk
  • Knife (with a rounded tip for loosening the cake)
  • Cake platter

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare and Bake the Cake

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 10-inch angel food cake pan or Bundt pan with nonstick cooking spray and set aside. Pro tip: Use a Bundt pan for a prettier presentation.
  2. Mix the batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, flour, eggs, water, oil, strawberry gelatin, and chopped strawberries. Using an electric mixer, beat on low speed until just combined, then increase to high speed and mix for 2 minutes.
  3. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake on the center rack for 35-40 minutes. Check doneness with a toothpick—it should come out clean.
  4. Cool the cake: Remove the cake from the oven and cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil. Allow it to cool completely in the pan on a cooling rack.
  5. Release the cake: Once cooled, use a butter knife to loosen the edges and center of the cake. Place a platter over the pan and invert the cake. It should slide out easily.

Prepare the Glaze

  1. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
  2. Gradually add milk until the glaze reaches your desired consistency.

Glaze and Garnish

Drizzle the glaze over the cake, allowing it to cascade down the sides. Garnish with finely chopped strawberries for a touch of elegance, if desired. Let the glaze set before serving or dive right in!

Tips and Tricks

  • Frozen strawberries: If using frozen strawberries, thaw them completely and pat them dry to prevent excess moisture in the batter.
  • Substitute flavors: Swap strawberry gelatin for another flavor to create variations like lemon or raspberry pound cake.
  • Make it lighter: Use sugar-free gelatin and opt for light glaze ingredients to reduce sugar content.
  • Elevate the garnish: Top with whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar for a sophisticated finish.

Storage Instructions

  • Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
  • Refrigerator: Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
  • Freezer: Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cake mix?

Yes! While white cake mix is ideal, yellow or vanilla cake mix can also work. Adjust flavors as needed.

What if I don’t have a Bundt pan?

You can use a standard cake pan, but adjust the baking time and check for doneness earlier.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a gluten-free boxed cake mix and ensure your other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

How do I prevent my cake from sticking to the pan?

Use a generous amount of nonstick cooking spray and ensure you thoroughly loosen the edges before inverting.

Food and Drink Pairings

  • Pair with beverages: Serve with a cup of coffee, iced tea, or a glass of rosé.
  • Complement with sides: Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Try It Out Today!

This Easy Strawberry Pound Cake is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves a sweet, fruity dessert that’s as stunning as it is delicious. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this cake is sure to become a favorite. Share it with friends and family, and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes and tips. Happy baking!