Strawberry Glaze Cake πΈπ β Moist, Sweet & Perfectly Fruity
Looking for a light and flavorful cake that brings the bright taste of strawberries to your table? Try this Strawberry Glaze Cake β a soft, moist layer made from a classic cake mix, enriched with real mashed strawberries and topped with a glossy, homemade strawberry glaze.
Itβs easy enough for beginner bakers yet elegant enough for special occasions. With just a few simple additions to a boxed cake mix, youβll create something that tastes completely homemade β no fancy tools or baking skills required!
Letβs get started!
π Why Youβll Love This Cake
- Fast & Easy : Starts with a boxed cake mix for convenience.
- Fresh Strawberry Flavor : Made with real mashed strawberries in both the batter and glaze.
- Perfect Texture : Light, moist, and slightly tender with a sweet fruity note.
- Gorgeous Presentation : The pink strawberry glaze makes it look bakery-fresh.
- Great for Sharing : Ideal for birthdays, baby showers, brunches, or afternoon tea.
π§Ύ Ingredients (Makes 1 9Γ13-inch Sheet Cake or 2 Round Layers)
For the Cake:
- 1 box (15β18 oz) strawberry cake mix
- 1 cup milk
- Β½ cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- Β½ cup mashed strawberries (about 6β8 medium strawberries)
For the Strawberry Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ΒΌ cup mashed strawberries (fresh or thawed frozen)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1β2 Tbsp milk or heavy cream (adjust for consistency)
Optional: Fresh strawberry slices for garnish
πͺ Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 9Γ13-inch baking pan or two 8-inch round pans
- Spatula
- Parchment paper or non-stick spray
- Fine mesh strainer (for glaze, optional)
π©βπ³ Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C) . Grease your baking pan(s) well with non-stick spray or butter and flour if needed.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
In a large mixing bowl:
- Add the strawberry cake mix .
- Pour in 1 cup milk , Β½ cup vegetable oil , and 3 large eggs .
- Mix on medium speed (or by hand) until combined and smooth β about 2β3 minutes.
- Gently fold in the Β½ cup mashed strawberries using a spatula.
Tip: Donβt overmix after adding strawberries to keep them from turning into juice and staining the batter too much.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into your prepared pan(s) and spread evenly.
- Bake for 28β32 minutes for a 9Γ13-inch pan, or 22β26 minutes for round layers. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with a few crumbs.
- Let the cake cool completely on a wire rack before glazing.
Step 4: Make the Strawberry Glaze
- In a small bowl, mash ΒΌ cup strawberries with a fork or blender.
- Strain through a fine mesh sieve if you prefer a smoother glaze.
- Add 1 cup powdered sugar , 1 tsp vanilla extract , and 1β2 Tbsp milk or cream , stirring until smooth and pourable.
Adjust the liquid as needed to reach your desired glaze thickness.
Step 5: Glaze and Decorate
- Once the cake is completely cool, drizzle or spread the strawberry glaze evenly over the top.
- Garnish with fresh strawberry slices or a sprinkle of edible flowers for a beautiful finish.
π° Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
- Pair with a cup of chamomile or rose tea for a delicate flavor combo.
- Layer between rounds with a touch of glaze and fresh berries for a taller presentation.
π₯‘ Storage & Reheating Tips
- Refrigerator: Store covered in the fridge for up to 3 days (the glaze may soften the cake slightly).
- Freezer: Freeze unfrosted layers for up to 2 months . Thaw and glaze before serving.
- Make Ahead: The cake can be baked and cooled a day ahead. Glaze just before serving for best texture.
β Pro Tips for Success
- Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor β but frozen works in a pinch (thaw and drain well).
- For a deeper strawberry taste, add a ΒΌ tsp of almond extract along with the vanilla.
- If the glaze becomes too runny, refrigerate it briefly to thicken.
- Want extra moisture? Brush the cooled cake layers with a simple strawberry syrup (simmer 2 Tbsp strawberry puree + 2 Tbsp sugar + 1 Tbsp water until thickened).
π§ Nutritional Highlights
While this is definitely a dessert, it does offer some nutritional perks:
- Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber.
- Milk and eggs provide calcium and protein.
- When enjoyed in moderation, this cake can be a delightful addition to a balanced lifestyle.
π Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Glaze Cake proves that boxed cake mixes can be transformed into something truly special with just a few thoughtful touches. Itβs a celebration of springtime flavors β light, fruity, and utterly satisfying.
Whether youβre baking for a birthday, a family dinner, or just because you deserve a little sweetness in your day, this cake is sure to bring smiles all around.
So grab a box of cake mix, whip up a batch of this luscious strawberry glaze, and enjoy every pink-hued, berry-scented bite!