The first bite of this Best Strawberry Sheet Cake transports you to a sunlit afternoon, where the sweet scent of ripe strawberries mingles with the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked cake. I discovered this delightful recipe during a weekend baking marathon, which transformed a simple craving into a family favorite that my loved ones now eagerly anticipate, whether it’s for birthdays, potlucks, or just a cozy dessert after dinner.
What sets this cake apart is its perfect balance of flavor and ease—it’s so simple to whip up, yet it delivers a stunningly moist and fluffy texture that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. With readily available ingredients, this cake is a generous hug for the soul, versatile enough for any occasion while being forgiving enough for even beginner bakers. Trust me; this delightful creation ensures smiles all around, bringing a sweet taste of summer to your table year-round!
Why is this Best Strawberry Sheet Cake a Must-Try?
Irresistible sweetness: The pureed strawberries add a burst of flavor that elevates this cake from ordinary to extraordinary.
Easy to make: With minimal steps and simple ingredients, even novice bakers can create a stunning dessert.
Family favorite: Perfect for family gatherings, it brings a smile to everyone’s face, making it a cherished recipe.
Versatile options: Feel free to experiment with variations like adding chocolate chips or using whole wheat flour for a healthier twist.
Perfectly moist: This cake’s fluffy texture ensures each slice is delightful, promising a satisfying treat everyone will love!
Best Strawberry Sheet Cake Ingredients
For the Cake
• All-purpose flour – The backbone of the cake, offering structure; can substitute with whole wheat pastry flour for a heartier texture.
• Granulated sugar – Balances the strawberries, creating a fine crumb.
• Baking powder – Necessary for the cake to rise evenly.
• Baking soda – Works alongside baking powder to boost the rise.
• Salt – Cuts through the sweetness and elevates the strawberry flavor.
• Unsalted butter (softened) – Adds tender moisture to the cake.
• Buttermilk – Keeps the cake moist with a subtle tang; a DIY substitute can be made with milk and vinegar (1 tbsp vinegar in 1 cup milk).
• Large eggs – Provide binding, structure, and richness.
• Vanilla extract – Contributes to the warm, homey aroma.
• Fresh strawberries (pureed) – The star ingredient that infuses the cake with a fruity flavor; frozen strawberries can be used after thawing and draining excess liquid.
For the Frosting
• Cream cheese (softened) – Creates a rich, creamy base for the frosting.
• Powdered sugar – Sweetens and adds a smooth texture to the frosting.
• Unsalted butter (softened for frosting) – Enhances the silkiness of the frosting.
For Garnish
• Fresh strawberries (for garnish) – Elevate presentation and freshness, making the cake visually appealing.
How to Make Best Strawberry Sheet Cake
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13 inch baking pan by greasing and flouring it thoroughly, ensuring an easy release later.
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Combine the dry ingredients in a large bowl: whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well mixed.
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Mix the wet ingredients into the dry mixture: Add softened butter, buttermilk, eggs, vanilla extract, and strawberry puree. Stir until the batter is smooth and well combined.
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Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any air bubbles that may have formed.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs clinging to it.
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Prepare the frosting while the cake cools: In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy and smooth.
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Frost the cooled cake generously with the cream cheese frosting, then garnish with fresh strawberry slices on top for a lovely presentation.
Optional: Add a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers for a delicious crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Best Strawberry Sheet Cake?
Imagine delighting your family with a sweet ensemble that complements the luscious flavors of this strawberry delight.
- Fresh Whipped Cream: This light and airy topping enhances the cake’s moistness while adding a luxurious touch that brightens every bite.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy richness of vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the cake’s fruity sweetness, making for an irresistible duo.
- Berry Compote: A drizzle of berry compote brings a tart dimension, perfectly balancing the sweetness of the cake and intensifying its strawberry notes.
- Lemon Sorbet: The refreshing, tangy flavor of lemon sorbet offers a lovely palate cleanse, making it an ideal pairing for warmer days.
- Mint Tea: A warm cup of mint tea provides an aromatic and soothing contrast, bringing a refreshing end to your sweet indulgence.
- Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and texture, punctuating the richness of the cake with a pop of juiciness.
- Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: The decadence of chocolate paired with sweet strawberries creates an elegant and enticing finish.
- Sparkling Water with Lime: A fizzy citrus drink is a simple, refreshing option that cleanses the palate and complements the rich flavors of the dessert.
- Cheesecake Bites: For a decadent twist, pair with mini cheesecake bites; the creaminess matches beautifully with the cake’s texture, perfect for sweet cravings.
Best Strawberry Sheet Cake Variations
Feel free to explore these exciting twists and substitutions for your cake, and let your creativity shine!
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Chunky Strawberries: Fold in additional chopped strawberries to create delightful bursts of flavor and texture in every bite. It adds a beautiful visual appeal and maximizes that fresh strawberry taste!
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Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute a portion of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat for a richer texture and added nutrition. This nutrient boost will make your cake heartier while still maintaining its deliciousness.
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Chocolate Delight: Mix in white chocolate chips for an extra layer of sweetness and a delightful creamy contrast to the fruity cake. The combination is pure bliss, making it an irresistible treat!
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Creamy Frosting Twist: Thin the cream cheese frosting with a splash of milk for a lighter texture. This means you can slater on delicious layers without the cake feeling too heavy.
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Nutty Flavor: Incorporate finely chopped nuts like almonds or pecans into the batter for a wonderfully crunchy contrast to the soft cake. This adds a wonderful depth of flavor and an extra protein boost.
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Zesty Citrus: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the batter to brighten the flavor profile. The citrus notes beautifully complement the strawberries, creating a refreshing taste experience.
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Spicy Kick: For a bit of heat, toss in a pinch of cayenne pepper or ground ginger. This unexpected twist can elevate your cake, making it a conversation starter at gatherings.
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Vegan-Friendly: Swap eggs for ground flaxseed mixed with water (1 tbsp flaxseed with 3 tbsp water per egg) and use a dairy-free yogurt in place of buttermilk to make this cake vegan. Everyone gets to enjoy the deliciousness!
Expert Tips for the Best Strawberry Sheet Cake
- Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting; this prevents the icing from melting and losing its shape.
- Knife Technique: Use a long, sharp knife to cut even slices. Clean the knife between cuts for a tidy presentation of your Best Strawberry Sheet Cake.
- Room Temperature Flavor: To enhance the flavor, let leftovers sit at room temperature before serving. This brings the flavors together beautifully!
- Don’t Skimp on Batter: Ensure you pour the batter evenly into the pan, as uneven batter can lead to inconsistent baking results.
- Storage Savvy: Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for freshness. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best taste experience!
Make Ahead Options
This Best Strawberry Sheet Cake is excellent for meal prep and can be made ahead to save time, making it ideal for busy weeks. You can prepare the batter and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking, ensuring the cake stays just as delicious. Additionally, you can also frost the cake up to 3 days in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge. To maintain the quality, give the frosted cake a few minutes at room temperature before serving, allowing the flavors to blossom. When ready to serve, slice and garnish with fresh strawberries for that lovely touch!
How to Store and Freeze Best Strawberry Sheet Cake
Fridge: Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain its moisture and freshness. Bring to room temperature before serving for optimal flavor.
Freezer: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil; freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying a delightful treat!
Wrapping: For best results, use airtight containers or wrap the cake tightly to prevent dryness. This keeps your Best Strawberry Sheet Cake soft and delicious!
Reheating: If you prefer it warm, simply pop a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, and it will taste just like freshly baked!
Best Strawberry Sheet Cake Recipe FAQs
What kind of strawberries should I use for the cake?
Absolutely! Fresh, ripe strawberries are ideal for this cake as they are sweet and bursting with flavor. Look for strawberries that are bright red and firm; avoid any with dark spots or signs of mold. If fresh strawberries aren’t available, you can use frozen strawberries—the key is to thaw them and drain any excess liquid before pureeing.
How long can I store the Best Strawberry Sheet Cake?
You can store this delicious cake in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cover it tightly to keep it moist. If you want to enjoy it longer, I recommend freezing it; just wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Simply thaw overnight in the fridge before serving!
Can I freeze leftovers? If so, how?
Yes, you definitely can! To freeze your Best Strawberry Sheet Cake, first, let it cool completely. Then, slice the cake and wrap each slice in plastic wrap. After that, place them in an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag. This method helps preserve moisture and flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw the slices overnight in the fridge or pop them in the microwave for a quick warm-up for about 10-15 seconds.
What if my cake is too dense?
Very! If your cake turns out dense, the most common cause is overmixing the batter. Mix just until all ingredients are incorporated, and avoid overbeating, especially after adding flour. Also, double-check your measurements, as too much flour can lead to a heavy texture. If you’re measuring using cups, consider spooning the flour into the cup rather than scooping it directly, as this can compact it.
Is this cake suitable for special diets, such as gluten-free or dairy-free?
Certainly! For a gluten-free version, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. For a dairy-free option, use almond or coconut milk in place of buttermilk, along with a dairy-free butter substitute in the recipe. Do keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly, but it can still be delicious! Always check for any allergies or dietary restrictions of your guests to ensure everyone can enjoy this treat.
Best Strawberry Sheet Cake: Moist & Perfect for Family Fun
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13 inch baking pan by greasing and flouring it.
- Combine the dry ingredients in a large bowl: whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well mixed.
- Mix the wet ingredients into the dry mixture: Add softened butter, buttermilk, eggs, vanilla extract, and strawberry puree. Stir until smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top. Tap the pan on the counter to release air bubbles.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes. Check doneness with a toothpick.
- Prepare the frosting: Beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
- Frost the cooled cake with the cream cheese frosting and garnish with fresh strawberry slices.