Indulge in a Slice of Summer with This Strawberry Sheet Cake!
Looking to make the most of fresh strawberries? This delectable Strawberry Sheet Cake is bursting with fresh flavors and perfect for any spring or summer occasion! Whether it’s a family gathering or a friendly barbecue, this cake will surely impress.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar (plus an extra ¼ cup for sprinkling)
- ¼ cup milk
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, sliced
For the Strawberry Sauce:
- 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, diced
- ¼ cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons water
Instructions
- Prepare the Strawberry Sauce:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the diced strawberries, sugar, and water.
- Stir occasionally until the strawberries break down and the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Make the Cake Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together cream cheese, eggs, sugar, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Incorporate Milk:
- Stir in the milk to achieve a smooth batter.
- Prepare for Baking:
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Evenly distribute the sliced strawberries on top, followed by a sprinkle of ¼ cup sugar.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the cake to cool on a wire rack before slicing. Enjoy it with strawberry sauce and a scoop of vanilla ice cream!
Elevate Your Dessert
- Garnish Ideas:
- Drizzle strawberry syrup over the cake.
- Add edible flowers or fresh mint leaves for presentation.
Tips for Using Fresh Strawberries
- Use ripe, juicy strawberries for the best flavor.
- For a smooth texture, puree strawberries before folding them into the batter.
Frozen Strawberry Alternative
- If fresh strawberries are unavailable, you can use frozen ones. Thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture.
Adaptable Variations
- Substitutions:
- Coconut oil can replace vegetable oil.
- Greek yogurt or mascarpone can stand in for cream cheese.
- Consider gluten-free flour options for a gluten-free cake.
Baking Alternatives
- Layer Cake or Cupcakes:
- For an 8-inch layer cake, divide the batter between two pans and bake for 25-30 minutes.
- For 24 cupcakes, fill muffin tins and bake for 18-22 minutes, checking for doneness.
You’ll love how easy this Strawberry Sheet Cake is to whip up. Featuring a soft, tender texture and delicious strawberry flavor, it’s an ideal treat for any warm-weather celebration. Happy baking!
Strawberry Sheet Cake FAQs
Can I convert this recipe into a lemon strawberry cake?
Add fresh lemon juice and zest for a citrus twist.
How to make a strawberry filling for layer cakes?
Combine pureed strawberries with sugar and cornstarch on the stovetop until thickened.
Can I use a cake mix instead?
Yes! Substitute a white or strawberry cake mix for the dry ingredients and fold in the sliced strawberries before baking.
Enjoy this delightful dessert during your next gathering, and don’t forget to share your baking experiences!