Mama Seward’s Strawberry Cake Recipe

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Mama Seward’s Strawberry Cake Recipe: A Delightful Homemade Treat

Strawberry cakes hold a special charm, and Mama Seward’s Strawberry Cake is no exception. With its moist texture, vibrant strawberry flavor, and luscious frosting, this cake is perfect for birthdays, picnics, or any time you need a sweet treat. The combination of fresh strawberries and a classic white cake base creates a dessert that’s both nostalgic and irresistible. In this detailed recipe, we’ll walk you through the steps to make this delightful cake and frosting, along with tips and frequently asked questions to ensure your success.

Ingredients for Mama Seward’s Strawberry Cake

For the Cake

  • 1 box white cake mix
  • 1 small box strawberry gelatin
  • 1 cup oil
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 4 eggs
  • 1 cup mashed sweetened strawberries (do not drain)

For the Frosting

  • 1 stick butter (softened)
  • 1 lb powdered sugar
  • 1/2 cup mashed strawberries (drained)

How to Make Mama Seward’s Strawberry Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, strawberry gelatin, oil, milk, eggs, and mashed sweetened strawberries.
  3. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated. Use an electric mixer for a smooth batter.

Step 2: Pour and Bake

  1. Grease and lightly flour a 9×11-inch pan, or use two smaller pans for layered cakes.
  2. Pour the batter into the prepared pan(s), ensuring not to fill more than 3/4 full to prevent overflow during baking.
  3. Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  4. Once baked, let the cake cool completely in the pan before frosting.

Step 3: Prepare the Frosting

  1. In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with a hand mixer until smooth.
  2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating well after each addition.
  3. Slowly mix in the drained mashed strawberries until the frosting reaches your desired consistency.
    • If the frosting is too thick, add small amounts of the drained strawberry juice until it spreads easily.

Step 4: Frost and Serve

  1. Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the frosting evenly across the top.
  2. For layered cakes, frost the top of the bottom layer first, then stack and frost the entire cake.
  3. Slice, serve, and enjoy this delightful homemade strawberry cake!

Tips for Perfect Strawberry Cake

  1. Drain Strawberries for Frosting: Excess liquid can make the frosting runny. Be sure to thoroughly drain mashed strawberries.
  2. Use Fresh or Frozen Strawberries: Fresh strawberries provide the best flavor, but frozen ones work well if they are thawed and mashed.
  3. Layering Option: For a more elegant presentation, bake the cake in two smaller pans and frost between layers for added flavor.
  4. Test for Doneness: Insert a toothpick in the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
  5. Chill the Cake: For a firmer texture and easier slicing, refrigerate the cake for about 30 minutes before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of sweetened ones?

Yes, you can use fresh strawberries. Simply mash them and add sugar to taste to replicate sweetened strawberries.

What can I substitute for strawberry gelatin?

If you prefer a natural alternative, use 1/4 cup of strawberry puree and reduce the liquid in the recipe by 1/4 cup.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the white cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix. Follow the same steps for mixing and baking.

How long does this cake last?

The cake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best taste.

Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and frost before serving.

Can I add other fruits to the frosting?

You can mix in a small amount of finely diced fruits like blueberries or raspberries for a unique twist, but ensure they are drained to avoid altering the consistency.

Mama Seward’s Strawberry Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a slice of joy packed with nostalgia and flavor. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just indulging your sweet tooth, this recipe is guaranteed to bring smiles to your table. Try it out and let the magic of strawberries elevate your day!