Name: Fresh Strawberry Sheet Cake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 cups diced strawberries ((1 cup puree)); ½ cup unsalted butter ((melted and cooled slightly)); 4 units eggs ((lightly beaten)); 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2½ cups all-purpose flour; ½ cup sugar; 2 teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 units zest of one lemon; double the recipe Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting; optional to top Fresh strawberries

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

There’s something incredibly special about a Fresh Strawberry Sheet Cake that takes me back to warm spring days spent at family picnics. I remember my grandmother whipping up this delightful cake, her laughter filling the air as she taught me how to blend fresh strawberries into a creamy frosting. Each bite was a burst of sunshine, the sweet and tangy flavors dancing on my palate, reminding me of summer afternoons. Now, as I create this cake in my own kitchen, I feel that same warmth and joy, ready to share it with friends and family. This cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s a celebration of love, laughter, and the simple pleasures of life.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
230 kcal

Protein:
3 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
10 g

Tools Used:
9×13-inch cake pan, Mixing Bowl, Handheld Mixer

With its vibrant appearance and layers of flavor, the Fresh Strawberry Sheet Cake is perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a birthday party, a potluck, or just a casual family dinner, this cake always steals the show. It’s easy to make yet feels special enough to impress. The fresh strawberries blended into both the cake and frosting create a luscious experience that you simply can’t resist. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your baking repertoire.

Why This Fresh Strawberry Sheet Cake Works

1. Seasonal Freshness

One of the standout features of the Fresh Strawberry Sheet Cake is its reliance on seasonal ingredients. When strawberries are at their peak, they are bursting with flavor, making every bite of this cake a true delight. Florals and fruits complement each other beautifully, creating a cake that feels fresh and alive.

2. Simple Yet Elegant

This recipe balances simplicity and elegance perfectly. The straightforward process allows even beginner bakers to create something that looks and tastes gourmet. You don’t need any fancy tricks or techniques to impress your guests!

3. Versatile for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a wedding, a baby shower, or just a Tuesday afternoon treat, the Fresh Strawberry Sheet Cake fits in seamlessly. Its delightful flavor and beautiful presentation make it suitable for any setting.

4. A Family Favorite

This cake has been passed down through generations in my family. Each time I bake it, I’m reminded of those cherished moments shared around the dining table, where stories were told and laughter echoed. It’s not just about the cake; it’s the memories we create while enjoying it together.

5. Easy to Customize

What I love most about this cake is how easily it can be personalized. You can add other berries, adjust the sweetness, or even incorporate a bit of lemon zest for an extra zing. The possibilities are endless, making it a canvas for your creativity.

What You Need for Fresh Strawberry Sheet Cake

When it comes to baking the Fresh Strawberry Sheet Cake, quality ingredients are essential. Each component plays an important role in creating the final product. Using fresh, ripe strawberries ensures that the cake is bursting with flavor, while ingredients like unsalted butter and eggs provide the rich base necessary for a moist cake. Together, these ingredients create a symphony of taste that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

2 cups diced strawberries (1 cup puree)
½ cup unsalted butter (melted and cooled slightly)
4 eggs (lightly beaten)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2½ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
zest of one lemon
Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting (double the recipe)
Fresh strawberries (optional to top)

Preparation Steps for Fresh Strawberry Sheet Cake

Let’s dive into the preparation of the Fresh Strawberry Sheet Cake. It’s a delightful process that fills your kitchen with the sweet aroma of strawberries and baked goodness. With just a few steps, you’ll have a beautiful cake that’s ready to impress. So, let’s get started!

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This is an important first step to ensure even baking. While your oven heats up, take a moment to grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent the cake from sticking.
Next, add the diced strawberries into a blender and blend them into a puree. Measure out 1 cup of the puree to use in the batter. The vibrant pink color will give your cake a lovely hue and infuse it with flavor.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the strawberry puree with the eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well blended. The mixture should be smooth and slightly frothy.
Now, it’s time to add your dry ingredients. Carefully sift in the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and lemon zest. Gently fold the batter together using a spatula, ensuring that you don’t overmix. The goal is to combine the ingredients until you see no dry flour.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly across the top. Watching the batter level out is satisfying and gets you one step closer to enjoying this delicious cake.
Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes. Keep an eye on your cake as it bakes. You’re looking for it to be golden brown around the edges and firm in the center. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This step is critical as it allows the structure of the cake to set properly.
After the cake has cooled, it’s time to spread the Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting over the top. This luscious frosting will complement the cake beautifully.
Finally, if desired, top with additional fresh strawberries to make it even more inviting. Serve the cake at room temperature for the best flavor experience.

Things Worth Knowing

Ingredient Quality: Using fresh, ripe strawberries enhances the flavor significantly. Always choose the best quality ingredients for the best results.
Cooling Time: Letting the cake cool completely is crucial. This prevents the frosting from melting and ensures it stays beautifully spreadable.
Frosting Technique: When applying the frosting, use an offset spatula for a smooth finish and to create beautiful swirls.
Storage: Properly stored, this cake can last up to three days in the refrigerator, making it a great make-ahead dessert.

Recipe Variations about Fresh Strawberry Sheet Cake

There’s always room for creativity when it comes to the Fresh Strawberry Sheet Cake. Here are some fun variations you can try out to make this cake your own:

Different Frosting: You can experiment with other frostings like whipped cream or a chocolate ganache for a unique twist.
Layer It Up: Consider making this cake as a layered cake. Simply double the recipe and stack two or three layers for a show-stopping dessert.
Mix in Other Fruits: You can add other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for an extra fruity flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free version, swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend.
Add a Citrus Twist: Incorporate more lemon zest or juice for a refreshing citrus flavor.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the batter for added texture and flavor.
Fruit Topping: Serve with an assortment of fruits on top for a beautiful presentation.

Perfect Pairings for Fresh Strawberry Sheet Cake

When it comes to serving the Fresh Strawberry Sheet Cake, there are plenty of delightful options to consider:

Light and Refreshing Salads: Pairing this cake with a light green salad can balance the sweetness perfectly.
Picnic Treat: This cake is perfect for outdoor gatherings or picnics, as it can be easily sliced and served.
Seasonal Berries: Serve this cake with a side of seasonal berries for an extra fruity experience.
Breakfast Delight: Don’t hesitate to serve a slice as a sweet breakfast treat with coffee or tea.
Festive Occasions: This cake is an ideal dessert for spring celebrations, like Easter or Mother’s Day.
Storing Leftovers: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

FAQ

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries in the Fresh Strawberry Sheet Cake. However, be sure to thaw and drain them first to remove excess moisture. This will help maintain the cake’s texture. Keep in mind that fresh strawberries typically provide a more vibrant flavor and color, so if you can, opt for fresh strawberries when they’re in season.

To make a gluten-free version of the Fresh Strawberry Sheet Cake, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Look for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend that works best for baking. Follow the rest of the recipe as is, and you’ll still enjoy the same delicious strawberry flavor without the gluten!

Absolutely! The Fresh Strawberry Sheet Cake can be prepared in advance. You can bake the cake a day ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just be sure to frost it with the Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting right before serving to keep it fresh and lovely.

To store leftovers of your Fresh Strawberry Sheet Cake, cover the cake with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap, followed by foil. This way, you can enjoy a piece of cake anytime you crave it!

Conclusion

The Fresh Strawberry Sheet Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors and memories. It brings a touch of spring into every bite, and I encourage you to give it a try. Whether you’re sharing it at a gathering or enjoying it at home, this cake is sure to delight everyone around the table. So go ahead, make it tonight and create some delicious memories of your own!