There’s nothing quite like the sweet burst of strawberries to elevate any dessert, especially during the warmer months. The moment I discovered this Best Strawberry Sheet Cake recipe, I knew I had unearthed something special. Imagine a light, fluffy cake that captures the essence of fresh strawberries in every bite, topped off with a creamy strawberry cream cheese frosting that dances on the palate. Whether it’s for a summer gathering or a simple weeknight treat, this cake is not only easy to whip up but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

You might think that such a delightful dessert would be complex, but this recipe makes baking accessible and enjoyable. Using fresh—or even frozen—strawberries, you can create a moist, flavorful cake in no time. Let’s dive into the bliss of homemade goodness with this vibrant Strawberry Sheet Cake that promises to bring smiles to every table!

Why is Strawberry Sheet Cake a Must-Try?

Delightful Flavor: Imagine the sweet, refreshing burst of strawberries beautifully capturing summer vibes in every forkful.

Easy Preparation: No intricate techniques are required! Just a few simple steps make this an effortless recipe for bakers of all levels.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or family gatherings, this cake is bound to win hearts and taste buds alike.

Versatile Options: Use fresh or frozen strawberries, and even customize with flavors like lemon for a twist!

Moist Texture: Thanks to the creamy frosting and juicy strawberries, every slice remains tender and indulgent.

This Strawberry Sheet Cake is the perfect addition to your dessert lineup, and if you’re looking for more fruity inspirations, check out our Delightful Strawberry Spinach Salad.

Strawberry Sheet Cake Ingredients

For the Cake
Fresh Strawberries – Provides natural sweetness and moisture for the cake; ensure they are pureed properly.
White Cake Mix – Acts as the base for the cake, providing structure and flavor; can be replaced with strawberry cake mix for enhanced flavor.
Large Eggs – Contributes to the cake’s structure and moisture; egg whites can be used for a lighter cake.
Vegetable Oil – Adds moisture and tenderness; melted butter or other oils like canola or avocado oil can be substituted.
Strawberry Flavored Instant Gelatin – Intensifies the strawberry flavor and enhances color; can be omitted for a less intense flavor, but the color may be impacted.
For the Frosting
Unsalted Butter – Adds creaminess; can be replaced with margarine or vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
Cream Cheese – Provides richness and tang; softened ricotta can be substituted for a lighter texture.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor in both the cake and frosting; avoid substituting for best results.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the frosting and gives a smooth texture; can use granulated sugar, but blend longer for smoothness.
Strawberry Puree – Adds fresh strawberry flavor to the frosting; fresh or thawed frozen strawberries can be pureed for this purpose.

How to Make Strawberry Sheet Cake

Prepare Strawberries: Wash, hull, and puree fresh strawberries until slightly chunky, reserving enough for the frosting. This adds natural sweetness and freshness to the cake.
Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13 inch pan by greasing it with nonstick spray. This ensures an easy release once baked.
Mix Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, blend the cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, 1 cup strawberry puree, and strawberry flavored gelatin until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Bake Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow it to cool completely in the pan.
Make Frosting: In a separate bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until fluffy. Then, incorporate vanilla, the remaining strawberry puree, and gelatin. Adjust the mixture with more sugar if it’s too thin.
Frost Cake: Once the cake is completely cool, spread the creamy frosting evenly over the top, covering all the delicious strawberry goodness.

Optional: Top with sliced fresh strawberries for a beautiful presentation.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Strawberry Sheet Cake?

Elevate your dessert experience with these lovely pairings that complement the vibrant flavors of this delightful cake.

Fresh Berries: Juicy raspberries or blueberries on the side offer a refreshing contrast and enhance the berry theme.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of light, airy whipped cream adds a luscious touch, perfectly balancing the sweetness of the frosting.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy and slightly warm, a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside the cake creates a heavenly fusion.
Iced Tea: A refreshing glass of sweetened or unsweetened iced tea will cleanse the palate between bites, adding a soothing element to this sweet treat.
Lemon Sorbet: For a zesty twist, serve lemon sorbet as a palate cleanser that beautifully contrasts the rich frosting.
Chocolate Sauce: A drizzle of warm chocolate sauce provides a rich, indulgent layer, creating a delightful flavor interplay with the strawberries.
Almond Milk: Enjoy a glass of chilled almond milk with the cake. Its nutty notes can add a subtle depth to the overall festive experience.
Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad with melons and citrus is light and refreshing, rounding out the dessert table with a burst of color and flavor.

With these delicious options, your strawberry sheet cake will shine even brighter!

Strawberry Sheet Cake Variations

Customize this delightful cake to match your personal taste or dietary preferences; let your creativity shine!

Lemon Cake Mix: Swap white cake mix for lemon to create a refreshing strawberry-lemon flavor fusion that sings of summer.
Cupcake Conversion: Turn the batter into cupcakes; just adjust the baking time to 15-20 minutes for delightful single servings.
Fruit Puree Delight: Experiment with other fruit purees, like raspberry or blueberry, in your frosting for a colorful, fruity burst.
Dairy-Free Option: Use vegan butter and dairy-free cream cheese for a deliciously creamy frosting that suits a dairy-free lifestyle.
Whole Wheat Twist: Substitute half of the white cake mix with whole wheat flour for a nutty flavor and a slightly denser texture.
Nuts & Spices: Add chopped walnuts or cinnamon to the batter for extra crunch and flavor complexity; this creates an unexpected yet delightful surprise.
Chocolate Drizzle: A decadent twist—top your frosted cake with a drizzle of chocolate ganache for an indulgent finish that chocolate lovers will adore.
Spiced Version: Incorporate a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom into the batter for a warm, spiced undertone that enhances the strawberry flavors beautifully.

How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Sheet Cake

Room Temperature: Keep the uncovered cake on the counter for up to 2 days, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Fridge: Store the covered Strawberry Sheet Cake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This helps retain its moisture and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the unfrosted cake in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, freezing for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before frosting.
Reheating: If desired, warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a delightful, fresh-from-the-oven feel.

Expert Tips for Strawberry Sheet Cake

Use Fresh Strawberries: Fresh strawberries provide superior flavor and texture. If using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed and well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the cake.
Check Baking Time: Ovens can vary; start checking for doneness at 30 minutes. The cake should spring back lightly when touched, and a toothpick should come out clean.
Frosting Consistency: If your frosting is too thin, add more powdered sugar. Refrigerate for about 10 minutes to help it firm up before spreading.
Layered Decoration: For an impressive presentation, add a thin layer of frosting and top with sliced strawberries, turning your strawberry sheet cake into a visual delight.
Chill Before Serving: Allow the cake to chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving. This will help the flavors meld and the frosting set, enhancing your Strawberry Sheet Cake experience.

Make Ahead Options

These delightful Strawberry Sheet Cake preparations are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time! You can prepare the cake itself up to 24 hours in advance; simply bake and allow it to cool completely before wrapping it in plastic wrap to keep it moist. The frosting can also be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; just make sure to place it in an airtight container to maintain its fluffy texture. When you’re ready to serve, simply frost the chilled cake and add your sliced strawberries for an elegant touch. With these steps, you’ll have a magnificent dessert ready with minimal effort on the day of your gathering!

Strawberry Sheet Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of strawberries should I use for the best results?
Absolutely! Fresh strawberries are ideal as they offer the sweetest flavor and moisture. If using frozen strawberries, ensure they’re fully thawed and well-drained to avoid excess moisture, which could affect the cake’s texture.

How long can I store my Strawberry Sheet Cake in the refrigerator?
You can keep the covered Strawberry Sheet Cake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This not only preserves its flavor but helps maintain that wonderful moisture, ensuring each slice remains delightful!

Can I freeze my Strawberry Sheet Cake? If so, how?
Yes! For freezing, wrap the unfrosted cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It’s safe to freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before frosting it.

What if my frosting is too thin?
If you find your frosting is too thin, no worries! Add a bit more powdered sugar to achieve your desired consistency. Alternatively, refrigerate the frosting for about 10 minutes to help it set before applying it to your cake.

Is this Strawberry Sheet Cake safe for people with allergies?
Great question! This cake contains common allergens like eggs and gluten. If you have specific dietary concerns, consider using egg substitutes and gluten-free cake mix options. Always check the labels of your specific products to ensure they meet your dietary needs.

How should I serve my Strawberry Sheet Cake for the best experience?
For the ultimate enjoyment, serve your Strawberry Sheet Cake chilled! Allow it to rest in the refrigerator for about an hour before serving. This helps the flavors meld beautifully, turning this already delightful dessert into an unforgettable experience!