Introduction:
MeeMee’s 60-year-old strawberry box cake recipe is a timeless classic that’s sure to bring smiles to any gathering.
With its simple ingredients and sweet strawberry flavor, it’s perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers alike.
This cake has been passed down for generations, offering a nostalgic, delightful taste that never fails to impress.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
1 box white cake mix
1 (3oz) box strawberry Jell-O
⅔ cup vegetable oil
4 eggs, beaten
1 cup frozen strawberries (thawed, with juice)
For the frosting:
1 (16-ounce) box confectioners’ sugar
1 stick (8 tablespoons) butter
½ cup frozen strawberries
Instructions:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two 9-inch cake pans by greasing them lightly and dusting with flour or using parchment paper for easy removal.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix and strawberry Jell-O powder. Add the vegetable oil.
beaten eggs, and thawed strawberries with their juice. Mix everything together until the batter is smooth and well combined.
Divide the batter evenly between the two cake pans, ensuring that each pan has an equal amount.
Place the pans into the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
While the cake layers are baking, prepare the frosting. In a separate bowl, beat together the softened butter and confectioners’ sugar.
Once smooth, gradually add the ½ cup of thawed strawberries, blending them in until the frosting reaches your desired consistency.
Once the cake layers have cooled, remove them from the pans and place them on a wire rack or a large plate. Spread a generous amount of frosting between.
the two layers of cake and then apply a thin layer of frosting over the top and sides. Ensure the frosting is evenly distributed for a smooth finish.
For added decoration, you can use fresh strawberries or even additional frosting swirls to embellish the top of the cake.
Let the cake rest for a while before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
How to Make:
To begin, the first step is to gather all your ingredients and ensure the strawberries are thawed, so they are ready to mix into the cake batter.
Once the oven is preheated and your pans are greased, pour the cake mix and strawberry Jell-O powder into a large mixing bowl.
Beat in the vegetable oil, eggs, and thawed strawberries until the batter is smooth and creamy.
After dividing the batter into the pans, place them in the oven and bake for the appropriate time.
When the cakes are done, be sure to test with a toothpick to ensure they are fully cooked. Once the cakes cool.
the frosting can be prepared by beating the butter and confectioners’ sugar together. Add the strawberries slowly to ensure a smooth consistency.
Once the frosting is ready, it’s time to layer and frost the cake. Begin with one layer of cake and generously spread frosting between the layers.
Add frosting on the top and sides and smooth it out for a neat appearance. If you desire, decorate the cake with additional strawberry slices for extra flavor and a polished look.
Variations:
There are plenty of ways to put a unique spin on MeeMee’s classic strawberry box cake. You could switch up the flavor of Jell-O, using raspberry or cherry for a different fruity base.
For a more indulgent frosting, try adding cream cheese for a tangy twist that complements the sweetness of the strawberries.
If you prefer a more decadent version, consider adding chocolate chips or a drizzle of chocolate sauce between the layers of cake.
Another variation could be to add a few tablespoons of sour cream to the batter for an added moist texture.
You could also experiment with different cake mixes, such as lemon or vanilla, to create a fusion of flavors.
For a more tropical flavor, you could add some crushed pineapple or coconut flakes to the cake batter. The possibilities for customization are endless, allowing you to personalize the cake to your tastes.
Tips:
To ensure your cake is perfectly moist, don’t overbake it. Always check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake.
For a smooth frosting, make sure the butter is softened to room temperature before mixing it with the sugar.
If you’re looking for an extra burst of strawberry flavor, try using freeze-dried strawberries in the frosting for a more intense taste.
You could also add a few tablespoons of strawberry jam to the frosting for an added fruity richness.
To make the frosting smoother, you can add a little bit of milk if it becomes too thick. If you prefer a thicker frosting, simply add more powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency.
For a decorative touch, try using whole strawberries or even strawberry jam as a topping.
Chilling the cake in the fridge for about an hour before serving will help the frosting set and make for easier slicing.
If you’re doubling the recipe to make a four-layer cake, be sure to bake each layer individually to ensure they cook evenly. Allow extra time for cooling between layers before assembling.
Conclusion:
MeeMee’s 60-year-old strawberry box cake recipe is a true testament to the beauty of simple, nostalgic desserts.
With just a few ingredients, you can create a delightful cake that will impress your family and friends every time.
Whether you follow the recipe exactly or add your own twists, this cake is guaranteed to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Enjoy every bite of this delicious and timeless treat!