Delicious Doctored Strawberry Cake Mix Recipe Guide

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The delightful combination of strawberry and lemon creates a refreshing and vibrant taste that dances on your palate.
• Easy to Make: With a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this doctored strawberry cake mix recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile Presentation: Whether you’re hosting a birthday party or a casual get-together, this cake can be dressed up or down to suit any occasion.
• Perfect for Any Season: The fruity flavors make it a hit in the summer, while the rich buttercream frosting adds a cozy touch for fall and winter celebrations.

Introduction

Are you ready to embark on a delicious adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your friends? Look no further than this Doctored Strawberry Cake Mix Recipe! Imagine a cake that’s not only easy to whip up but also bursting with the sweet, juicy flavor of strawberries and a zesty hint of lemon. This cake is the perfect centerpiece for any gathering, whether it’s a birthday bash, a summer picnic, or just a cozy night in. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into the world of baking magic!

Ingredients

• 1 box strawberry cake mix (or white cake mix)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup sour cream (room temperature)
• ½ cup melted butter
• ½ cup milk
• ¾ cup strawberry puree
• 3 eggs
• 1 teaspoon strawberry emulsion or extract
• ½ teaspoon lemon extract

Lemon Easy Buttercream Frosting

• ¾ cup pasteurized egg whites
• 5 cups powdered sugar
• 3 cups unsalted butter (softened)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons lemon extract
• ¼ cup lemon curd (optional)
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare three 8-inch cake pans by greasing them and lining the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Mix well to ensure all dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Add the sour cream, melted butter, milk, strawberry puree, eggs, strawberry emulsion, and lemon extract to the dry ingredients. Mix on medium speed for about 2 minutes until the batter is smooth and well combined.
4. Divide the batter evenly among the three prepared cake pans. Tap the pans gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking!
6. Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. While the cakes are cooling, prepare the Lemon Easy Buttercream Frosting. In a mixing bowl, combine the pasteurized egg whites and powdered sugar. Mix on low speed until combined, then whip on high for about 3 minutes until fluffy.
8. Gradually add the softened butter and salt, mixing until the frosting is light and fluffy (this may take 10-15 minutes). Switch to the paddle attachment and mix on low for an additional 15 minutes for that perfect texture.
9. Finally, add the lemon curd, lemon zest, and lemon extract to the frosting, mixing until well combined.
10. Once the cakes are completely cool, frost the top of one layer, place the second layer on top, and repeat. Frost the top and sides of the cake as desired.

Presentation and Serving Suggestions

This Doctored Strawberry Cake is not just a treat for the taste buds; it’s also a feast for the eyes! Here are some fun ways to present and serve your cake:

• Layered Delight: Showcase the beautiful layers by slicing the cake into wedges and serving on elegant plates.
• Garnish Galore: Top the cake with fresh strawberries, lemon slices, or edible flowers for a stunning presentation.
• Cupcake Twist: Use the same batter to make cupcakes! Frost them with the lemon buttercream for individual servings.
• Mini Cakes: Bake in smaller pans for adorable mini cakes that are perfect for parties or gifts.

Storage and Shelf Life

To keep your Doctored Strawberry Cake fresh and delicious, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend its life, refrigerate it for up to a week. You can also freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh strawberries instead of puree? Yes, you can blend fresh strawberries to make your own puree!
2. What if I don’t have sour cream? You can substitute with plain yogurt or buttermilk.
3. Can I make this cake gluten-free? Yes, use a gluten-free cake mix and flour.
4. How can I make the frosting dairy-free? Use dairy-free butter and a suitable egg white substitute.
5. Can I add more lemon flavor? Absolutely! Increase the lemon extract or add more lemon zest.
6. Is it necessary to use egg whites in the frosting? Yes, they help create a light and fluffy texture.
7. Can I make this cake ahead of time? Yes, you can bake the cake layers in advance and frost them the day of serving.
8. What’s the best way to frost the cake? Use an offset spatula for smooth and even frosting.
9. Can I use a different flavor of cake mix? Yes, feel free to experiment with different flavors!
10. How do I know when the cake is done baking? Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs.