This delightful Barbie Pink Strawberry Cake is a celebration of color and flavor, perfect for birthdays, tea parties, or any festive occasion. With its moist strawberry-infused layers and luscious strawberry cream cheese icing, this cake is not only a feast for the eyes but also a treat for the taste buds. The vibrant pink hue makes it a showstopper, while the sweet and tangy flavor profile ensures that everyone will be coming back for seconds!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love this recipe because it combines ease and elegance. Using a box cake mix as a base simplifies the process without sacrificing flavor or quality. The addition of fresh strawberry puree elevates the cake, giving it a homemade touch that will impress your guests. The strawberry cream cheese icing is rich and creamy, perfectly complementing the sweetness of the cake. Plus, the fun pink color will bring a smile to anyone’s face, making it a perfect dessert for celebrations of all kinds.
Introduction
There’s something magical about a beautifully decorated cake that captures the essence of a special occasion. The Barbie Pink Strawberry Cake is not only visually stunning but also incredibly delicious. This cake is layered with strawberry goodness and topped with a rich cream cheese icing that adds a delightful tang. Whether you’re baking for a birthday party, a bridal shower, or just because, this cake will surely be a hit. Let’s dive into the details of making this gorgeous dessert that will have everyone asking for the recipe!
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) strawberry cake mix (or homemade strawberry cake)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup strawberry puree (fresh or frozen strawberries blended)
- 1-2 drops pink food coloring (optional, for extra vibrancy)
For the Strawberry Cream Cheese Icing:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/3 cup strawberry puree (fresh or frozen strawberries, pureed)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1-2 drops pink food coloring (optional, for a stronger pink color)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the cakes after baking.
Step 2: Make the cake batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, all-purpose flour, and granulated sugar. This combination will create a light and fluffy texture. Next, add the water, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and strawberry puree. Mix the ingredients until the batter is smooth and well combined. If you desire a more vibrant pink color, feel free to add 1-2 drops of pink food coloring.
Step 3: Bake the cake
Pour the cake batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Make the strawberry cream cheese icing
While the cakes are cooling, prepare the strawberry cream cheese icing. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition until the icing reaches a thick and smooth consistency. Stir in the strawberry puree and vanilla extract. For a more vibrant icing, add a drop or two of pink food coloring and mix until fully incorporated.
Step 5: Assemble the cake
Once the cakes have cooled completely, it’s time to assemble. Place one layer of the cake on a serving platter. Generously spread a layer of strawberry cream cheese icing on top of the first cake layer. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining icing, ensuring it’s beautifully covered.
Step 6: Garnish and serve
For an extra touch of elegance, consider garnishing your cake with fresh strawberries, colorful sprinkles, or edible glitter. This will not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a delightful texture to each slice. Slice, serve, and enjoy your vibrant and delicious Barbie Pink Strawberry Cake!
Serving Suggestions:
This Barbie Pink Strawberry Cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. It can be served alongside a refreshing fruit salad or a cup of tea for a delightful afternoon treat. For an extra special touch, consider serving it with a sparkling beverage to elevate the celebration.
Tips:
- Fresh Strawberries: For the best flavor, use fresh strawberries in the puree. If using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed and drained before blending.
- Storage: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
- Decorating: Use a piping bag fitted with a star tip to create decorative swirls on top of the cake for a professional finish.
- Homemade Cake Mix: If you prefer to make the cake from scratch, substitute the box mix with your favorite homemade strawberry cake recipe.
- Color Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the amount of food coloring to achieve your desired shade of pink. Remember, a little goes a long way!
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes (plus cooling time)
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 350 per slice (based on 12 slices)
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 250mg
Conclusion
The Barbie Pink Strawberry Cake with Strawberry Cream Cheese Icing is not just a dessert; it’s an experience. From the moment you mix the batter to the final slice served, this cake brings joy and delight. It’s perfect for celebrations or simply to brighten up your day. With its stunning appearance and delicious flavor, this cake will undoubtedly become a favorite in your recipe collection. So gather your ingredients, invite your friends and family, and get ready to create sweet memories with this delightful cake!
Questions and Answers:
- Can I use fresh strawberries instead of puree?
- Yes, you can use fresh strawberries! Simply blend them until smooth to create your puree.
- How can I make this cake gluten-free?
- You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that your cake mix is also gluten-free.
- Can I make this cake ahead of time?
- Absolutely! You can bake the cakes a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just frost them the day you plan to serve.
- What if I don’t have pink food coloring?
- If you prefer not to use food coloring, you can skip it entirely. The cake and icing will still be delicious!
- How should I store the leftover cake?
- Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.