Blush Velvet Strawberry Cake Recipe

When you crave a treat that’s as pretty as it is delicious, the Blush Velvet Strawberry Cake comes to the rescue with a burst of strawberry flavor and the softest, fluffiest crumb you can imagine. This irresistible cake combines a handful of pantry staples with juicy, fresh strawberries for a dessert that radiates charm—and did I mention that thick, glossy pink glaze? It’s literally joy dripped over cake. Whether you bake it for celebrations, a springtime brunch, or simply to surprise your taste buds, this recipe delivers the deepest berry warmth in every single slice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Blush Velvet Strawberry Cake is delightfully simple, yet each item plays an important role in building flavor, texture, or that dreamy blush color. No ingredient is just a bystander—each one makes its own magic here!

• Strawberry cake mix: The perfect shortcut for a tender, strawberry-infused base that never disappoints.
• Mashed fresh strawberries: These add a juicy burst of real fruit flavor and the most natural blush hue you could wish for.
• Vegetable oil: Keeps the cake supremely moist and soft in every bite.
• Large eggs: Essential for binding everything together and lending richness to the crumb.
• Sour cream: Gives a tangy twist and helps create that gorgeous, velvety texture we’re after.
• Vanilla extract: Just a splash deepens the strawberry notes and rounds out the flavors beautifully.
• Powdered sugar: The backbone of the glaze—adds structure and sweetness that’s not too heavy.
• Strawberry puree: Freshens up the glaze, brings color, and intensifies the berry experience.
• Lemon juice: A dash brightens the glaze and amps up all the strawberry flavors.
• Heavy cream (optional): A little swirl makes the glaze silkier and extra luscious.
• Whole & sliced strawberries: For that stunning, joy-filled garnish on top!

How to Make Blush Velvet Strawberry Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Give your favorite square or loaf pan a generous rub of oil or a spritz of nonstick spray. You want every corner ready to welcome the cake (and easy release is always a win).

Step 2: Mix Up the Blush Velvet Strawberry Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, mashed fresh strawberries, vegetable oil, eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Stir with a spatula or hand mixer until you have a smooth, uniform batter. The color should remind you of a spring sunset!

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Pour the pretty pink batter into the prepared pan, smoothing out the top. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or just until a toothpick poked in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. The aroma will fill the kitchen—don’t be surprised if everyone comes wandering in.

Step 4: Cool Completely Before Glazing

Let the cake rest in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it onto a rack to cool completely. This step is everything—so the glorious strawberry glaze won’t melt and run away!

Step 5: Whip Up That Stunning Strawberry Glaze

Blend the powdered sugar, strawberry puree, lemon juice, and (if using) a spoonful of heavy cream in a bowl until smooth and pourable. It should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but fluid enough to easily cascade over your cooled cake.

Step 6: Glaze the Cake

Gently pour the glaze over the entire cake, letting it trickle down the sides naturally. There’s nothing more satisfying than seeing that pink glaze hug every curve and edge.

Step 7: Decorate for Pure Joy

Top your masterpiece with a whole strawberry and a few artistic slices for extra color and that irresistible, fresh-from-the-garden vibe. Every slice will be a feast for the eyes.

How to Serve Blush Velvet Strawberry Cake

Garnishes

The simplest finish is often the loveliest: crown the cake with a whole strawberry, some bright slices, or even a scattering of mint leaves for a dash of green. If you love a little sparkle, sift extra powdered sugar on top just before serving for a gentle, snowy touch.

Side Dishes

This Blush Velvet Strawberry Cake is a showstopper all on its own, but you can absolutely pair it with lightly whipped cream, a scoop of tangy vanilla yogurt, or even a handful of chocolate chips on the side if you want to lean into that strawberry-chocolate fantasy. For a full dessert spread, serve alongside fresh berries or a fruit salad.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn the cake out onto a beautiful cake stand, then drizzle the glaze in artful zigzags. For parties, slice the cake into petite bars and arrange on a fancy platter with extra berries. You can even layer cubes of Blush Velvet Strawberry Cake with whipped cream and strawberries in pretty glasses for mini trifles—adorable AND delicious!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra cake (lucky you!), just cover any leftovers tightly and pop them in the fridge. The glaze sets up beautifully, so each slice will stay moist and lovely for up to four days—a sweet snack anytime.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap individual cake slices (without glaze is best) in plastic and store in a freezer-safe container. Bring them out when you crave a taste of summer, adding glaze once the slices are thawed for the freshest look and flavor.

Reheating

While this luscious cake truly shines when served at room temperature, you can give chilled cake a short sit at room temp for about 20 minutes. If you froze it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then let it rest on the counter before glazing and serving. Warm cake pieces ever-so-briefly in the microwave for those who love a cozy treat.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Thaw and drain the strawberries well, then mash before using. The color and flavor will still be fantastic, just keep an eye on batter thickness and adjust if needed.

Can I make Blush Velvet Strawberry Cake as cupcakes?

Yes, you can turn the batter into adorable cupcakes—just scoop into lined muffin tins and bake at the same temperature for about 18 to 20 minutes. Watch for that signature blush when testing doneness!

How do I make the glaze thicker or thinner?

If you like a thicker glaze, add extra powdered sugar. For a thinner, more pourable finish, add a tiny splash of cream or even a hint more strawberry puree until you hit your perfect texture.

Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?

Swap the sour cream with your favorite non-dairy yogurt and skip the cream in the glaze, or use a plant-based cream if you’d like. The results are still divinely moist and berry-filled.

Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?

Totally! Mini chocolate chips give a fabulous chocolate-strawberry twist, or you can gently fold in some chopped toasted pecans or walnuts for added crunch. Play and make it your own!

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like sharing a slice of Blush Velvet Strawberry Cake with friends and family—it’s bright, moist, and bursting with berry bliss. Give it a try, snap a photo, and let the smiles begin!

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