Introduction

This Strawberry Texas Sheet Cake is a delightful twist on the classic sheet cake, bursting with fresh strawberry flavor in every bite. With a moist cake base and a creamy strawberry-infused icing, it’s perfect for large gatherings or any occasion where you want to impress with ease.

A close-up image of a square piece of strawberry Texas sheet cake taken out from a larger tray with a woman's hand near the bottom left corner. The cake has two layers: the bottom layer is a moist, red, sponge-like texture, and the top layer is a thick, smooth, pale pink frosting with slight swirls. The piece is placed on a metal baking tray resting on a white marbled surface. The rest of the cake, cut into similar square pieces with the same two layers, fills the tray. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

15.25 oz. box strawberry cake mix
22 oz. can strawberry pie filling (Lucky Leaf recommended)

4 large eggs
8 oz. cream cheese (softened)

1 tbsp. real vanilla extract
1 cup unsalted butter (softened, 2 sticks)

4 cups powdered sugar
1 cup fresh strawberries (washed and sliced)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix and eggs using a wooden spoon until just mixed.

Step 2: Gently fold in the strawberry pie filling without overmixing to keep texture.
Step 3: Spread the batter evenly into a greased 11×17 inch cookie sheet.
Step 4: Bake for 30 to 40 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 5: Allow the cake to cool completely before adding the icing to prevent melting.
Step 6: For the icing, beat together the softened cream cheese, vanilla extract, and butter in a medium bowl with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
Step 7: Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition until fully incorporated and smooth.

Step 8: Mash enough fresh strawberries to measure ½ cup without juice. Measure the juice separately for cooking.
Step 9: Combine the mashed strawberries and juice in a small saucepan and heat over medium heat until boiling.
Step 10: Simmer the mixture for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to a puree consistency. Remove from heat.

Step 11: Place the strawberry mixture in the freezer for 10 to 15 minutes to cool.
Step 12: Remove from the freezer and stir the cooled strawberry puree into the cream cheese icing until evenly combined.
Step 13: Spread the strawberry icing evenly over the cooled cake.

Step 14: Garnish the top with fresh sliced strawberries if desired, then refrigerate the cake before serving to set the icing.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh ripe strawberries for the puree to boost natural sweetness and flavor.
Ensure the cream cheese and butter are fully softened before mixing to achieve a smooth icing without lumps.

For a lighter version, substitute half the butter with Greek yogurt in the icing.
Try adding a tablespoon of lemon juice to the strawberry puree for a subtle tang.

Storage

Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to keep the icing fresh and creamy. When ready to serve, bring the cake to room temperature for about 20 minutes for the best texture. Leftovers can be frozen tightly wrapped for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

How to Serve

A close-up of a rectangular white metal baking pan filled with strawberry Texas sheet cake cut into square pieces, each piece showing two layers: a thick, moist red cake base and a smooth, light pink frosting spread evenly on top with subtle swirling texture, one piece is slightly lifted and separated from the rest, sitting on the pan's surface with crumbs around it; the pan rests on a white marbled textured surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, this cake can be baked and iced the day before serving. Refrigerate overnight to allow the flavors to meld and to keep the icing firm.

What can I use if I don’t have strawberry pie filling?

If strawberry pie filling is not available, you can substitute with homemade cooked strawberries and sugar or use a jar of strawberry preserves, though the texture may differ slightly.