strawberry cake with options!

Tried and true. This one is asked for again and again.

This is the basic recipe and can be varied.

(sorry, no pic for the first variation)

1 strawberry cake mix

2/3 c oil

1 box vanilla pudding mix

4 eggs

1 t vanilla

1 strawberry soda

Mix in that order. Slowly add soda at the end.

Variation 1:

3 c frozen strawberries -thawed

1/4 c sugar - mix with strawberries

1 pkg strawberry gelatin - mixed and chilled until semi-firm

Poke holes with straw in finished, cooled cake (in or out of pan). Spread gelatin over cake. Let soak. Spread strawberries over that. Let soak.

Top with:

2 c. heavy cream

1/2 c powdered sugar

2 t vanilla

Begin whipping cream with whisk in a COLD bowl. As it begins to foam/thicken, add sugar. When soft peaks form, add vanilla. Then beat quickly until stiff peaks.

Dollop the cream on top. Decorate with sprinkles or fresh strawberry slices.
Variation 2:

1 (8 oz) pkg cream cheese - soft

1 stick butter - soft

3 1/2 to 6 c powdered sugar -depending on how thick you want it (I go for the thicker side)

1/2 c smashed, WELL-DRAINED strawberries (I use frozen)

(can also add 1/2 c coconut and 1/2 c pecans)

Beat together the cream cheese and butter. Add powdered sugar, slowly. That's all!