Copycat Paula Deen Strawberry Cake Recipe (Better Than the Original!)
If you’ve ever had a slice of Paula Deen’s famous strawberry cake, you know it’s more than just dessert, it’s a slice of sweet Southern comfort. Moist, fluffy, and bursting with strawberry flavor, it’s the kind of cake that instantly brings back memories of springtime picnics, Easter brunch, or Grandma’s kitchen. But here’s the thing: as delicious as the original is, this copycat version might just be even better.
That’s right, we’ve taken everything you love about the classic Paula Deen strawberry cake and elevated it with a few smart tweaks. No boxed cake mix here, just fresh, vibrant ingredients, a homemade strawberry puree, and a rich cream cheese frosting that ties it all together. It’s easy enough for a beginner baker, but impressive enough to steal the show at your next gathering.
Whether you’re a long-time fan of Paula’s Southern desserts or you’re simply craving a show-stopping strawberry cake, this recipe will deliver the flavor, texture, and wow-factor you’re looking for. And the best part? It’s all made from scratch, with love, of course.
Ready to make a strawberry cake that’s better than the original? Let’s bake!
Table of Contents
💖 Why You’ll Love This Cake
This copycat Paula Deen strawberry cake isn’t just a treat, it’s a celebration of everything we love about classic Southern desserts: rich flavor, comforting texture, and just the right balance of sweet and tangy. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your recipe box:
🍓 1. It’s Made from Scratch (No Boxed Mix Needed!)
While Paula’s original version calls for boxed strawberry cake mix and strawberry gelatin, we’re going all in with real strawberries and pantry staples for a deeper, more natural flavor. Trust us, you’ll taste the difference.
🍰 2. Ultra-Moist and Tender Crumb
Using a combination of strawberry puree and buttermilk, this cake bakes up incredibly moist, fluffy, and tender, just the way a strawberry cake should be.
🧁 3. Dreamy Cream Cheese Frosting
This is where the magic happens. The tangy richness of homemade cream cheese frosting complements the sweet strawberry layers perfectly. It’s smooth, creamy, and completely irresistible.
🌷 4. Perfect for Spring, Summer, or Any Celebration
Whether you’re baking for Mother’s Day, a birthday, a baby shower, or Easter, this cake brings a pop of color and flavor to any occasion. It also makes a stunning centerpiece!
💡 5. Customizable and Freezer-Friendly
You can make this as a layer cake, sheet cake, or even cupcakes. And yes, it freezes beautifully, so you can bake ahead for stress-free entertaining.
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
This homemade strawberry cake recipe skips the boxed shortcuts and leans into fresh, flavorful ingredients. You’ll find everything you need at your local grocery store, or maybe even in your kitchen right now.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this better-than-Paula-Deen strawberry cake from scratch:
🍓 For the Strawberry Cake
- Fresh strawberries (about 1 lb) – For the homemade puree that gives this cake its natural strawberry flavor and beautiful color. (You can use frozen strawberries too, more on that in the tips section.)
- All-purpose flour – Spoon and level for best results.
- Baking powder –This ingredient helps the cake achieve a light, airy texture by encouraging it to rise during baking.
- Salt – Just a pinch to balance the sweetness.
- Unsalted butter – Softened to room temperature for easy creaming.
- Granulated sugar – For sweetness and structure.
- Eggs – For the best texture, use large eggs that are at room temperature before incorporating them into the batter.
- Buttermilk – Adds moisture and that classic Southern tang.
- Vanilla extract – Rounds out the flavors.
- Strawberry extract (optional) – For an extra boost of berry flavor, especially if your strawberries aren’t super sweet.
🧁 For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Cream cheese – Use full-fat blocks (not the whipped kind!) for the richest texture.
- Unsalted butter – Softened for smooth mixing.
- Powdered sugar – For sweetness and that classic frosting fluffiness.
- Vanilla extract – A little extra warmth and depth.
- Strawberry puree or jam (optional) – For a light pink tint and subtle flavor in the frosting.
👩🍳 How to Make Paula Deen’s Strawberry Cake (Step-by-Step)
This copycat Paula Deen strawberry cake recipe may be made from scratch, but the process is simple and totally beginner-friendly. Just follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a stunning, bakery-worthy cake on your hands — no boxed mix needed.
🔥 Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Puree
- Wash, hull, and chop about 1 pound of fresh strawberries.
- Place them in a blender or food processor and blend until smooth.
- Pour the puree into a small saucepan and simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 15–20 minutes. It should reduce by half and become thick like a syrup.
- Let it cool completely before adding to your cake batter.
💡 Tip: You can make this a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Reduced puree adds deeper flavor and helps the cake stay moist without getting soggy.
🧁 Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans (or line them with parchment paper).
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt by whisking them together until fully blended. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3–4 minutes.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Mix in the vanilla extract, strawberry extract (if using), and cooled strawberry puree.
- Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients and buttermilk into the mixture, starting and ending with the flour blend. Mix until just combined, don’t overmix!
🍰 Step 3: Bake the Cakes
- Evenly distribute the batter between the prepared pans and gently level the tops for a smooth finish.
- Bake for 28 to 32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached.
- Let the cakes sit in the pans for 10 minutes to cool, then carefully transfer them to wire racks to finish cooling completely.
🎂 Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cakes are cooling, whip up the dreamy frosting.
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and fluffy.
- Gradually add in the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating on low at first, then increasing speed.
- Add the vanilla extract and a spoonful of strawberry puree or jam for color (optional).
- Beat until the frosting is thick, creamy, and spreadable.
🧁 Step 5: Assemble and Frost
- Place one cake layer onto a serving plate or cake stand and spread a generous amount of frosting evenly on top.
- Place the second layer of cake on top and evenly apply frosting to the top and sides. Smooth with a spatula or go rustic, it’s all delicious.
- Optional: Top with fresh strawberries, freeze-dried strawberry dust, or white chocolate shavings for decoration.
🍓 Make it your own: You can also turn this recipe into a 9×13 sheet cake or 24 cupcakes, just adjust the bake time!
🧁 Cream Cheese Frosting Tips & Variations
No Southern strawberry cake is complete without a luscious cream cheese frosting, and we’ve got all the tips to make yours smooth, stable, and swoon-worthy.
✅ How to Get Perfectly Smooth Frosting Every Time
- Room temperature ingredients are key. Cold cream cheese or butter will make the frosting lumpy.
- Don’t overbeat. Once the frosting is fluffy and holds its shape, stop mixing. Overbeating can make it too soft to spread.
- Add powdered sugar gradually. This helps avoid mess and makes the frosting silky-smooth.
- Chill it if needed. If your frosting feels too soft to work with, pop it in the fridge for 10–15 minutes before spreading.
🍓 Flavor & Color Variations
Want to put a twist on the classic cream cheese frosting? Try these simple upgrades:
- Strawberry frosting: Add 1–2 tablespoons of cooled strawberry puree or strawberry jam for a pretty pink hue and fruity boost.
- Zesty version: A touch of lemon zest or juice brightens the sweetness and pairs beautifully with strawberries.
- Whipped texture: Fold in a bit of whipped cream for a lighter, fluffier version, perfect for summertime!
🎂 Can I Use a Different Frosting?
Yes! While cream cheese frosting is traditional, here are some fun alternatives:
- Strawberry buttercream – for a sweeter, more stable option
- Whipped cream frosting – light, airy, and perfect for a chilled summer dessert
- Mascarpone frosting – rich and slightly tangy, but milder than cream cheese
💡 Expert Tips for the Perfect Strawberry Cake
These tips will ensure your Paula Deen strawberry cake comes out perfectly every time. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a newbie, these little tricks can make all the difference!
🌟 1. Don’t Overmix the Batter
Overmixing the cake batter can result in a dense, tough cake. Once you add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stir gently until everything is just incorporated, avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender. A few lumps are totally fine, they’ll bake out!
🌟 2. Check for Doneness Early
Every oven is different, so start checking the cake around 28 minutes, even if the recipe says 30–32 minutes. Insert a toothpick into the center, if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s done.
🔍 Pro tip: If you’re baking at a higher altitude or using a different-sized pan, you may need to adjust the time slightly.
🌟 3. Cool the Cakes Completely Before Frosting
It can be tempting to start frosting the cake while it’s still warm, but this will cause the frosting to melt and slide off. Let your cakes cool to room temperature before frosting, patience is key!
🌟 4. Use Fresh Strawberries for the Best Flavor
If possible, use fresh strawberries for the puree and frosting. Fresh berries have a more vibrant flavor than frozen, giving the cake that classic homemade taste.
🌟 5. Avoid Overfrosting
While it’s tempting to slather on a thick layer of frosting, a thin, even layer of cream cheese frosting is all you need to balance the cake’s sweetness without overwhelming it.
❄️ How to Store & Freeze Your Cake
Made too much? Want to bake ahead? Don’t worry, this cake stores and freezes beautifully. Here’s how to keep your copycat Paula Deen strawberry cake fresh:
🍰 Storing Leftovers
- Room temperature: If you plan to eat the cake within 2–3 days, you can store it at room temperature in an airtight container. Just be sure to keep it away from heat or direct sunlight.
- Refrigeration: If you need to keep it longer (about 4–5 days), store the cake in the fridge. Cream cheese frosting requires refrigeration to stay fresh.
💡 Tip: If storing individual slices, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a container to keep them fresh.
❄️ Freezing the Cake
- To freeze the entire cake: Once the cake has completely cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- To freeze layers: If you prefer to freeze the layers separately, do the same as above. When you’re ready to use them, let the layers thaw in the fridge overnight before frosting.
💡 Pro tip: You can freeze the frosting separately in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Just thaw it in the fridge and re-whip before using.
📌 Make-Ahead Tips for Stress-Free Baking
- Prep the cake layers ahead of time: Bake the cake the day before and store it in the fridge or freeze it. Frost it on the day you plan to serve.
- Make the frosting in advance: You can whip up the cream cheese frosting 1–2 days ahead and store it in the fridge. Just give it a quick re-whip before frosting the cake.
🏁 Conclusion: Enjoy Your Paula Deen Strawberry Cake
There you have it, a delicious, homemade strawberry cake that’s better than Paula Deen’s original! With fresh ingredients, fluffy cake layers, and a dreamy cream cheese frosting, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, this copycat Paula Deen strawberry cake is a crowd-pleaser that never disappoints. With our expert tips and variations, you can customize it to fit your tastes, dietary needs, or even the season!
Now you’re ready to bake up the ultimate Southern strawberry cake that rivals the classic. If you loved this recipe, be sure to share it with friends and family, or pin it for later!
Call to Action: If you tried this recipe or have any additional tips, feel free to leave a comment below. Happy baking!
If you enjoyed the Copycat Paula Deen Strawberry Cake, you’ll love Paula Deen’s Classic Banana Bread. Both recipes are staples of Southern baking, offering comforting, moist treats made with simple ingredients. For a delicious banana bread option that’s just as easy to make, check out the full recipe here.
Copycat Paula Deen Strawberry Cake
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- 2 round 9-inch cake pans
- Wire cooling rack
- Rubber spatula
- Cake stand or plate
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups – All-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp – Baking powder
- ½ tsp – Salt
- 1 cup – Unsalted butter softened
- 1 ¾ cups – Granulated sugar
- 4 – Large eggs room temperature
- 1 cup – Buttermilk
- ½ cup – Strawberry puree fresh or frozen
- 1 tsp – Vanilla extract
- Optional: Few drops of red food coloring
- Frosting:
- 8 oz – Cream cheese softened
- ½ cup – Unsalted butter softened
- 3 –4 cups – Powdered sugar
- ½ cup – Strawberry puree
- 1 tsp – Vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and prepare cake pans.
- Whisk together dry ingredients.
- Cream butter and sugar until fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, then mix in strawberry puree and vanilla.
- Alternate adding flour mixture and buttermilk.
- Divide batter between pans and bake 28–32 minutes.
- Cool in pans, then transfer to wire racks.
- Make frosting and assemble the cake.
Notes
FAQ
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries if fresh ones aren’t available. However, be sure to thaw and drain the strawberries before making the puree. Frozen strawberries tend to have more moisture, so draining them helps prevent the cake from becoming too soggy.
How Can I Make This Cake Gluten-Free?
To make this strawberry cake gluten-free, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum, which will help give the cake structure and elasticity. Everything else in the recipe can remain the same!
How Do I Keep the Cake Moist?
To keep the Paula Deen strawberry cake moist, make sure you’re using the strawberry puree and buttermilk in the batter. These ingredients help retain moisture. Additionally, be sure not to overmix the batter, as this can result in a denser, drier texture.
Can I Make This Cake Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This cake can be baked a day or two ahead of time and stored in the fridge (tightly wrapped). You can also freeze the cake layers (wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil) and frost later. If you’re planning to frost in advance, store the frosting in the fridge and re-whip it before use.
What Can I Use Instead of Cream Cheese Frosting?
If you’re not a fan of cream cheese frosting, here are some alternatives:
Buttercream frosting: A classic and sweeter option.
Whipped cream frosting: Light and airy, great for a less sweet finish.
Mascarpone frosting: Rich and creamy with a mild tang, a great option for those who find cream cheese frosting too strong.
How Do I Prevent the Cake from Sinking in the Middle?
If your cake sinks in the middle, it could be due to overmixing the batter or opening the oven door too early. To prevent this:
Don’t overmix the batter. Mix until just combined.
Avoid opening the oven door during the first 25–30 minutes of baking. Let the cake rise undisturbed.
Can I Add More Fruit to the Cake?
Certainly! If you want to add more fruit flavor, try mixing in fresh diced strawberries or even blueberries or raspberries to the batter. Just be mindful not to overmix, fold the fruit in gently.
