Barbie Pink Strawberry Cake with Strawberry Cream Cheese Icing

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)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line with parchment paper.

2. Make the cake batter:

In a large bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, flour, and granulated sugar.

Add the water, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and strawberry puree. Mix until smooth and well combined. If you’d like a brighter pink cake, add 1-2 drops of pink food coloring.

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.

3. Bake the cake:

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.

Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

4. Make the strawberry cream cheese icing:

In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.

Add the powdered sugar, a little at a time, beating well after each addition until the icing becomes thick and smooth.

Stir in the strawberry puree and vanilla extract. If you want a brighter pink icing, add a drop or two of pink food coloring and mix until incorporated.

5. Assemble the cake:

Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving platter.

Spread a generous layer of strawberry cream cheese icing on top of the first cake layer.

Top with the second cake layer and frost the entire cake with the remaining strawberry cream cheese icing.

6. Garnish and serve:

Optionally, garnish with fresh strawberries, sprinkles, or edible glitter for extra flair.

Serve and enjoy your vibrant and delicious Barbie Pink Strawberry Cake!