Upside Down Strawberry Cake is a delightful twist on traditional desserts that brings a burst of flavor with fresh strawberries. This easy-to-make cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday celebration or a casual family dinner. The combination of sweet strawberries and fluffy cake is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Cake
- How to Make Upside Down Strawberry Cake
- Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
- Step 2: Add Jell-O and Marshmallows
- Step 3: Mix the Cake Batter
- Step 4: Bake the Cake
- Step 5: Flip and Serve
- How to Serve Upside Down Strawberry Cake
- Serve with Fresh Strawberries
- Top with Whipped Cream
- Pair with Vanilla Ice Cream
- Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce
- Accompany with Mint Leaves
- Create Mini Dessert Cups
- How to Perfect Upside Down Strawberry Cake
- Best Side Dishes for Upside Down Strawberry Cake
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Upside Down Strawberry Cake
- Reheating Upside Down Strawberry Cake
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What makes this an Upside Down Strawberry Cake?
- Can I use frozen strawberries in this recipe?
- How do I customize my Upside Down Strawberry Cake?
- What is the best way to serve this cake?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe starts with a box cake mix, making preparation a breeze for both novice and experienced bakers.
- Fresh Flavors: Using fresh strawberries elevates the taste, providing a sweet and fruity experience in every bite.
- Versatile Dessert: Perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or just a cozy night in, this cake fits every occasion beautifully.
- Impressive Presentation: The upside-down style creates an eye-catching dessert that’s sure to be the star of your table.
- Customizable Toppings: Serve with Cool Whip or homemade whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Tools and Preparation
To create this delicious Upside Down Strawberry Cake, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Fork
- 9×13 inch cake pan
- Oven
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly and ensuring even mixing.
- Fork: Useful for crushing strawberries quickly without much fuss.
- 9×13 inch cake pan: The perfect size for baking this cake evenly while allowing it to rise beautifully.
- Oven: A reliable oven ensures that your cake is baked to perfection.
Ingredients
Delicious strawberry cake that starts with a box caked mixed and is infused with fresh strawberries! It’s so easy anyone can make it!
For the Cake
- 2 c. fresh strawberries
- 2 boxes strawberry Jell-O (3 oz each)
- 3 c. miniature marshmallows
- 15.25 oz. strawberry cake mix + ingredients to prepare cake mix
- Cool Whip or Homemade Whipped Cream

How to Make Upside Down Strawberry Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
- Take your two cups of strawberries and crush them with a fork.
- Pour the crushed strawberries into a greased 9×13 inch cake pan.
Step 2: Add Jell-O and Marshmallows
- Sprinkle the strawberry Jell-O over the top of the crushed strawberries.
- Then sprinkle the miniature marshmallows evenly over the Jell-O layer.
Step 3: Mix the Cake Batter
- Prepare the strawberry cake mix according to package directions.
- Pour the prepared batter over the marshmallows in the pan.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Bake for 40-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let sit for about 15 minutes before running a knife around the edges.
Step 5: Flip and Serve
- Carefully flip the cake onto a serving tray to reveal its beautiful strawberry topping.
- Refrigerate until ready to serve, then enjoy with Cool Whip or homemade whipped cream!
This Upside Down Strawberry Cake offers an easy yet impressive dessert option that everyone will love!
How to Serve Upside Down Strawberry Cake
Serving your Upside Down Strawberry Cake can elevate its appeal and make it a delightful centerpiece at any gathering. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dessert experience.
Serve with Fresh Strawberries
- Slice fresh strawberries on top for added freshness and color. This will complement the flavors of the cake beautifully.
Top with Whipped Cream
- Add a generous dollop of Cool Whip or homemade whipped cream. This creamy addition balances the sweetness of the cake.
Pair with Vanilla Ice Cream
- Serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold ice cream melts slightly on the cake, creating an irresistible combination.
Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce
- For a decadent twist, drizzle chocolate sauce over each slice. This rich flavor pairs wonderfully with strawberries.
Accompany with Mint Leaves
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and a refreshing taste that enhances the overall experience.
Create Mini Dessert Cups
- Layer pieces of cake in small cups with whipped cream and strawberries for an individual treat that looks as good as it tastes.
How to Perfect Upside Down Strawberry Cake
To ensure your Upside Down Strawberry Cake turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Use fresh strawberries: Fresh strawberries provide the best flavor and texture compared to frozen ones, enhancing the cake’s quality.
- Grease pan thoroughly: Make sure your cake pan is well-greased to prevent sticking. This ensures a smooth release after baking.
- Check doneness carefully: Use a toothpick to test if the cake is done. Insert it into the center; it should come out clean when baked correctly.
- Let it cool slightly: Allowing the cake to cool for about 15 minutes before flipping helps maintain its shape and prevents breakage.
- Store properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and flavor for several days.

Best Side Dishes for Upside Down Strawberry Cake
Pairing side dishes with your Upside Down Strawberry Cake can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some delicious options that complement this sweet treat.
- Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits offers a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
- Cheese Platter: A variety of cheeses can balance the sweetness, providing savory notes alongside the dessert.
- Lemon Sorbet: The tangy sorbet cleanses the palate and adds a zesty touch that pairs well with strawberries.
- Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: Salty pretzels dipped in chocolate add crunch and a unique flavor contrast.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt, granola, and berries for a light option that complements the richness of the cake.
- Pecan Pie Bars: These bars introduce nutty flavors that work well alongside fruity desserts like strawberry cake.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can make your Upside Down Strawberry Cake turn out perfectly. Here are a few pitfalls to watch for:
- Using stale strawberries: Always select fresh strawberries for the best flavor. Check for firmness and vibrant color.
- Skipping the greasing step: Not greasing the pan properly can lead to sticking. Use cooking spray or butter to ensure a smooth release.
- Overmixing the cake batter: Mixing too much can make the cake dense. Stir just until combined for a lighter texture.
- Not checking for doneness: Relying solely on baking time can be misleading. Use a toothpick to test for doneness; it should come out clean.
- Ignoring cooling time: Cutting into the cake too soon can ruin its structure. Let it cool for at least 15 minutes before flipping.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
- Upside Down Strawberry Cake lasts about 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Upside Down Strawberry Cake
- Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- It can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Upside Down Strawberry Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 30 seconds to 1 minute, checking often.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat; cover and warm gently for about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this an Upside Down Strawberry Cake?
This cake is called an upside-down cake because it is baked with strawberries on the bottom, which then become the top layer when flipped over.
Can I use frozen strawberries in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries if fresh ones are unavailable. Just thaw and drain excess moisture before using.
How do I customize my Upside Down Strawberry Cake?
Feel free to add different fruits like blueberries or peaches, or incorporate nuts for added texture.
What is the best way to serve this cake?
Serve with Cool Whip or homemade whipped cream to enhance its sweetness and texture. You can also garnish with fresh mint leaves.
Final Thoughts
The Upside Down Strawberry Cake is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Its fruity flavors and easy preparation make it perfect for any occasion. Try customizing it with your favorite fruits or toppings! Enjoy baking this delightful dessert!
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Upside Down Strawberry Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 people 1x
Description
Upside Down Strawberry Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of fresh strawberries with a fluffy cake base, creating a stunning centerpiece for any occasion. This easy-to-make treat is perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or simply a cozy family dinner. With its eye-catching presentation and delicious flavor, this cake will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet cravings. The use of fresh strawberries not only enhances the taste but also adds a burst of color, making it as appealing to the eyes as it is to the palate. Whether served warm with whipped cream or chilled as a refreshing dessert, this Upside Down Strawberry Cake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh strawberries
- 2 boxes (3 oz each) strawberry Jell-O
- 3 cups miniature marshmallows
- 15.25 oz strawberry cake mix (plus ingredients to prepare)
- Cool Whip or homemade whipped cream
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Crush the strawberries with a fork and spread them in a greased 9×13 inch cake pan.
- Sprinkle the Jell-O over the strawberries, followed by the marshmallows.
- Prepare the strawberry cake mix according to package directions and pour over the marshmallows.
- Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool for 15 minutes before flipping onto a serving tray.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (100g)
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg