1. Preheat and prep

Set your oven rack in the middle and preheat to 350°F. Grease your baking dish with non-stick spray or butter to prevent sticking.

2. Cream the butter, jello, and sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, strawberry jello, and sugar together for about two to three minutes until light and fluffy. This step is key to a soft cake!

3. Add eggs and vanilla

Mix in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, stir in the vanilla extract.

4. Combine the dry ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution, so you don’t get any clumps in the batter.

5. Mix everything together

Gradually add half of the dry ingredients to the butter mixture and mix. Pour in all of the buttermilk and stir well. Then, add the remaining flour and mix until just combined.

6. Stir in the strawberry puree

Gently fold in the ½ cup of fresh strawberry puree. The batter will turn a beautiful pink and smell absolutely amazing.

7. Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared dish and bake for 38-42 minutes. Check with a toothpick at the 38-minute mark—if it comes out clean, it’s done! Let the cake cool completely before frosting.