Instructions: Heat oven to 350 degrees. Grease and flour 3 round pans, 9 x 1 1/2 inches. Mix cake flour and baking powder; set aside (add up to 1/2 teaspoon salt if using unsalted butter).

Beat 2 cups sugar, the dry gelatin and butter in a large bowl with electric mixer on medium speed 3 minutes. Beat in eggs, one at a time. Beat flour mixture and milk alternately into butter mixture. Beat in 1 teaspoon vanilla and the pureed strawberries. Pour into pans.

Bake 25 to 30 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool 10 minutes; remove from pans to wire rack. Cool completely.

Beat whipping cream, 2 tablespoons sugar and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla in chilled large bowl on high speed until stiff. Place one layer, top side down, on cake plate. Spread with 3/4 cup whipped cream; top with 3/4 cup sliced strawberries. Repeat with second layer. Add third layer, top side up. Frost side of cake with Cream Cheese Frosting; pipe decorative edge around top edge of cake with frosting. Spread remaining whipped cream on top of cake. Top with quartered strawberries. Store covered in the refrigerator.

Cream Cheese Frosting: Beat 1/2 cup butter, softened, and 8 ounces of softened cream cheese in large bowl with electric mixer on low speed until well blended. Beat in 4 cups powdered sugar and 2 teaspoons vanilla until creamy.

Yield: 3-layer cake
Prep time: 40 minutes
Baking: 25-30 minutes

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