First Step: Prep Oven and Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray two 8×8 inch baking pans with non-stick spray or oil. Wash and finely chop or smash fresh strawberries, ensuring they’re ready for batter and frosting.

Second Step: Mix Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, eggs, milk (or buttermilk), vegetable oil, 1 cup mashed strawberries, and strawberry gelatin powder. Beat thoroughly for about 3 minutes until smooth, scraping the bowl sides as needed for even mixing.

Third Step: Bake the Cake
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30-33 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking times adjust slightly based on pan size; for two 9-inch pans, bake 28-31 minutes, or three 8-inch pans for 28-30 minutes.

Fourth Step: Cool the Cakes
Allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes. Then, transfer onto wire racks to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting or sliding.

Fifth Step: Prepare the Strawberry Buttercream Frosting
Beat the unsalted butter on medium speed for about 2 minutes until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and strawberry powder or pureed strawberries. Add heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat starting on low speed for 30 seconds, then increase to high speed for 2 minutes. Adjust consistency with up to 3 tablespoons of cream or milk if needed.

Sixth Step: Add Cream Cheese (Optional)
For a creamier strawberry cream cheese frosting, fold in softened cream cheese toward the end of mixing. Beat until smooth and lump-free.

Final Step: Assemble and Decorate
Optionally add a layer of strawberry jam between the cake layers for added moisture and flavor. Frost the cooled cake evenly and decorate with fresh strawberries or sprinkle extra freeze-dried powder for vibrant color. Refrigerate if desired and serve chilled or at room temperature.