Easy Strawberry Shortcake

Yes, we live right by the Strawberry Capital of the World -- Ponchatoula, LA. Strawberries are really cheap now -- about $10 a flat (which is 12 pints of berries). We love strawberry shortcake this time of year. However, we do not make it the traditional way -- which is a sweet biscuit. No, my family always made our shortcake with a plain old Betty Crocker yellow cake mix. It really is the best way. So, here is our process. 

 1 yellow cake mix (any brand), eggs, oil and water 

2 pints strawberries 

1/2 - 2/3 cup sugar whipped topping 

 Mix the yellow cake mix according to box directions and bake in a 9X12 pan. Prepare strawberries about an hour or two before serving. After cleaning and stemming the berries, cut them into slices. About two pints will be plenty for this size cake. Mix sliced berries with sugar. Allow strawberries to stand with sugar mixture for about an hour or so until they macerate (release their liquids). Cut cake into serving sized pieces. Top with berry mixture and whipped topping. It is delicious and easy.