2002 Winner: Nancy Garrison, Cullman County

1 box Duncan Hines white cake mix
1 small box strawberry Jell-O
1 cup oil
1/2 cup milk
4 eggs
1 cup frozen strawberries
1 cup pecans, chopped
1 cup coconut (optional)

Icing

1 box Confectioners sugar
1 stick margarine
1/2 cup strawberries, drained
1/2 cup pecans, chopped
1/2 cup coconut (optional)

Heat oven to 350 F. In a large bowl, combine dry cake mix and Jell-O. Add oil, milk and eggs one at a time. Add remaining ingredients and mix thoroughly. Bake in three layers or one 9-x-13-inch pan for 25 to 30 minutes. Cool thoroughly before frosting. To make icing, cream sugar and margarine, then add remaining ingredients.

“I still remember being shocked when I won. Participating boosted my confidence to do other things in the community and got me out of my comfort zone.”  – Nancy Garrison