Strawberry Cake Mix Brownies with Glaze – Easy & Fudgy Dessert

There’s something magical about a dessert that’s both simple and show-stopping, and these Strawberry Cake Mix Brownies check every single box. Whether you’re baking with kids on a quiet Sunday afternoon or whipping something up quickly for a potluck, this recipe delivers pure strawberry bliss with minimal effort. And the best part? You only need a few pantry staples to make it all happen.

When I first stumbled across the idea of using a strawberry cake mix to create brownies, I was skeptical. Would it taste like a boxed cake? Would it have that dense, fudgy brownie texture we all know and love? The answer is yes—but in the best way possible. Instead of being cakey, these strawberry brownies are soft, chewy, and rich. They have a fudgy bite similar to classic brownies but with a completely different flavor profile—one that’s fruity, sweet, and slightly tangy, thanks to the strawberry base.

This recipe quickly became a go-to in my household. The very first time I made these, the kitchen smelled like a strawberry field on a warm spring day. Everyone kept sneaking into the kitchen asking what I was baking. Once they cooled and the glaze was set, we cut them into squares and tried a bite. Instantly, we were hooked. I’ve made these for birthday parties, brunches, and just because, and they never last more than a day.

What makes these brownies extra special is the optional strawberry glaze. It’s silky, creamy, and adds another level of flavor and texture. You can skip it if you want something a little less sweet, but if you’re like me and can’t resist a good drizzle, you’ll be glad you went the extra mile.

If you’re looking for a quick dessert that’s fun, delicious, and guaranteed to impress, keep reading. These strawberry brownies are calling your name.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry cake mix brownies Recipe

There are so many reasons to fall head-over-heels in love with these strawberry cake mix brownies, starting with how incredibly easy they are to make. You don’t need to be an experienced baker or even own a mixer—just a bowl, a spoon, and a baking dish will do the trick.

First, let’s talk about the texture. These brownies have that perfect dense, chewy bite that everyone craves in a brownie, but instead of rich chocolate, you get the bright, fruity flavor of strawberries. The cake mix gives it just the right amount of sweetness, and the eggs and oil transform the dry mix into a decadent batter that bakes into the most irresistible squares.

Then there’s the flavor. If you’re a fan of strawberries—or fruity desserts in general—you’ll find these absolutely irresistible. The strawberry flavor is bold without being overpowering, and it pairs so beautifully with the optional strawberry glaze. That glaze, by the way, is made with strawberry preserves and a hint of cream cheese for creaminess. It adds a touch of elegance and elevates the brownies from a fun snack to a truly indulgent treat.

They’re also incredibly versatile. Want to add a handful of white chocolate chips? Go for it. Prefer them plain and simple? They’re just as good without any extras. You can even cut them into small squares and serve them on a dessert platter or wrap them up as gifts. They hold together well and look gorgeous once the glaze is set.

Lastly, let’s not overlook how kid-friendly these are. Kids love the color, the flavor, and especially the fact that they can help mix everything together. It’s a great recipe to get little hands involved in the kitchen. Plus, cleanup is minimal since you’re only using one bowl.

Whether you’re baking for a special event or just want a sweet treat to enjoy with your afternoon tea, these brownies are a win. You’ll come back to this recipe time and time again.

Health Benefits of these Strawberry cake mix brownies

While these strawberry brownies are definitely a treat, they can still be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. One of the great things about making your own desserts at home is that you have more control over what goes into them. This recipe uses simple, recognizable ingredients, which means you’re not getting any mystery additives or preservatives that often come with store-bought baked goods.

To start, strawberries themselves are naturally rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. While we’re using a strawberry cake mix and preserves in this recipe, there’s still a good dose of that fruity flavor without needing to load the dessert with artificial additives. If you choose a high-quality cake mix like Pillsbury and a preserve like Bonne Maman, you’re already opting for better-tasting and better-quality ingredients.

The optional glaze includes a small amount of cream cheese, which adds not just richness but a bit of calcium as well. If you’re making the glaze, you can also reduce the sugar slightly or use low-sugar preserves for a slightly lighter version.

One surprising health benefit is the portion control this recipe allows. These brownies are rich and satisfying, so you don’t need to eat a huge piece to feel like you’ve indulged. Plus, since they’re easy to slice into small squares, you can enjoy a smaller portion alongside something healthier—like a bowl of fresh fruit or a glass of milk—and still feel like you’ve had a treat.

Additionally, this recipe is free from nuts and can easily be made dairy-free by skipping the optional cream cheese glaze or using a plant-based alternative. That makes it a safer option for families with certain dietary restrictions or allergies.

Of course, it’s always important to enjoy sweets mindfully, but there’s no reason you can’t fit a delicious homemade dessert into a balanced lifestyle. These strawberry brownies are a perfect example of how to do just that.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Before you roll up your sleeves and start baking, here’s what you need to know about how long this recipe will take, how many people it serves, and what kind of nutritional profile to expect.

Preparation Time

One of the best things about this recipe is how fast and easy it is. You can have everything prepped and ready for the oven in under 10 minutes.

  • Prep time: 8–10 minutes
  • Bake time: 18–22 minutes
  • Cooling time: 30–45 minutes (important for glaze setting)
  • Total time: Approximately 1 hour (including cooling)

Servings

This recipe yields one 8×8” pan of brownies, which you can cut into:

  • 9 large brownies
  • 12 medium brownies
  • 16 small brownie bites

Nutritional Information (per medium serving)

Here’s an estimate for one brownie, based on 12 medium-sized servings:

  • Calories: 210
  • Fat: 9g
  • Carbohydrates: 29g
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Protein: 2g

Note: These values will vary slightly depending on your cake mix brand and whether or not you add the glaze. Adding the glaze will increase the sugar and calorie count slightly.

Ingredients List of these Strawberry cake mix brownies

Here’s everything you’ll need to make your strawberry cake mix brownies, plus the optional glaze. The ingredients are simple and likely already in your pantry.

For the Brownies:

  • 1 box strawberry cake mix (Pillsbury recommended): This is the base of your brownie and provides the fruity flavor and pink color.
  • 2 large eggs: These help bind the mixture and give the brownies structure.
  • ⅓ cup vegetable or canola oil: Oil adds moisture and gives the brownies their chewy texture.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: This adds depth to the strawberry flavor.

For the Optional Strawberry Glaze:

  • ¾ cup powdered sugar: This is the base for your glaze and gives it sweetness and thickness.
  • 2 tablespoons strawberry preserves (Bonne Maman suggested): This enhances the natural strawberry flavor and gives the glaze its beautiful pink color.
  • 1½ tablespoons milk: This thins the glaze to a spreadable consistency. Use whole or 2% for best texture.
  • 1 tablespoon cream cheese (optional): This adds richness and a slight tang that balances the sweetness. You can skip it or use a dairy-free alternative.

Optional Add-ins:

  • White chocolate chips or chunks
  • Chopped fresh strawberries (use sparingly to avoid excess moisture)
  • Freeze-dried strawberry powder (for extra flavor)

Now that you’ve got everything you need, let’s walk through how to bring it all together step by step.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions of these Strawberry cake mix brownies

These strawberry cake mix brownies are incredibly easy to make, which makes them perfect for beginner bakers and pros alike. Even though the ingredient list is short and sweet, a few thoughtful steps will help you achieve the perfect texture and flavor. Let’s break it down step-by-step so you can follow along with ease.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your oven is ready when the batter is mixed. Baking in a preheated oven helps the brownies cook evenly from the start, so don’t skip this part.

While the oven is warming up, prepare your baking dish. Grease an 8×8-inch glass baking dish with non-stick spray, butter, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. If you plan to serve directly from the dish, a light greasing will be enough. But if you want to lift the brownies out cleanly for cutting, parchment paper is a great choice.

Step 2: Mix the Brownie Batter

Now let’s bring the brownie batter together. In a large mixing bowl, add the entire box of strawberry cake mix. Use a spoon or whisk to break up any clumps in the dry mix first—this makes it easier to incorporate the wet ingredients.

Next, add the eggs, oil, and vanilla extract. Mix everything together using a spoon or silicone spatula. You’ll notice the batter is thick—almost like cookie dough—and that’s exactly what you want. Don’t worry if it looks too dense at first; just keep folding the ingredients until they’re fully combined and smooth.

Be careful not to overmix. Overmixing can make the finished brownies tough rather than chewy. Mix until you see no streaks of dry mix left, and stop there.

At this stage, if you’re feeling creative, you can fold in any optional add-ins like white chocolate chips or freeze-dried strawberries. About ½ cup of add-ins is a good amount to keep the texture balanced.

Step 3: Press Batter into the Pan

Once your batter is ready, it’s time to transfer it to your prepared baking dish. Because the batter is thick, spoon it into the dish and use a spatula or the back of the spoon to press it evenly into all corners.

Take your time here and make sure the batter is spread out in an even layer. Uneven batter can cause some parts to bake faster than others, resulting in undercooked or overcooked areas.

A neat trick: lightly grease your hands or spatula if the batter is sticking too much. This will help you spread it more easily without pulling the mixture back up.

Step 4: Bake the Brownies

Slide the pan into your preheated oven and set a timer for 18 minutes. You’re looking for the brownies to be just set in the center. The edges may start to pull slightly away from the sides of the pan, and the top should appear dry and slightly crackled.

At around the 18-minute mark, test for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. It should come out with a few moist crumbs, but not wet batter. If needed, bake for an additional 2 to 4 minutes.

Avoid overbaking. Since there’s no chocolate in the mix to mask dryness, overbaking can cause the brownies to lose their soft, fudgy texture. Trust your nose and check early.

Step 5: Cool Completely

Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and place it on a wire rack to cool. Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before slicing or adding glaze. This is crucial.

If you try to slice or glaze the brownies while they’re warm, the texture won’t hold up and the glaze will melt right off. Waiting might be hard, but it’s worth it.

If you’re short on time, you can place the pan in the fridge to speed up cooling. Just be sure it’s at room temperature first to avoid a sudden temperature change that might crack your glass pan.

Step 6: Prepare the Optional Strawberry Glaze

Once your brownies are cool, you can move on to the glaze. This step is optional but highly recommended if you want to take your brownies to the next level.

In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, strawberry preserves, milk, and cream cheese (if using). The cream cheese adds richness and makes the glaze slightly thicker, but it’s not essential.

Whisk until smooth and pourable. If the glaze seems too thick, add an extra teaspoon of milk at a time until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too runny, add a bit more powdered sugar.

Pro tip: Use room temperature cream cheese to ensure a smooth glaze with no lumps.

Step 7: Glaze and Set

Now it’s time to glaze those beautiful strawberry brownies. Pour the glaze over the cooled brownies and use a small spatula or the back of a spoon to spread it evenly. Don’t worry about getting it perfect—part of the charm is in the natural drips and swirls.

Let the glaze set for about 15–30 minutes before cutting. If your kitchen is warm, you can pop the pan in the fridge to help the glaze firm up faster.

Step 8: Slice and Serve

When the glaze is fully set, use a sharp knife to slice the brownies into squares. Wipe the knife clean between cuts for the neatest presentation.

You can cut them into 9 large pieces, 12 medium pieces, or even 16 small bites for party platters or lunchbox treats. These brownies are rich, so even a small square goes a long way.

Serve them as is or with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch.

Strawberry cake mix brownies

How to Serve these Strawberry cake mix brownies

There are so many fun and delicious ways to serve these strawberry cake mix brownies. Whether you’re keeping it casual or dressing them up for a celebration, here are some ideas to get you inspired.

Serve them warm or at room temperature with:

  • Fresh strawberries on top: Add a few sliced strawberries to each square for a fresh burst of flavor and a pretty finish.
  • Whipped cream or whipped topping: A light cloud of whipped cream balances the richness of the brownies beautifully.
  • Vanilla or strawberry ice cream: Turn your brownies into a full-on dessert plate by adding a scoop of creamy ice cream on the side.
  • Sprinkle of powdered sugar: For a touch of elegance, dust a little powdered sugar over the top just before serving.
  • Chocolate drizzle: For contrast, drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over the glaze. The combination of chocolate and strawberry is always a hit.

You can also cut the brownies into small cubes and layer them in dessert cups with whipped cream and berries for a fun trifle-style treat. Or make brownie pops by inserting lollipop sticks into each square—perfect for birthday parties or bake sales.

These brownies are lovely on their own, but with just a little creativity, you can take them to new heights.

Pairing Suggestions

While these strawberry cake mix brownies are delightful all on their own, the right pairing can enhance the overall dessert experience and make the occasion feel even more special. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, preparing for a family get-together, or just treating yourself on a cozy evening, pairing these treats thoughtfully can really take them to the next level.

Beverage Pairings

1. Milk:
You truly can’t go wrong with a cold glass of milk. It’s the classic brownie pairing for a reason. The creaminess of the milk balances the sweetness of the brownies and offers a refreshing contrast to their chewy texture.

2. Hot Tea:
If you’re leaning toward something a bit more refined, try serving these with a cup of herbal tea. Strawberry or chamomile tea makes a perfect match, complementing the fruity notes in the brownies without overwhelming them. A hint of lemon in the tea also brings out the natural berry flavor.

3. Coffee:
A strong cup of coffee or a cappuccino pairs beautifully with these brownies, especially if you’re enjoying them for brunch or as an afternoon pick-me-up. The bitterness of the coffee helps cut through the sweetness and enhances the dessert’s rich texture.

4. Sparkling Water with Lemon or Berry Infusion:
For a light and refreshing non-caffeinated option, try sparkling water infused with a slice of lemon, fresh berries, or a splash of fruit juice. It keeps the palate fresh and balances the dessert’s dense consistency.

Food Pairings

1. Fruit Platters:
Pair these brownies with a vibrant fruit platter. Fresh strawberries, blueberries, kiwi, and melon all bring brightness and a bit of acidity that balance out the richness of the dessert.

2. Yogurt Parfaits:
If you’re serving brunch or a dessert buffet, consider offering small yogurt parfaits alongside the brownies. The creaminess and slight tang of the yogurt play nicely with the sweet strawberry flavors, and the granola adds a nice crunch.

3. Light Sandwiches or Tea Sandwiches:
For a tea party setup or baby shower, offer these brownies with small, savory tea sandwiches. Cucumber and cream cheese, chicken salad, or egg salad sandwiches provide a delightful contrast and make for a balanced, elegant spread.

4. Mini Cheesecakes or Panna Cotta:
For a dessert table, pairing these brownies with something creamy and smooth like cheesecake bites or panna cotta works beautifully. The silky texture of those desserts complements the chewiness of the brownies, and if they’re lightly flavored with vanilla or lemon, they won’t compete with the strawberry flavor.

Occasion-Based Pairings

For Kids’ Parties:
Serve the brownies with mini milk cartons, fruit juice boxes, or strawberry smoothies. Add a scoop of strawberry or vanilla ice cream on the side and sprinkle with colorful sprinkles for extra fun.

For Brunch Gatherings:
Pair the brownies with coffee, tea, fruit salad, and breakfast pastries like croissants or muffins. This creates a lovely mix of sweet and savory options for guests to enjoy.

For Special Occasions:
Dress them up with a dollop of mascarpone cream and a fresh strawberry slice on top. Serve with sparkling water or a non-alcoholic punch garnished with mint and fresh berries.

No matter the occasion, these pairings can help elevate your strawberry brownies from a simple bake to a memorable part of a larger spread.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

These brownies are just as good the next day, which means you can easily make them ahead of time or store leftovers without worrying about sacrificing flavor or texture. Here’s how to do it right.

Storing at Room Temperature

If you’re planning to enjoy the brownies within a day or two, storing them at room temperature is perfectly fine.

  • Storage method: Place the brownies in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap or foil.
  • Shelf life: They’ll stay fresh for up to 2–3 days at room temperature.

Avoid leaving them uncovered on the counter, especially if you’ve added the glaze. The glaze can dry out, and the brownies may become stale if exposed to air.

Storing in the Refrigerator

For slightly longer shelf life or if your kitchen is particularly warm, refrigerating the brownies can help maintain their texture and keep the glaze intact.

  • Storage method: Store them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
  • Shelf life: They’ll keep well for up to 5–6 days in the refrigerator.

Before serving, you can let them come to room temperature or microwave them for about 10–15 seconds to soften them slightly.

Freezing Instructions

These brownies freeze beautifully, making them a great make-ahead dessert for holidays, parties, or future cravings.

How to Freeze:

  1. Let the brownies cool completely.
  2. If possible, leave the glaze off until after freezing, as it can become watery when thawed.
  3. Cut the brownies into squares and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  4. Freeze until solid (about 1–2 hours).
  5. Transfer the frozen squares to a freezer-safe zip-top bag or container. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezer Shelf Life:
Brownies can be frozen for up to 2–3 months without a noticeable change in texture.

How to Reheat:
To thaw, place brownies on a plate at room temperature for about 1 hour. You can also reheat them in the microwave for 10–15 seconds if you prefer them warm.

Adding Glaze After Freezing:
If you froze them unglazed, it’s best to add the glaze once they’re thawed and at room temperature for the best texture and appearance.

Whether you’re planning ahead or saving leftovers, storing and freezing these brownies is a breeze with these tips.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this recipe is beginner-friendly, there are still a few pitfalls that could trip you up if you’re not careful. Knowing these ahead of time will help ensure your strawberry brownies turn out perfect every single time.

Overbaking

This is the most common mistake people make with these brownies. Because the batter doesn’t contain chocolate or the traditional fudgy ingredients, overbaking can lead to dry, crumbly bars. Check for doneness at 18 minutes with a toothpick—if it comes out with a few moist crumbs, you’re good to go. Don’t wait for the toothpick to come out completely clean.

Not Letting the Brownies Cool

It’s tempting to dig into the brownies right after they come out of the oven, but cutting into them too soon can lead to a gooey mess. Also, applying the glaze before they’re cool will cause it to melt off. Let the brownies cool completely for best results.

Using the Wrong Pan Size

Stick to the 8×8-inch pan as recommended. Using a larger pan will make the brownies thinner and can throw off the baking time. If you only have a 9×9-inch pan, reduce the baking time by a couple of minutes and keep a close eye on them.

Skipping the Glaze Set Time

If you add the glaze but don’t let it fully set before cutting, it will smear and run, creating a mess and making the brownies hard to store. Give the glaze at least 20–30 minutes to firm up, or chill in the fridge for quicker results.

Using Cold Cream Cheese in the Glaze

If you decide to include cream cheese in the glaze, make sure it’s softened to room temperature before mixing. Cold cream cheese won’t blend well and may leave you with small lumps instead of a smooth finish.

Mixing the Batter Too Much

Overmixing can result in tough, rubbery brownies. Mix just until all ingredients are combined and you no longer see streaks of dry mix.

Adding Too Many Wet Add-Ins

If you decide to get creative and add fresh fruit like diced strawberries, be cautious. Too much moisture in the batter can throw off the texture and lead to soggy brownies. Use only a small amount or consider using freeze-dried strawberries instead.

Avoiding these common errors ensures you get chewy, flavorful, and picture-perfect brownies every time.

 

Pro Tips

Even the simplest recipes can be elevated with a few expert tips, and these strawberry cake mix brownies are no exception. Whether this is your first time baking them or your fiftieth, these pro tips will help you make the most out of every batch. Small details can make a big difference in texture, flavor, and overall presentation.

Use Room Temperature Ingredients

Starting with room temperature eggs and, if you’re using it, cream cheese for the glaze will make everything easier to mix. Room temperature eggs incorporate more smoothly into the batter, resulting in a more cohesive mixture and better texture. Cold eggs can cause the oil to seize slightly, creating a less uniform batter.

Don’t Skip the Vanilla Extract

While the recipe only calls for a teaspoon of vanilla, it really rounds out the strawberry flavor. Think of it as a supporting actor that brings out the best in the lead role. The warm undertones of vanilla enhance the fruity notes and give the brownies a more “from scratch” taste, even though they’re made with cake mix.

Line Your Pan with Parchment Paper for Easy Removal

If presentation is important to you—say you’re bringing these to a potluck or party—lining your pan with parchment paper is a game changer. Not only does it make cleanup easier, but it also allows you to lift the entire batch out of the pan and cut them into perfectly clean squares.

Use a Plastic Knife to Slice Clean Edges

Want those beautiful, sharp-edged brownie squares like you see in bakeries and blogs? Use a plastic knife instead of a metal one. It may sound odd, but plastic cuts through soft, gooey brownies much cleaner than metal, which tends to drag and tear through the chewy texture. Wiping the blade between cuts helps too.

Let the Glaze Set Before Serving

As tempting as it is to dive in as soon as the glaze hits the top, waiting 30 minutes or so gives it time to firm up. This not only improves the texture but also prevents a sticky mess when cutting and serving. If you’re in a rush, pop the pan in the fridge for 15 minutes to speed up the process.

Add a Touch of Salt to the Batter

It might sound surprising, but adding just a small pinch of salt—about 1/8 teaspoon—to the batter helps balance the sweetness and intensifies the overall flavor. It’s a subtle difference, but it really takes the brownies up a notch.

Boost Flavor with Freeze-Dried Strawberries

If you’re looking to dial up the strawberry flavor even more, try crushing some freeze-dried strawberries and folding them into the batter before baking. They add a punch of concentrated strawberry taste without introducing extra moisture.

Make a Double Batch for a Crowd

These brownies are incredibly popular, and one 8×8-inch pan disappears fast. If you’re baking for a crowd, double the recipe and use a 9×13-inch pan. Increase the bake time by about 5 minutes, but keep an eye on it toward the end to avoid overbaking.

Customize the Glaze

Feel free to experiment with the glaze. Want something a little tangier? Add a splash of lemon juice. Want a creamier texture? Increase the amount of cream cheese slightly. You can even add a touch of pink food coloring for a more vibrant presentation.

Let Them Rest Overnight for Better Flavor

Like many desserts, these brownies develop a richer, more cohesive flavor after resting for a few hours or overnight. The strawberry flavor deepens, and the texture becomes even fudgier. Store them in an airtight container overnight and serve the next day for an upgraded experience.

Armed with these tips, you’re well on your way to baking the best strawberry brownies you’ve ever had.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

With a recipe this popular and customizable, it’s natural to have a few questions along the way. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions to help you troubleshoot and get the best results every time.

Can I use a different brand of cake mix?

Yes, absolutely. While Pillsbury is recommended for its flavor and texture, any standard 15.25-ounce box of strawberry cake mix will work. Just make sure the mix is designed for a single-layer cake, not a larger or specialty mix, as those may affect consistency.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, and it’s actually quite simple. The brownies themselves are already dairy-free if you use a dairy-free cake mix. For the glaze, simply omit the cream cheese or use a plant-based alternative. Use non-dairy milk like almond, oat, or soy in place of regular milk.

Can I skip the glaze?

Definitely. The glaze is optional and the brownies taste amazing on their own. However, if you want that extra touch of sweetness and a slightly fancier look, the glaze is worth the few extra minutes it takes to make.

Can I make these in advance?

Yes. These brownies store well and can be made a day ahead of time. In fact, the flavor and texture actually improve slightly after sitting overnight in an airtight container. Just be sure to let the glaze fully set before storing or stacking them.

Can I use fresh strawberries in the batter?

You can, but be cautious. Fresh strawberries contain a lot of water, which can change the consistency of the batter and result in soggy or unevenly baked brownies. If you want to include fresh fruit, add just a few small diced pieces and blot them dry with paper towels first.

What if I don’t have parchment paper?

No problem. You can simply grease your baking pan well with non-stick spray, butter, or oil. Just be aware that without parchment, it might be a bit trickier to remove the brownies from the pan cleanly. If presentation matters, try lining with foil as an alternative.

Can I freeze these brownies with the glaze?

You can, but the glaze may weep slightly when thawed. For best results, freeze the brownies without the glaze, then add it after they’re fully thawed and at room temperature. This helps maintain both appearance and texture.

How do I know when they’re done baking?

You’ll want to check the center with a toothpick starting at 18 minutes. It should come out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter. The edges may pull away slightly from the pan, and the top will look dry and slightly cracked.

Can I add chocolate chips or other mix-ins?

Absolutely. White chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, chopped nuts (if allergies aren’t a concern), or even a swirl of peanut butter can be great additions. Stick to ½ cup or less so the brownies don’t become too dense or heavy.

Are these brownies supposed to be fudgy or cakey?

They’re meant to be dense and chewy—much closer to a fudgy brownie than a light cake. That’s why it’s important to avoid overbaking or adding too many wet ingredients. The result should be soft and chewy with a slightly crisp edge.

Still have questions? Feel free to ask below or leave a comment. I’m always happy to help troubleshoot or suggest customizations based on your needs.

Conclusion & Call to Action

These Strawberry Cake Mix Brownies are proof that you don’t need complicated techniques or a pantry full of ingredients to create something truly special. In fact, the simplicity is part of what makes this recipe so lovable. With just a few pantry staples and one bowl, you can whip up a dessert that looks beautiful, tastes amazing, and makes any occasion feel just a little sweeter.

Whether you’re serving them as a fun after-school treat, bringing them to a celebration, or just indulging in a little baking therapy on the weekend, these brownies deliver every time. They’re easy to make, easy to customize, and impossible to resist.

I hope you give this recipe a try soon, and if you do, I’d love to hear how it turns out. Did you go with the glaze or keep it simple? Did you add anything fun like white chocolate chips or swirl in a bit of jam? Let me know in the comments or share your creations online.

And don’t forget to bookmark this recipe or print it out for your collection. It’s one of those trusty favorites you’ll want to come back to again and again. If you’re on social media, feel free to tag your finished brownies—I love seeing what you bake and how you make these recipes your own.

Now go preheat that oven and make your kitchen smell like a strawberry dream. You’ve got this.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Strawberry cake mix brownies

Strawberry Cake Mix Brownies with Glaze – Easy & Fudgy Dessert


  • Author: Clara Whisk
  • Total Time: 1 hour (includes cooling)
  • Yield: 12 brownies 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Quick, chewy, and bursting with berry flavor, these strawberry cake mix brownies are made with just 4 ingredients and an optional creamy strawberry glaze.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 box strawberry cake mix (Pillsbury recommended)

  • 2 large eggs

  • ⅓ cup vegetable or canola oil

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Strawberry Glaze:

  • ¾ cup powdered sugar

  • 2 tablespoons strawberry preserves

  • 1½ tablespoons milk

  • 1 tablespoon cream cheese (optional)


Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease or line an 8×8” pan with parchment paper.

  • In a large bowl, mix cake mix, eggs, oil, and vanilla until fully combined.

  • Press batter evenly into prepared pan.

  • Bake for 18–22 minutes, until just set. Let cool completely.

  • For glaze: whisk powdered sugar, preserves, milk, and cream cheese until smooth. Spread over cooled brownies and let set before slicing.

Notes

  • Do not overbake—check at 18 minutes for best fudgy texture.

  • Freeze without glaze for longer storage.

  • Add-ins like white chocolate chips or freeze-dried strawberries work great!

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating