Description
This cake brings together the best of Southern baking traditions—simple ingredients, bold flavors, and indulgent textures. The buttery base creates a dense yet soft crumb, while the cream cheese layer adds a tangy contrast that perfectly balances the sweetness of the strawberries.
Ingredients
For the Cake Base:
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 ½ cups powdered sugar
For the Strawberry Layer:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced (or strawberry pie filling)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (if using fresh strawberries)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a bowl, mix the cake mix, melted butter, and 1 egg until a thick dough forms. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
If using fresh strawberries, toss them with sugar and let sit for 10 minutes to release juices.
In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until combined. Gradually add powdered sugar and beat until creamy and smooth.
Spread the strawberries evenly over the cake base. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the top, spreading evenly.
Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is set but still slightly soft in the center. Do not overbake.
Notes
- The center should remain slightly gooey—this is normal
- Avoid overbaking to keep the cake soft and creamy
- Use room temperature cream cheese for smooth mixing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40–45 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sodium: 320mg
- Protein: 5g