Ingredients:

  • 1 box (15.25 oz) strawberry cake mix
  • 1 cup water
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup crushed strawberries, fresh or frozen (thawed)
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened)
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts (e.g., pecans or walnuts, optional)
  • 1 cup sliced strawberries for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan with cooking spray or butter.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes until the batter is smooth and well combined. Gently fold in the crushed strawberries.
  3. In another bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
  4. Pour half of the strawberry cake batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over this layer, spacing them evenly. Pour the remaining strawberry cake batter on top.
  5. Sprinkle the shredded coconut and chopped nuts (if using) evenly over the top of the batter.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  7. Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 20 minutes. Garnish with fresh sliced strawberries before serving.
  8. Cut into squares and serve at room temperature. Enjoy!