Ingredients:

  • 1 box (15.25 oz) strawberry cake mix
  • 1 cup water
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil
  • 3 large eggs
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup sliced fresh strawberries
  • 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional)
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Beat the mixture with a hand mixer or whisk until well blended, about 2 minutes.
  3. Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
  4. While the cake is baking, in a separate bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  5. Add the sliced strawberries to the cream cheese mixture and gently fold to combine.
  6. After the cake has baked for 25 minutes, remove it from the oven. Dollop the cream cheese and strawberry mixture evenly over the top of the cake.
  7. Use a knife or spatula to gently swirl the cream cheese mixture into the cake batter to create a marbled effect.
  8. Return the cake to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  9. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before serving. Cut into squares and serve warm or at room temperature.