These easy strawberry brownies are made with a cake mix shortcut and come together in just 25 minutes — soft, chewy,
and finished with a glossy strawberry glaze that makes them completely irresistible.
I have a soft spot for recipes like this because they barely feel like cooking,
yet somehow turn out ridiculously good.
These strawberry brownies are made with a cake mix shortcut (yes, really), but don’t let that fool you.
They bake up soft, chewy, and packed with sweet strawberry flavour, finished with a glossy glaze that takes them over the top.
This is the kind of dessert you make when you want maximum payoff with minimal effort. No complicated steps, no fancy ingredients — just mix, bake, and you’re done.
Dangerous, really.
Why You’ll Love These Strawberry Brownies
Made with a strawberry cake mix and just a handful of pantry staples, these are genuinely one of the easiest strawberry dessert recipes you can make.
No creaming butter, no complicated steps — just mix everything in one bowl and bake.
They come out soft and chewy every single time, and the strawberry glaze on top takes them from simple to seriously impressive.
Perfect for summer parties, potlucks, or honestly just a Tuesday.
Ingredients for Easy Strawberry Brownies with Cake Mix
You only need four ingredients for the brownies themselves — strawberry cake mix, eggs, oil, and vanilla. That is it.
The glaze takes a few more minutes but uses simple pantry staples too.
The cream cheese in the glaze is optional but highly recommended —
it adds a slight tang that balances the sweetness perfectly.
For Strawberry Brownies
- Strawberry Cake Mix – the base of the recipe that gives these brownies their flavor and soft texture. Using a mix keeps things quick and foolproof.
- Eggs – help bind everything together and give the brownies structure.
- Vegetable or Canola Oil – adds moisture and keeps the brownies soft and tender.
- Vanilla Extract – enhances the overall flavor and adds a subtle sweetness.
For the Strawberry Glaze
- Powdered Sugar – creates a smooth, sweet base for the glaze.
- Strawberry Preserves – brings in extra strawberry flavor and a slight fruity richness.
- Milk – thins out the glaze to the perfect spreadable consistency.
- Cream Cheese (optional) – adds a slight tang and makes the glaze a bit richer and creamier.
Easy Strawberry Brownies Recipe with Cake Mix
Notes
Ingredients
For the brownies:- 1 box strawberry cake mix with pudding in the mix
- 2 large eggs
- ⅓ cup vegetable or canola oil (80 ml)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5 ml)
- ¾ cup powdered sugar (90 g)
- 2 tablespoon strawberry preserves (40 g)
- 1 ½ tablespoons milk (22 ml)
- 1 tablespoon cream cheese (15 g – optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the pan and oven
Set your oven to 350°F. Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or line it with foil or parchment paper. Place it aside. - Make the batter
In a large bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is fully blended. You can use either a spoon or a mixer—both work equally well. - Bake
Press the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the center is just set. Allow the brownies to cool completely before adding the topping. - Prepare the glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, strawberry preserves, milk, and cream cheese (if using) until smooth. - Finish
Spread the glaze evenly over the cooled brownies.
- Because of the glaze, the brownies can stick together. Store them in a single layer in an airtight container whenever possible.
- If stacking is necessary, place parchment paper between layers, though some sticking may still occur.
- When glazed, keep them refrigerated due to the milk and preserves.
- Without the glaze, they can be stored at room temperature in a sealed container.
- Why are my brownies coming out more cakey than chewy?
This usually means the batter was overmixed or had a bit too much moisture. Keep it simple — mix just until combined and you’ll get that soft, dense, chewy texture we’re after. - How do I know when they’re perfectly baked?
Look for set edges and a center that’s just done. A toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter). That’s your sweet spot. - Can You Make These Strawberry Brownies Ahead of Time?
Yes — and they are actually better once they have fully cooled and set. Make them the night before, let the glaze firm up, and they are ready to serve the next day with zero effort. If you are making them for a summer gathering or potluck, this is the move. Store them covered in the fridge because of the milk and preserves in the glaze. - My glaze isn’t the right consistency — help!
Too thick? Add a splash of milk.
Too thin? Add a little more powdered sugar.
You’re just looking for something smooth and easy to spread. - Can I freeze these brownies?
Yes! Wrap them up well and freeze for up to a couple of months. Thaw at room temp and they’re good to go — just as soft and delicious.
How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Brownies
Because of the glaze, store these in a single layer in an airtight container in the fridge — they will keep well for up to 4 days. If you need to stack them, put a sheet of parchment paper between layers.
For longer storage, skip the glaze, wrap the brownies individually, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and add the glaze fresh before serving.
