If you dream of a dessert that’s equal parts playful, pretty, and irresistibly decadent, Gooey Strawberry Cake Mix Brownies will steal your heart. Plush and chewy with an almost fudge-like center, these pink beauties come together in just 25 minutes—and you won’t believe the magic a boxed cake mix can work. Expect bold strawberry flavor, a striking pastel hue, and a touch of white chocolate (if you dare) in every indulgent bite. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, a picnic, or just because, this recipe will quickly become your go-to treat for sharing smiles all around.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every great dessert begins with a handful of thoughtfully chosen ingredients, and Gooey Strawberry Cake Mix Brownies are no exception. Each component plays a unique role in building flavor, color, and that signature chewy texture that makes these brownies so memorable.
- Strawberry cake mix (1 box, 15.25 ounces): The secret shortcut that creates bold berry flavor and a perfect, pink hue with zero fuss.
- Large eggs (2): Help bind everything together and add richness for an extra moist crumb.
- Vegetable oil (1/3 cup): Delivers a luscious, dense texture and keeps the brownies gooey even after they cool.
- White chocolate chips (1/2 cup, optional): For creamy bursts of sweetness that balance the berry notes (totally delicious, but you can skip if you prefer).
- Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon, optional): Adds delicate depth and a soft bakery-like finish to every bite.
- Pinch of salt: Just a touch brightens the flavors and keeps the brownies from tasting too sweet.
How to Make Gooey Strawberry Cake Mix Brownies
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for effortless removal and easy cleanup. Trust me—nothing ruins gooey brownies faster than sticking to the pan!
Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, two large eggs, and the vegetable oil. Stir these ingredients together with a sturdy spoon or spatula. You’re looking for a thick, sticky batter that’s pretty satisfying to mix! If you’re using vanilla extract and white chocolate chips, fold them in gently at this stage so every piece gets a little extra love.
Step 3: Spread and Smooth
Scoop the thick batter into your prepared pan. Use a spatula (or clean hands!) to nudge it into the corners and create an even layer. It’ll be sticky and a little stubborn—just embrace it! The more evenly you spread it, the more perfectly your brownies will bake.
Step 4: Bake to Gooey Perfection
Bake for 18 to 22 minutes. The edges will look set and maybe even a little golden, but the center should still appear soft and a bit underdone. This is exactly what you want for that signature gooey bite—don’t give in to the temptation to overbake!
Step 5: Cool and Slice
Let the brownies cool completely in the pan—this step is vital for clean slices and maximum fudginess. Once cool, use the parchment sling (if you lined your pan) to lift the brownies out before cutting. For the ultimate gooey experience, serve them slightly warm by popping a square in the microwave for just a few seconds.
How to Serve Gooey Strawberry Cake Mix Brownies
Garnishes
Dress these up with a simple dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of melted white chocolate, or even a quick swirl of cream cheese glaze for an extra layer of indulgence. Fresh strawberry slices or a few sprigs of mint add color and a little flash if you’re aiming to impress at your next gathering!
Side Dishes
Pairing Gooey Strawberry Cake Mix Brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream is a no-brainer for warm weather desserts. They also shine alongside fresh berries or a cloud of lightly whipped cream—the tangy lightness is a perfect contrast to their rich texture.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the brownies into bite-sized cubes for a festive party tray, layer them in parfait glasses with whipped cream and berries for a show-stopping trifle, or use heart-shaped cookie cutters for sweet pink treats perfect for Valentine’s Day, birthdays, or just because!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Gooey Strawberry Cake Mix Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay irresistibly chewy and fresh for up to four days—if they last that long!
Freezing
These brownies freeze beautifully. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for up to two months; perfect for stashing a pink pick-me-up for future cravings.
Reheating
For gooey magic all over again, warm individual brownies in the microwave for 10–15 seconds. The white chocolate will melt just a bit and the texture will turn fudgy and fresh, as if they just came out of the oven.
FAQs
Do I have to use white chocolate chips?
Nope! White chocolate chips are optional. They add a creamy, indulgent bite, but these brownies are packed with flavor even without them. Try milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or leave them out entirely to let the strawberry shine.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Absolutely! Simply double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. The texture and bake time should be pretty similar, but keep an eye on the oven and test for doneness at the 18-minute mark—you might need up to 25 minutes for a larger batch.
Are Gooey Strawberry Cake Mix Brownies gluten-free?
Most boxed strawberry cake mixes are made with wheat flour, so the standard recipe isn’t gluten-free. If you need to cater to gluten-sensitivity, look for a certified gluten-free strawberry cake mix and use it with the same method.
Why do you recommend not overbaking?
The secret to Gooey Strawberry Cake Mix Brownies is that tender, melt-in-your-mouth center. Baking just until the edges set ensures they remain soft, chewy, and never dry—exactly how a brownie should be!
What’s the best way to cut these brownies?
For clean, tidy slices, let the brownies cool completely. Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts. If they’re still a little sticky, a quick spritz of nonstick spray on your blade works wonders.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a recipe that feels joyful and a tiny bit nostalgic, you simply need to make these Gooey Strawberry Cake Mix Brownies. They’re quick, fun, and bound to become a staple for all kinds of celebrations. Give them a try, and don’t be surprised when you find yourself baking batch after batch for friends and family!
Print
Gooey Strawberry Cake Mix Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 9 brownies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delightful fusion of a cake mix and traditional brownies with these Gooey Strawberry Cake Mix Brownies. Bursting with strawberry flavor, these moist and gooey treats are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Brownies:
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) strawberry cake mix
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and prepare the pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Mix the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, eggs, and vegetable oil. Stir until a thick, sticky batter forms. Fold in the white chocolate chips and vanilla extract if desired.
- Bake: Spread the batter into the pan and bake for 18–22 minutes until the edges are set but the center is slightly soft. Do not overbake.
- Cool and serve: Let the brownies cool in the pan before cutting into squares. For extra gooeyness, serve warm.
Notes
- For richer flavor, drizzle melted white chocolate or cream cheese glaze on top.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
