Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe

Some desserts are just meant to steal the show, and these strawberry cheesecake brownies do exactly that. They’re a perfect mash-up of fudgy brownie texture, creamy cheesecake frosting, and a nostalgic strawberry shortcake crumble. If you’ve ever had those iconic strawberry shortcake ice cream bars, you already know the flavor we’re chasing here!

this RECIPE

The best part? This recipe is easy. We’re using a simple strawberry cake mix as the base, which means no fussing with measuring flour or sugar. It’s quick, vibrant, and full of flavor—exactly what you want when you need a show-stopping treat with minimal effort.

A sweet trip down memory lane

I still remember the first time I had a strawberry shortcake ice cream bar. I must have been around seven, standing in front of the neighborhood ice cream truck, clutching a few crumpled dollar bills. When I took that first bite, the crunchy, buttery strawberry crumble coating gave way to the smooth vanilla ice cream underneath—it was love at first taste.

Years later, I wanted to recreate that magic in a homemade dessert, but with a fun twist. That’s how these strawberry cheesecake brownies were born. I wanted something soft and chewy, but still with that same nostalgic flavor. The combination of strawberry cake mix, cream cheese frosting, and the golden Oreo-strawberry crumble turned out to be the perfect balance of flavors and textures. And now? Every time I make them, I get a little taste of childhood all over again.

What makes these brownies special?

Unlike traditional brownies, these are bursting with strawberry flavor, thanks to the cake mix and a little extra strawberry gelatin. The texture is rich and dense, almost like a blondie but with a berry twist. The cream cheese frosting adds a silky, tangy contrast, and that crunchy strawberry shortcake crumble on top? Absolute perfection.

Let’s talk ingredients

Brownie base

• Strawberry cake mix – This keeps things simple while giving the brownies a vibrant color and bold strawberry taste. If you don’t have a box of cake mix, you can use a homemade mix with flour, sugar, and freeze-dried strawberries.
• Butter – Melted butter makes the brownies extra rich and fudgy. I prefer salted butter for a little contrast against the sweetness.
• Eggs – They bind everything together and give the brownies structure. Room-temperature eggs mix in more evenly, so if you can, let them sit out for a bit before baking.
• Strawberry gelatin – This enhances the strawberry flavor and intensifies the color. If you’re out, you can skip it, but it adds a little extra something.

Cream cheese frosting

• Cream cheese – Softened cream cheese makes the frosting ultra creamy and tangy, balancing out the sweetness.
• Butter – Adds richness and helps the frosting whip up fluffy.
• Vanilla extract – A little vanilla rounds out the flavors.
• Powdered sugar – This sweetens and thickens the frosting.
• Heavy cream – Just a touch makes the frosting smooth and luscious.

Strawberry shortcake crumble

• Golden Oreos – These give the crumble a buttery, cookie-like crunch. If you want a nutty twist, try swapping half the Oreos for crushed almonds.
• Butter – Helps the crumble stick together and adds richness.
• Strawberry gelatin – This gives the crumble that signature pink color and extra berry flavor.

Must-have kitchen tools

• 8×8 baking dish – Glass works best for even baking. If you use metal, reduce the bake time slightly.
• Mixing bowls – You’ll need a couple, one for the brownie batter and another for the frosting.
• Hand or stand mixer – Makes whipping the frosting a breeze. If mixing by hand, be prepared for an arm workout.
• Food processor – Speeds up the crumble-making process. No processor? Just crush the Oreos in a zip-top bag with a rolling pin.
• Rubber spatula – Great for spreading the thick batter and frosting.

Step-by-step: How to make them

Step 1: Prepare the brownie batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line your baking dish with parchment paper and spray it with non-stick spray—trust me, this will make your life easier later.

In a mixing bowl, stir together the melted butter, eggs, cake mix, and strawberry gelatin. The batter will be thick, almost like cookie dough. Spread it into the prepared dish. A rubber spatula helps, or you can lightly grease your hands and press it in.

Step 2: Bake and cool

Pop the brownies in the oven for about 25 minutes. They should be slightly firm but still have a little give when touched. Let them cool completely before frosting—warm brownies will melt the frosting into a mess.

Step 3: Make the frosting

While the brownies cool, beat together the cream cheese, butter, and vanilla until smooth. Add the powdered sugar and 1 tablespoon of heavy cream, then beat until fluffy. If the frosting seems too thick, add the second tablespoon of cream.

Step 4: Make the crumble

Pulse the Golden Oreos in a food processor until they break into small crumbs, but don’t turn them into dust! Sprinkle in the remaining strawberry gelatin, drizzle with melted butter, and pulse a couple more times. The crumbs should be slightly moist and clumpy.

Step 5: Assemble

Spread the cream cheese frosting over the cooled brownies, then sprinkle the crumble on top. Press it gently so it sticks.

Fun variations to try

• Chocolate twist – Add white chocolate chips to the brownie batter for extra sweetness.
• Lemon berry – Swap the strawberry gelatin for lemon gelatin for a bright, citrusy contrast.
• Gluten-free – Use a gluten-free cake mix and gluten-free cookies for the crumble.
• No-bake version – Skip the brownies and spread the frosting over graham crackers, then top with crumble for an easy shortcut treat.

Serving and presentation ideas

For a fancy touch, drizzle melted white chocolate over the top. If serving at a party, cut into small squares and arrange on a platter with fresh strawberries. A scoop of vanilla ice cream makes them even more decadent.

What to drink with them?

A glass of cold milk is the classic pairing, but if you want something special, try a strawberry milkshake or even a bubbly rosé. If coffee’s your thing, a vanilla latte complements the creamy frosting beautifully.

Storing and reheating tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. They taste even better chilled! If you prefer them soft, let them sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before eating. Freezing? Wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month.

FAQs

Can I use a different cake mix?
Yes! Vanilla or lemon cake mix both work well for a different twist.

Do I have to use a food processor for the crumble?
Nope! A zip-top bag and rolling pin work just fine.

Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely. They actually taste better the next day as the flavors meld together.

What if my frosting is too runny?
Add more powdered sugar, a tablespoon at a time, until it thickens up.

Can I use unsalted butter?
Yes, just add a pinch of salt to balance the flavors.

Now go grab that cake mix and get baking—you’re going to love these strawberry cheesecake brownies!

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