Ingredients:

  • 1 box (15.25 oz) strawberry cake mix
  • 1 cup water
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped (or frozen, thawed and drained)
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup shredded coconut (unsweetened or sweetened, as per preference)
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan with non-stick spray or butter.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes until well blended.
  3. Gently fold in the chopped strawberries into the cake batter, being careful not to overmix.
  4. In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. Set aside.
  5. Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the top of the batter. Pour the remaining cake batter over the top of the cream cheese layer.
  6. Sprinkle the shredded coconut evenly over the top of the cake batter. If using, sprinkle the chopped nuts and chocolate chips on top as well.
  7. Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center of the cake comes out clean.
  8. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 to 20 minutes. Cut into squares and serve warm or at room temperature.