Southern Strawberry Cream Cheese Butter Cake is a rich, indulgent dessert inspired by classic Southern baking traditions. It features a soft, buttery cake base topped with a luscious cream cheese layer and sweet strawberry flavor throughout. Think of it as a fruity twist on a gooey butter cake—dense, creamy, and absolutely irresistible.
Why You’ll Love This Cake
- Rich, buttery texture with a creamy cheesecake-like topping
- Sweet strawberry flavor in every bite
- Easy to make with simple ingredients
- Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or family desserts
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Bake Time: 40–45 minutes
- Cooling Time: 1–2 hours
- Total Time: about 2 hours
Ingredients
Cake Base:
- 1 box vanilla or yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1 large egg
Cream Cheese Layer:
- 450 g cream cheese, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup strawberry puree or chopped strawberries
How to Make Southern Strawberry Cream Cheese Butter Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Mix cake mix, melted butter, and egg
- Press into a greased baking dish to form the crust
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Layer
In a bowl:
- Beat cream cheese until smooth
- Add eggs and vanilla
- Mix in melted butter and powdered sugar
- Fold in strawberry puree or chopped strawberries
Step 3: Assemble
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cake base
- Spread evenly
Step 4: Bake
- Bake for 40–45 minutes
- Center should be slightly gooey (not fully firm)
Step 5: Cool
- Let cool completely before slicing
- The texture will set as it cools
Step 6: Serve
- Dust with powdered sugar if desired
- Cut into squares and serve
Tips for Best Results
- Do not overbake—the center should stay soft and gooey
- Use room temperature cream cheese for a smooth layer
- Fresh strawberries give the best flavor
- Let it cool fully for clean slices
Variations
- Add white chocolate chips
- Swirl strawberry jam on top
- Use a chocolate cake mix for a twist
- Add a cream cheese glaze
Storage
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
- Serve slightly chilled or at room temperature
- Freeze for up to 1 month
Calories (Approximate)
- Per square (based on 12): 350–450 calories
Final Thoughts
Southern Strawberry Cream Cheese Butter Cake is a decadent dessert that combines buttery richness with creamy texture and fruity sweetness. It’s simple to make but tastes like a bakery-quality treat.