These Strawberry Lemonade Cake Mix Bars are a burst of sunshine in every bite, combining the zesty tang of lemon with the sweet juiciness of strawberries. With just 10 minutes of prep and 30 minutes in the oven, you’ll have a dessert that’s as easy to make as it is irresistible. The soft, chewy texture pairs perfectly with the vibrant flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Each bar is a delightful balance of buttery richness and bright, fruity notes, topped with a luscious glaze that adds a touch of indulgence. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or treating yourself, these bars are a quick, flavorful escape that’s sure to brighten your day.
Ingredients
- For The Base:
- 15¼ ounce strawberry cake mix
- ½ cup butter, softened to room temperature
- 1 egg, slightly beaten
- For The Center/Frosting:
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 4 Tablespoons butter, softened to room temperature
- 1 Tablespoon lemon juice (add more if needed)
- 3-5 drops yellow food coloring
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 2 eggs
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray; set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cake mix, butter, and egg until well combined. Press mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, mix powdered sugar and butter. Add lemon juice (start with 1-2 Tablespoons) to achieve a thick frosting consistency.
- Add cream cheese and yellow food coloring to the mixture, mixing until smooth and creamy. Set aside 1 cup of this mixture for later use as frosting.
- Beat the remaining frosting mixture with 2 eggs until fluffy. Spread evenly over the cake mix base in the pan.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely. Once cooled, spread the reserved frosting mixture on top.
Sweet Topping Ideas to Elevate Your Bars
Take your Strawberry Lemonade Cake Mix Bars to the next level with creative toppings! Try a drizzle of lemon glaze made with 1 cup powdered sugar and 2-3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice. For a fruity twist, add a layer of sliced fresh strawberries or a sprinkle of freeze-dried strawberry pieces for extra texture. If you love a bit of crunch, a handful of crushed graham crackers or toasted coconut flakes works beautifully.
Perfect Pairings for Serving
These bars are a delightful treat on their own, but they shine even brighter with the right accompaniments. Serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a refreshing dessert. For a brunch-friendly option, pair them with a glass of sparkling lemonade or iced tea. They also make a great addition to a dessert platter alongside mini cheesecakes or fruit tarts.
How to Store and Keep Them Fresh
To keep your bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you’d like to freeze them, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving. For the best texture, let them come to room temperature before enjoying!
Quick Tips for Time-Saving Success
Short on time? Use a pre-made lemon frosting instead of making your own for the topping. You can also prepare the base and frosting mixture the night before, then assemble and bake the next day. For an even quicker cleanup, line your baking pan with parchment paper before adding the batter—this makes lifting the bars out a breeze!
Fun Variations to Try
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Swap the strawberry cake mix for a lemon or vanilla version for a different flavor profile. If you’re not a fan of cream cheese, try using Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. For a tropical vibe, replace the lemon juice with lime juice and add a touch of zest to the frosting. The possibilities are endless!
Strawberry Lemonade Cake Mix Bars Recipe
Ingredients
For The Base:
- 15¼ ounce strawberry cake mix
- ½ cup butter, softened to room temperature
- 1 egg, slightly beaten
For The Center/Frosting:
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 4 Tablespoons butter, softened to room temperature
- 1 Tablespoon lemon juice, (add more if needed)
- 3-5 drops yellow food coloring
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 2 eggs
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
- Spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray; set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cake mix, butter and egg until well combined, press in the bottom of prepared pan and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine powdered sugar and butter. Add enough lemon juice to form the consistency of thick frosting – about 1-2 Tablespoons.
- Mix in cream cheese and yellow food coloring until smooth and creamy.
- Set aside 1 cup of mixture to use later as frosting.
- Add eggs to the remaining frosting mixture and beat until fluffy.
- Spread on top of cake mix in the pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
- Let cool completely, then spread remaining frosting mixture on top.