Prepare the Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly coat an 8×8-inch baking pan with non-stick spray, then line it with parchment paper. Set the prepared pan aside.
Mix the Brownie Batter: In a large bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir with a spatula or mix on low speed using an electric mixer just until the ingredients are combined. Avoid overmixing; the finished batter will be very thick. Fill the Pan: Transfer the thick batter to the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly across the pan.
Bake the Brownies: Bake at 350°F for 18–24 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Cool Completely: Remove the brownies from the oven once baked and allow them to cool completely at room temperature before adding the glaze.
Prepare the Strawberry Glaze: In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, strawberry preserves, and softened cream cheese until the mixture is smooth.
Frost the Brownies: Spread the smooth strawberry glaze evenly over the completely cooled brownies.
Set the Glaze: Allow the frosting to set before cutting the brownies into squares.
Serve: Cut the brownies into 9 squares and serve as desired, especially alongside fresh strawberries and a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
