Bake uncovered for 35-38 minutes or until cake layer is baked through (a toothpick comes out clean).
Cut into equal-sized pieces, top each piece with dollop of whipped topping (and optional strawberry slice) then serve.
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Notes
You can substitute the cake mix, soda, or canned pie fruit for other varieties.
You can choose not to mix the soda and cake mix together before baking. Just pour cake mix over pie filling layer in baking dish, then pour soda over cake mix. This may cause slight cracking in the baking process.
For an even, golden topping, drizzle melted butter or evenly place thin slices of butter over the dry cake mix—don’t stir!
Resist the urge to stir the ingredients together. Layering is key to getting that crisp, buttery topping and gooey fruit base.
Use a 9x13-inch baking dish for even cooking. Greasing the dish lightly helps with cleanup and prevents sticking.
To store, cover and place in refrigerator for up to 4 or 5 days.