Strawberry Brownies

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that’s both quick and scrumptious, let me introduce you to my beloved Strawberry Brownies! These vibrant treats are not only easy to whip up, but they also bring a cheerful splash of color to any occasion. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, these brownies will surely impress everyone around the table. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll want to make them again and again!

The best part? You can enjoy the sweet, fruity flavor of strawberries without the fuss. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a batch of Strawberry Brownies ready to satisfy your sweet tooth in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just five minutes of prep time, these brownies come together in a flash!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves brownies! These Strawberry Brownies are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake them ahead of time for parties or picnics; they taste great even after a day or two!
• Versatile Flavor: The strawberry flavor is refreshing and perfect for any season—sweeten up your summer BBQ or brighten up winter gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients that make these Strawberry Brownies so special! You may already have most of these in your pantry.

For the Brownie Base

• 1 box strawberry cake mix with pudding in the mix (We used Pillsbury – but see post for more tips!)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/3 cup vegetable or canola oil (80 ml)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5 ml)

For the Frosting

• 3/4 cup powdered sugar (90g)
• 2 tablespoons strawberry preserves (40g – Bonne Maman strawberry preserves is the best!)
• 1 ½ tablespoons milk (22ml)
• 1 tablespoon cream cheese (15g – optional; see post for tips!)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to experiment with different flavors or add-ins to create your perfect brownie. Here are some ideas:

• Add Chocolate Chips: Stir in some chocolate chips for an extra indulgent treat!
• Use Different Preserves: Switch out the strawberry preserves for raspberry or blueberry for a twist on flavor.
• Top with Whipped Cream: Serve your brownies warm with a dollop of non-dairy whipped cream on top.
• Try Different Cake Mixes: Swap out strawberry cake mix for lemon or vanilla cake mix for new flavor profiles.

How to Make Strawberry Brownies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This step ensures that your brownies bake evenly and come out perfectly fluffy. While it heats up, spray an 8×8 pan with nonstick spray or line it with foil. I personally love using parchment paper in my glass baking dish—it makes cleanup super easy!

Step 2: Mix & Bake

In a large bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract. Use either a spoon or mixer—both work like magic here! Once mixed well, press the batter into your prepared pan evenly. Bake for 18-22 minutes until they’re just done; the edges should look set while the center remains slightly soft. Let them cool completely before moving on!

Enjoy creating this delightful dessert! I can’t wait for you to share it with friends and family.

Pro Tips for Making Strawberry Brownies

These Strawberry Brownies are simple, but a few tips can take them from good to great!

• Choose the right cake mix: Opt for a strawberry cake mix that includes pudding in the mix. This will ensure your brownies have a moist and rich texture, making each bite delightful.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Stir just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough brownies, so keep it gentle to preserve that soft and chewy texture.
• Use fresh ingredients: If you can, use fresh strawberries or high-quality preserves. Fresh ingredients enhance the flavor and give your brownies a homemade touch.
• Let them cool completely: Allowing your brownies to cool completely before cutting helps them set properly and makes for cleaner slices.
• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to add chocolate chips or nuts if you want to customize your brownies even further. Just make sure they’re compatible with your dietary preferences!

How to Serve Strawberry Brownies

Presenting your Strawberry Brownies beautifully can turn an everyday treat into something special. Here are some ideas for serving this delicious dessert.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top adds a touch of elegance and sweetness without overwhelming the flavors.
• Fresh strawberries: Top each brownie with sliced fresh strawberries for a burst of color and freshness that complements the strawberry flavor.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla dairy-free ice cream: The creamy texture pairs wonderfully with the chewy brownies, creating a delightful contrast in every bite.
• Whipped coconut cream: For a luscious, dairy-free topping, whipped coconut cream adds richness and a hint of tropical flavor that works well with strawberries.
• Fruit salad: A light fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits can balance the sweetness of the brownies while providing a refreshing palate cleanser.
• Coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea serves as a perfect accompaniment, enhancing the overall dessert experience while balancing flavors.

Enjoy making these Strawberry Brownies! They are perfect for any occasion—from family gatherings to casual get-togethers—guaranteeing smiles all around.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Strawberry Brownies are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can whip them up in advance and enjoy their delightful flavors throughout the week. Here’s how to keep them fresh:

Storing Leftovers

• Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate them in a sealed container for up to a week.

Freezing

• Cut the brownies into squares and allow them to cool completely.
• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just label with the date!

Reheating

• To enjoy a warm brownie, remove from the refrigerator or freezer and let sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes.
• Heat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about these delightful Strawberry Brownies.

Can I use a different cake mix for Strawberry Brownies?

Absolutely! While strawberry cake mix gives these brownies their signature flavor, you can experiment with other flavors like vanilla or chocolate for unique variations.

How do I make my Strawberry Brownies more fudgy?

If you prefer a fudgier texture, reduce the baking time by a couple of minutes. Keep an eye on them as they bake; they should still be slightly underdone when you take them out.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to my Strawberry Brownies?

Yes! Feel free to stir in some chopped nuts or chocolate chips before baking. This adds extra texture and flavor that complements the sweetness of the strawberries.

What are some serving suggestions for Strawberry Brownies?

These brownies pair beautifully with whipped cream, fresh strawberries, or a scoop of non-dairy ice cream for an extra special dessert!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Strawberry Brownies as much as I do! They’re easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting friends or simply indulging in a sweet treat at home. Happy baking, and may your kitchen always be filled with love and delicious aromas!