Strawberry Brownies

These Strawberry Brownies are a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of strawberries with the rich texture of brownies. Perfect for any occasion, these treats are quick to whip up and are sure to impress friends and family. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a deliciously moist and flavorful dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 5 minutes of prep time, you can have these brownies ready to bake in no time.
• Easy Ingredients: Made with a strawberry cake mix and common pantry staples, they require minimal effort for maximum flavor.
• Deliciously Unique: The strawberry flavor sets these brownies apart from traditional recipes, offering a fun twist on a classic treat.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them warm with ice cream or let them cool for tasty snacks throughout the week.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party, picnic, or casual get-together, these brownies fit right in.

Tools and Preparation

To create the best Strawberry Brownies, having the right tools is essential. These tools will help you mix and bake efficiently while ensuring great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking pan (8×8)
• Nonstick spray or foil
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spoon or mixer

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: Allows for easy combining of ingredients without spills.
• Baking pan (8×8): The perfect size for even baking, ensuring your brownies cook thoroughly.
• Nonstick spray or foil: Prevents sticking, making it easier to remove your brownies from the pan.

Ingredients

These Strawberry Brownies start with a strawberry cake mix and just a few simple ingredients for the quickest dessert ever.

For the 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 Topping

• 3/4 cup powdered sugar (90g)
• 2 tablespoon 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!))

How to Make Strawberry Brownies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Spray an 8×8 pan with nonstick spray or line it with foil. Set aside. (I used a glass baking dish lined with parchment paper.)

Step 2: Mix & Bake

In a large bowl, mix together the strawberry cake mix, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract until well combined. You can use either a spoon or mixer—both methods yield great results. Press this mixture evenly into your prepared pan.

1. Bake for 18-22 minutes until just set.
2. Check with a toothpick; it should come out clean when done.
3. Allow to cool completely before cutting into squares.

Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Brownies!

How to Serve Strawberry Brownies

Strawberry Brownies are a delightful treat that can be served in various ways. Whether for a party or a cozy dessert at home, these brownies can be dressed up or down to suit any occasion.

A La Mode

• Serve warm Strawberry Brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The creaminess of the ice cream perfectly complements the fruity flavors.

With Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream on each brownie. This light topping enhances the sweetness and adds a fluffy texture.

Garnished with Fresh Strawberries

• Top each brownie with sliced fresh strawberries for added freshness and color. This also intensifies the strawberry flavor in every bite.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• For chocolate lovers, drizzle warm chocolate sauce over the brownies. This creates a delicious contrast between strawberry and chocolate.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Cut brownies into bite-sized pieces and arrange them on a dessert platter alongside other treats like cookies or mini cheesecakes for an appealing presentation.

How to Perfect Strawberry Brownies

To achieve the best results with your Strawberry Brownies, follow these helpful tips that ensure they turn out moist and flavorful every time.

• Use Quality Cake Mix: Select a well-reviewed strawberry cake mix for superior flavor. Brands like Pillsbury work wonderfully.

• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your brownies as they bake. They should be soft in the center; overbaking will lead to dry brownies.

• Let Them Cool Completely: Allow your brownies to cool before cutting them. This helps set the texture and makes slicing easier.

• Experiment with Toppings: Try different toppings like nuts, coconut, or even crushed cookies for added texture and flavor variation.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Brownies

Pairing side dishes with Strawberry Brownies can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some wonderful options to consider.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds creaminess and balances the sweetness of the brownies.
2. Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright and refreshing, this side brings out the fruity notes in the brownies while adding a healthy touch.
3. Chocolate Mousse: Rich and airy, chocolate mousse provides a decadent contrast to the strawberry flavor.
4. Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites add variety and richness that complements the fruity brownies well.
5. Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup of coffee or espresso enhances dessert flavors and balances sweetness.
6. Milkshake: A thick milkshake pairs wonderfully with brownies, offering indulgence in every sip.
7. Fruit Sorbet: Light and refreshing, fruit sorbet cleanses the palate after enjoying rich desserts like brownies.
8. Panna Cotta: This creamy Italian dessert offers a lovely counterpoint to strawberry brownies, adding elegance to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Strawberry Brownies can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can affect your final result. Here are some mistakes to avoid.

• Using the wrong cake mix: Not all cake mixes are the same. Ensure you use a strawberry cake mix with pudding for the best texture and flavor.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is a science. Use precise measurements to ensure your brownies turn out perfectly every time.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to tough brownies. Stir until just combined for a soft, chewy texture.
• Skipping cooling time: Allowing brownies to cool fully helps set their texture. Cutting them too early may result in a gooey mess.
• Neglecting to test for doneness: Every oven is different. Use a toothpick to check if they’re done; it should come out with a few moist crumbs.
• Forgetting optional toppings: Enhance your brownies with cream cheese or chocolate drizzle. Don’t miss out on these delicious additions!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Strawberry Brownies

• Wrap brownies tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Strawberry Brownies

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm brownies for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual servings on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place them in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making the perfect Strawberry Brownies, we’ve got you covered!

Can I use fresh strawberries in Strawberry Brownies?

You can use fresh strawberries, but they may alter the moisture content. Adding them in moderation is key.

How do I make gluten-free Strawberry Brownies?

To make these brownies gluten-free, substitute the cake mix with a gluten-free version while ensuring all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

What can I add to enhance my Strawberry Brownies?

Consider adding nuts, chocolate chips, or even a swirl of cream cheese for extra flavor and texture.

How do I store leftover Strawberry Brownies?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze for longer shelf life.

Final Thoughts

These delightful Strawberry Brownies offer a quick and easy dessert option that’s perfect for any occasion. With their vibrant color and sweet flavor, they are sure to impress friends and family alike. You can customize them by adding various toppings or mix-ins, making each batch uniquely yours. Try this recipe today!