Strawberry Brownies

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that’s quick and easy to whip up, you’ve come to the right place! These Strawberry Brownies are not only bursting with flavor but also super simple to make. Whenever I need a sweet treat in a pinch or want to impress friends at a gathering, this recipe is my go-to. The vibrant pink color and rich strawberry flavor make these brownies a hit with everyone, from kids to adults. Plus, they’re perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions alike!

Whether you’re hosting a family game night or just want something sweet after dinner, these Strawberry Brownies will have everyone smiling. Trust me; once you try them, they’ll become a beloved staple in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have delicious brownies ready in no time.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves the sweet taste of strawberries, making these perfect for all ages.
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake in advance and enjoy them throughout the week or serve at gatherings.
• Fun and colorful: The vibrant pink hue makes these brownies visually appealing and adds excitement to any dessert table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients! You probably have most of these already in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need to create these scrumptious Strawberry Brownies:

• 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)
• 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!)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative and customize your Strawberry Brownies with these fun variations:

• Add chocolate chips: Sprinkle some semi-sweet or white chocolate chips into the batter for extra sweetness.
• Incorporate nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch to your brownies.
• Use different fruit preserves: Try raspberry or blueberry preserves instead of strawberry for a unique twist.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute the cake mix with gluten-free options available at your local store.

How to Make Strawberry Brownies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F. This ensures that your Strawberry Brownies bake evenly. While that’s heating up, spray an 8×8 pan with nonstick spray or line it with foil for easy removal later on.

Step 2: Mix & Bake

In a large bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract. Whether you grab a spoon or use an electric mixer, it really doesn’t make much difference—just mix until everything is well blended! Next, press this lovely batter into your prepared pan. Bake for about 18 to 22 minutes until they’re just done—check with a toothpick if you’re unsure! Once baked, let them cool completely before slicing into squares. Enjoy every bite of these delightful Strawberry Brownies!

Pro Tips for Making Strawberry Brownies

Making Strawberry Brownies is an absolute breeze, and with a few expert tips, you can take them to the next level!

• Use Quality Cake Mix: Opt for a strawberry cake mix that contains pudding in the mix. This ensures a moist and flavorful brownie that stands out from the rest.

• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your brownies while they’re in the oven. Overbaking can result in a dry texture. They should be just set in the middle when you take them out.

• Let Them Cool Completely: Allow your brownies to cool completely before cutting them into squares. This helps them firm up and makes for cleaner cuts.

• Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to mix in some white chocolate chips or chopped strawberries for added texture and flavor. It’s all about making these brownies your own!

• Store Properly: To keep your brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to 3 days, but I bet they won’t last that long!

How to Serve Strawberry Brownies

These delightful Strawberry Brownies can be served in various ways that will impress your family and friends. Here are some ideas to present this sweet treat beautifully.

Garnishes

• Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness to your brownies.

• Fresh Strawberries: Place a few fresh strawberries on top or alongside each brownie for a pop of color and flavor that complements the dessert perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with strawberry brownies, creating a delightful contrast between warm and cold.

• Whipped Coconut Cream: For a dairy-free option, serve with whipped coconut cream. Its lightness enhances the fruity notes of the brownies.

• Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad featuring seasonal berries can balance out the sweetness of the brownies while adding another layer of flavor.

• Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle some chocolate sauce over the top for those who crave extra indulgence; it’s a match made in dessert heaven!

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Strawberry Brownies will not only taste fantastic but look amazing too! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Strawberry Brownies are perfect for meal prep! You can whip them up in advance and store them for later, making them a delightful treat whenever you need a sweet pick-me-up.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the brownies to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate them; they will last about a week.

Freezing

• Cut the brownies into squares before freezing for easy serving.
• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label the bag with the date!

Reheating

• To enjoy your brownies warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the brownies on a baking sheet and cover with foil to prevent drying out.
• Heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through; you can also microwave individual pieces for about 15-20 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about these delicious Strawberry Brownies:

Can I use a different cake mix for these Strawberry Brownies?

Absolutely! While strawberry cake mix gives these brownies their signature flavor, feel free to experiment with other flavors like vanilla or chocolate.

How do I ensure my Strawberry Brownies are perfectly baked?

To check if your brownies are done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter, they’re ready!

Can I make Strawberry Brownies ahead of time?

Yes, these brownies can be made ahead of time! Just follow the storage instructions above to keep them fresh for when you’re ready to enjoy.

What makes these Strawberry Brownies special?

The combination of strawberry cake mix and simple ingredients creates a unique dessert that’s quick and easy to make while delivering a delightful burst of strawberry flavor.

Are Strawberry Brownies suitable for parties?

Definitely! These vibrant treats are sure to impress guests at any gathering. They are easy to cut into small squares and serve!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am about making these delightful Strawberry Brownies! Their simplicity combined with that lovely strawberry flavor makes them truly special. Whether it’s for a gathering or just because you deserve a little sweetness in your day, I’m sure you’ll love every bite. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share this recipe with friends who might enjoy it too!