Strawberry Brownies

These Strawberry Brownies are a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of strawberries with the rich, fudgy texture of brownies. Perfect for parties, picnics, or an afternoon snack, they are quick to prepare and sure to impress. With a few simple ingredients starting from a strawberry cake mix, you can create a dessert that not only looks beautiful but tastes amazing too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, these brownies come together in no time!
• Deliciously Unique Flavor: The strawberry cake mix gives these brownies a fruity twist that sets them apart from traditional brownies.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or a cozy family dinner, these brownies fit right in.
• Fun for Kids: This recipe is perfect for little hands to help with; mixing and pressing the batter is fun!
• No Special Equipment Needed: You don’t need fancy tools; just basic kitchen items will do!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making these Strawberry Brownies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A good-sized bowl ensures you have enough space to mix without spills.
• Baking pan: Using an 8×8 pan helps achieve the right thickness for your brownies, ensuring they bake evenly.

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 the 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. If you prefer, use parchment paper for easy removal later.

Step 2: Mix & Bake

In a large bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract. You can use either a spoon or mixer—both methods yield great results! Once mixed thoroughly, press the batter into your prepared pan.

Bake for 18-22 minutes until just done. Allow them to cool completely before cutting into squares. Enjoy these delightful Strawberry Brownies as your new go-to dessert!

How to Serve Strawberry Brownies

These delightful Strawberry Brownies can be enjoyed in various ways. Their sweet, fruity flavor pairs well with many accompaniments and presentations that enhance their appeal.

A la Mode

• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a creamy contrast that melts into the brownies.

With Fresh Fruit

• Add slices of fresh strawberries or raspberries on the side to boost the fruity flavor and add a refreshing touch.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• Pour some chocolate sauce over your brownies for an indulgent treat that balances the sweetness of the strawberries.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Lighten up your dessert by adding a dollop of whipped cream, making it even more enjoyable and visually appealing.

As Brownie Sundaes

• Create a fun dessert by layering brownie pieces, ice cream, and toppings like nuts or syrups in a glass.

With Coffee or Tea

• Pair your strawberry brownies with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack or dessert option.

How to Perfect Strawberry Brownies

To achieve the best results with your Strawberry Brownies, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure you create a delicious and satisfying treat every time.

• Use Quality Cake Mix: Choose a high-quality strawberry cake mix for richer flavor and better texture.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on baking time; remove them when they are just set to avoid dryness.
• Cool Completely: Allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting them to maintain their shape and texture.
• Experiment with Toppings: Try adding different toppings like nuts or sprinkles for added crunch and visual appeal.
• Store Properly: Keep leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for freshness up to three days.
• Add More Flavor: Incorporate lemon zest or almond extract along with vanilla for an extra layer of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Brownies

Enhance your dessert experience by serving these side dishes alongside your Strawberry Brownies. Each option complements their sweetness beautifully.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic pairing that adds creaminess and balances the strawberry flavor perfectly.
2. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and lightens up the dessert table.
3. Chocolate Mousse: This rich dessert provides a luxurious contrast to the bright flavors of strawberry brownies.
4. Cheesecake Bites: Small cheesecake portions offer a creamy counterpart that pairs well with the fruitiness of the brownies.
5. Panna Cotta: A smooth, creamy Italian dessert that contrasts nicely with the chewy brownie texture.
6. Coffee Cake: A slice of coffee cake provides warmth and spice, making it great for brunch gatherings.
7. Milkshakes: Blend strawberries with milk and ice cream for a refreshing drink that echoes the brownie’s flavors.
8. Nutty Granola Bars: These add crunch and can be served as a light snack alongside your brownie treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Strawberry Brownies, it’s easy to overlook some details. Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your dessert turns out perfectly every time.

• Boldly skip the cooling step: Rushing to cut the brownies while they are still warm can lead to messy pieces. Always let them cool completely before slicing.
• Boldly ignore baking times: Overbaking can dry out your brownies. Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes of baking and perform the toothpick test.
• Boldly assume all cake mixes are the same: Different brands of strawberry cake mix can yield different results. Stick with a trusted brand like Pillsbury for consistent outcomes.
• Boldly forget to prepare your pan: Not greasing or lining your baking dish can result in brownies that stick. Always use nonstick spray or parchment paper for easy removal.
• Boldly skip the preserves: Omitting strawberry preserves will reduce flavor and moisture. Incorporate this ingredient for a richer taste and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Strawberry Brownies

• Wrap brownies tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Strawberry Brownies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm the brownies for about 5-10 minutes for best results.
• Microwave: Heat individual servings on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place a brownie in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Strawberry Brownies.

Can I use different flavors of cake mix for brownies?

Yes! You can experiment with other flavors like vanilla or chocolate, but keep an eye on the baking time as it may vary.

How do I make my Strawberry Brownies more fudgy?

To achieve a fudgier texture, try reducing the amount of oil slightly or adding an extra egg yolk.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Nuts or mini chocolate chips can be folded into the batter before baking for added flavor and texture.

What should I serve with Strawberry Brownies?

These brownies pair well with whipped cream, ice cream, or fresh strawberries on top for a delightful dessert experience.

Final Thoughts

These Strawberry Brownies are not only quick and easy to make but also deliciously versatile. You can customize them with various mix-ins or toppings. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or treating yourself, these brownies are sure to impress!