Strawberry Brownies

These Strawberry Brownies are a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of strawberries with the fudgy goodness of brownies. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, birthday party, or just a sweet craving at home, these brownies are easy to make and sure to impress. With their vibrant color and rich flavor, they stand out as a fun and unique dessert option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up these delicious brownies in no time.
• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of strawberry cake mix and strawberry preserves creates a moist and flavorful brownie that everyone will love.
• Versatile Dessert: Great for parties, potlucks, or simply as an after-dinner treat, these brownies fit perfectly into any dessert lineup.
• Easy Cleanup: Using one bowl for mixing means less mess and easier cleanup – who doesn’t appreciate that?
• Colorful Presentation: The beautiful pink hue makes these brownies visually appealing, making them a standout on any dessert table.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience seamless, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare your Strawberry Brownies.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking pan (8×8 inches)
• Nonstick spray or foil
• Spoon or mixer

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl is essential for combining the ingredients thoroughly without spills.
• Baking pan: The right size ensures even baking; an 8×8 inch pan is perfect for this recipe.
• Nonstick spray or foil: Prevents sticking, ensuring your brownies come out easily without damage.

Ingredients

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

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 Topping

• 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!)

How to Make Strawberry Brownies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Prepare an 8×8 inch baking pan by spraying it with nonstick spray or lining it with foil. Set it aside while you prepare the batter.

Step 2: Mix & Bake

In a large mixing bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract. You can use either a spoon or an electric mixer to blend until smooth. Once mixed thoroughly:
1. Press the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes or until just set.
3. Let cool completely before cutting into squares.

Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Brownies!

How to Serve Strawberry Brownies

Strawberry Brownies are a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or dress it up for a special occasion, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

Enjoy with Fresh Strawberries

• Serve each brownie with a few fresh strawberries on the side for a burst of flavor and freshness.

Pair with Whipped Cream

• Top your brownies with a dollop of whipped cream for added creaminess and sweetness. This makes for a perfect contrast against the strawberry flavor.

Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce

• Add a drizzle of chocolate sauce over the brownies for a rich, indulgent touch. It enhances the sweetness and adds visual appeal.

Serve à la Mode

• Place a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream on top of each brownie. The cold ice cream melts slightly, creating a delicious combination.

Create a Brownie Sundae

• Layer brownie pieces, whipped cream, fresh strawberries, and nuts in a glass for an impressive dessert. It’s sure to impress guests!

Garnish with Mint Leaves

• Add fresh mint leaves on top as a garnish. The mint adds color and a refreshing taste that complements the strawberries beautifully.

How to Perfect Strawberry Brownies

Making perfect Strawberry Brownies is easy with some helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your brownies turn out delicious every time.

• Use Quality Cake Mix: Choose a high-quality strawberry cake mix that contains pudding for extra moistness and flavor.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your brownies while baking. They should be soft in the center; overbaking can lead to dry brownies.
• Let Cool Completely: Allow your brownies to cool fully in the pan before cutting. This helps them set better and makes slicing easier.
• Experiment with Toppings: Try different toppings like crushed nuts or coconut flakes for added texture and flavor variations.
• Add Extra Flavor: Consider mixing in some chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the batter for additional taste dimensions.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Brownies

While Strawberry Brownies are delicious on their own, pairing them with the right side dishes can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds creaminess and balance to the sweetness of the brownies.
2. Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing side that complements the rich flavors of the brownies without overwhelming them.
3. Chocolate Mousse: Rich and airy, chocolate mousse pairs beautifully with strawberry flavors, making each bite decadent.
4. Yogurt Parfait: Layers of yogurt, granola, and berries create a wholesome side that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
5. Cheesecake Bites: Small bites of cheesecake provide a creamy contrast to the dense texture of the brownies.
6. Chia Seed Pudding: A healthy option that adds texture and can be flavored with vanilla or coconut to complement the strawberry notes.
7. Coffee or Espresso: A warm beverage that balances out sweetness while enhancing flavors—perfect for an after-dinner treat.
8. Lemon Sorbet: The bright citrus flavor cuts through richness, offering a refreshing finish after indulging in sweet brownies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Strawberry Brownies, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Using the wrong baking pan: Always use an 8×8-inch pan for even cooking. If you use a larger pan, the brownies may turn out dry.
• Not letting them cool completely: Allow your brownies to cool fully in the pan before cutting. Otherwise, they may fall apart.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough brownies instead of soft ones.
• Skipping the parchment paper: Lining your baking dish with parchment helps prevent sticking and makes for easy removal.
• Ignoring ingredient temperatures: Ensure eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Keep layers of brownies separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Strawberry Brownies

• Wrap brownies tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing quality.

Reheating Strawberry Brownies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 5-10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one brownie at a time on medium power for about 15-20 seconds.
• 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 that might help you achieve the best results.

Can I use other cake mixes for strawberry brownies?

You can definitely experiment with different flavored cake mixes like vanilla or chocolate!

How do I achieve a fudgier texture in my strawberry brownies?

To make fudgier Strawberry Brownies, reduce the amount of oil slightly or add an extra tablespoon of strawberry preserves.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?

Yes! Feel free to add chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or even fresh strawberries into the batter for added flavor and texture.

What should I serve with strawberry brownies?

Strawberry brownies pair wonderfully with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!

Final Thoughts

These Strawberry Brownies are not only quick and simple but also incredibly delicious. With their vibrant color and sweet flavor, they make a delightful dessert for any occasion. You can easily customize them by adding mix-ins or adjusting sweetness levels. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy these delightful treats!