If you’re looking to delight your taste buds with a unique twist on a classic treat, this Strawberry Brownies Recipe is going to become your new favorite. Imagine rich, fudgy brownie texture infused with the natural sweetness and vibrant flavor of strawberries — it’s a match made in dessert heaven. These brownies are surprisingly simple to make yet impressively delicious, combining the moistness of a strawberry cake mix with a luscious creamy frosting that will leave you craving just one more square. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a cozy night in, this Strawberry Brownies Recipe brings that perfect balance of fruity freshness and chocolaty indulgence to your dessert table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Strawberry Brownies Recipe lies in its simple, accessible ingredients that each play an essential role in building its delightful flavor and texture. From the foundation of strawberry cake mix to the creamy frosting components, every item is key to bringing this dessert to life.
- 1 box of strawberry cake mix: Preferably Pillsbury for the best texture, this mix is the base that imparts vibrant strawberry flavor and moistness.
- 2 large eggs: These eggs add necessary structure and chewiness, helping the brownies hold together beautifully.
- â…“ cup vegetable oil: This keeps the brownies moist and adds richness without overpowering the strawberry notes.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Essential for a smooth, sweet frosting that complements the fruity base perfectly.
- 2 tbsp strawberry jam: Bonne Maman is recommended here — it provides intense strawberry flavor and ties the frosting to the brownie.
- 1–2 tbsp milk or cream: This thins the frosting just enough for easy spreading while adding extra creaminess.
- 2 oz cream cheese: For that extra creamy frosting texture with a slight tang that balances the sweetness.
How to Make Strawberry Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Batter
Starting off, grab a large bowl and combine the strawberry cake mix with the eggs and vegetable oil. It’s important to stir these together until you get a thick, uniform batter that looks slightly stiff. Don’t worry if the mixture feels dense — that’s exactly the fudgy texture you want for your brownies.
Step 2: Press and Bake
Next, take an 8×8 glass baking dish and line it with parchment paper for easy removal. Press the thick batter evenly into the pan so it’s uniformly spread out. Pop it into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 18 to 22 minutes. You’ll want to look for the edges to be set while the center remains a little soft to keep that melt-in-your-mouth brownie quality.
Step 3: Cool Completely
This step is crucial. Once baking is done, allow your strawberry brownies to cool entirely in the pan. Cooling prevents the frosting from melting when applied and permits the brownies to firm up just right for confident slicing.
Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Frosting
While your brownies are cooling, whip up the frosting by blending the powdered sugar, strawberry jam, cream cheese, and milk or cream together until smooth and luscious. This frosting is the crowning glory that delivers a creamy burst of strawberry goodness with every bite.
Step 5: Frost and Enjoy
Finally, spread the creamy frosting evenly over the cooled brownies. For a polished look, use a spatula to smooth it out gently. Once frosted, cut into your desired squares and get ready for smiles all around! This Strawberry Brownies Recipe is sure to wow anyone lucky enough to taste it.
How to Serve Strawberry Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Strawberry Brownies Recipe, try garnishing with fresh sliced strawberries on top of the frosting or a delicate sprinkle of powdered sugar. You could also add a few chopped nuts for a bit of crunch or even white chocolate shavings for an extra touch of luxury.
Side Dishes
Serve these strawberry brownies alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a dreamy dessert combo. A dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce also complements the fruity richness, making each bite feel special.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or special occasions, cut the brownies into bite-sized squares and place them on decorative plates with a small fresh strawberry on top of each piece. You might also experiment with layering the brownies in trifles with whipped cream and berries for a visually stunning presentation that tastes just as good.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying a round of your Strawberry Brownies Recipe, store any leftover pieces in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Keeping them covered protects the delicate frosting and helps maintain that perfect moist texture.
Freezing
You can freeze the uncut brownies before frosting, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge and then add the frosting fresh for best results.
Reheating
If you prefer warm brownies, gently reheat individual squares in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat to keep the frosting intact while warming the rich strawberry batter underneath.
FAQs
Can I use homemade strawberry puree instead of cake mix?
While homemade strawberry puree is delicious, this particular Strawberry Brownies Recipe relies on the structure and leavening that the boxed strawberry cake mix provides. You might need additional adjustments to replicate the texture, so the boxed mix keeps it simple and foolproof.
What kind of cream cheese works best for the frosting?
Regular full-fat cream cheese gives the creamiest, richest frosting that balances perfectly with the sweet strawberry jam. Avoid reduced-fat versions as they can sometimes be too watery or less smooth.
Can I substitute the vegetable oil for butter?
Yes, melted butter can be used instead of vegetable oil for a slightly richer flavor, but it may alter the softness and moisture slightly. Vegetable oil tends to keep these brownies ultra moist and tender.
Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?
This recipe as written relies on a boxed strawberry cake mix, which usually contains gluten. Look for a gluten-free strawberry cake mix alternative to make the recipe gluten free.
How do I prevent the brownies from getting too dry?
Make sure not to overbake your Strawberry Brownies Recipe by checking them at the 18-minute mark and removing them as soon as the edges set. Also, don’t skip the vegetable oil as it helps keep the brownies moist and tender.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about combining strawberries with the rich fudginess of brownies, and this Strawberry Brownies Recipe hits that sweet spot every time. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, it’s a fun and delicious way to surprise your family and friends. I can’t wait for you to try it and hear how much it becomes a treasured favorite in your dessert lineup too!
Print
Strawberry Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 9 squares (8×8 pan)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Strawberry Brownies are a delightful twist on traditional brownies, using strawberry cake mix to create a fudgy, fruity dessert. With a soft, chewy texture and a creamy strawberry-infused frosting, they offer a perfect balance of sweetness and richness, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Brownie Base
- 1 box strawberry cake mix (preferably Pillsbury for the best texture)
- 2 large eggs
- â…“ cup vegetable oil
Frosting
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp strawberry jam (Bonne Maman recommended)
- 1–2 tbsp milk or cream
- 2 oz cream cheese
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, two large eggs, and â…“ cup of vegetable oil. Stir together until the mixture is thick and fully incorporated, which is key to achieving the fudgy texture.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Line an 8×8 glass baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make removal easier.
- Press Batter: Evenly press the thick brownie mixture into the prepared baking dish to ensure uniform thickness and baking.
- Bake: Place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 18–22 minutes. The edges should be set while the center remains slightly soft for the ideal fudgy consistency.
- Cool: Remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool completely at room temperature before frosting to ensure the frosting sets perfectly.
- Prepare Frosting: In a bowl, blend 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons strawberry jam, 1 to 2 tablespoons milk or cream, and 2 ounces of cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Frost and Serve: Spread the creamy strawberry frosting over the cooled brownies evenly. Cut into 9 squares and serve.
Notes
- Be careful not to overbake to maintain the fudgy center texture.
- For a stronger strawberry flavor, use high-quality strawberry jam like Bonne Maman.
- Make sure brownies are completely cooled before frosting to prevent melting.
- Parchment lining helps with easy removal and cleanup.
