If you’ve ever dreamed of a dessert that’s bursting with fruity freshness and that melt-in-your-mouth chocolatey richness, this Strawberry Brownies Recipe is absolutely the treat you need to try. Imagine combining the moist, tender texture of a classic brownie with the vibrant, sweet essence of strawberries baked right in—each bite delivering a delightful balance of flavors that feels both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, these strawberry brownies promise to be an instant favorite, captivating taste buds with their beautiful pink hue and luscious strawberry notes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Even though this recipe might sound fancy, the ingredients are straightforward and wonderfully doable—each playing an essential role in building that perfect strawberry brownie experience. From the strawberry cake mix that brings a bright base to the melted butter for richness, every element contributes to the flavor, texture, and irresistible aroma you’ll love.
- 1 (15.25-oz) box strawberry cake mix: This forms the delicious pink foundation packed with strawberry flavor to make the brownies vibrant and fruity.
- 2 large eggs: Eggs help bind everything together while keeping the brownies tender and moist.
- ½ cup melted butter: Adds richness and a slightly crispy edge to the brownies.
- 1 tsp strawberry extract: Intensifies the strawberry flavor for a deeper fruitiness.
- ½ tsp vanilla extract: Balances the taste with warm, sweet undertones.
- ½ tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors, making each bite pop.
- ¾ cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the glaze that finishes the brownies perfectly.
- 2 Tbsp strawberry preserves: Provides a luscious, jammy glaze that adds both shine and extra strawberry goodness.
- 1 tbsp milk: Helps achieve the right glaze consistency.
How to Make Strawberry Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients and Preheat
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing or lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal. This setup ensures even baking and helps your brownies come out clean and beautiful.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a large bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, eggs, melted butter, strawberry extract, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir the mixture just until everything is incorporated. The batter should be smooth and thick with that lovely pink color—the anticipation is already half the fun!
Step 3: Bake the Brownies
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for about 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean with just a few crumbs. Keep an eye on them toward the end—they should be moist but cooked through.
Step 4: Prepare the Glaze
While the brownies are cooling, whisk together the powdered sugar, strawberry preserves, and milk in a small bowl. The glaze should be smooth and spreadable; if it’s too thick, add a little more milk to reach the perfect consistency.
Step 5: Glaze and Cool
Once the brownies are completely cooled, spread the strawberry glaze evenly over the top. This step is what gives your dessert that extra layer of sweetness, shine, and strawberry punch. Let the glaze set for about 15 minutes before slicing.
How to Serve Strawberry Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
For a truly irresistible presentation, try topping the glazed strawberry brownies with a few fresh strawberry slices or a sprinkle of finely chopped white chocolate. The fresh fruit adds a juicy contrast, while white chocolate enhances the sweetness and creamy texture.
Side Dishes
These brownies pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the fruity sweetness with cool creaminess. Alternatively, a small side of fresh berries intensifies the strawberry experience and makes the dessert feel even fresher.
Creative Ways to Present
For an eye-catching twist, cut the brownies into heart shapes using a cookie cutter—perfect for parties or romantic occasions. You can also serve them layered with cream or mascarpone for a strawberry brownie parfait, turning this humble treat into a stunning dessert centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep leftover strawberry brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days without losing any of their charm. If you want to preserve their softness longer, store them in the fridge, but allow them to come back to room temperature before enjoying.
Freezing
Strawberry brownies freeze beautifully. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag or airtight container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
To warm up frozen or refrigerated brownies, pop them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or until just warmed through. This helps to bring back that fresh-baked softness and melts the glaze slightly for a decadent bite.
FAQs
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of strawberry preserves?
Fresh strawberries can add a lovely natural flavor but won’t create the same glossy glaze as preserves. If you want to use fresh fruit, consider gently cooking them with a little sugar to make a quick jam or compote before glazing.
What if I don’t have strawberry cake mix?
While strawberry cake mix simplifies the process, you can experiment with yellow or vanilla cake mix and add extra strawberry extract or fresh strawberries for flavor. Just expect a slightly different texture and color.
Is there a way to make these brownies vegan?
Replacing eggs and butter with plant-based alternatives is possible, but you might need to experiment with the right egg replacer to maintain texture. Vegan butter or coconut oil can substitute melted butter, and flax eggs work nicely.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes! Just double all the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan, adjusting the baking time to about 30-35 minutes. Check for doneness with a toothpick to avoid overbaking.
How do I know when the brownies are done baking?
Look for edges that have pulled away slightly from the pan with a set center that’s not liquidy. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs, but not wet batter. This ensures fudgy but fully cooked brownies.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a Strawberry Brownies Recipe that combines the charm of a classic brownie with the freshness of strawberries, creating a dessert that feels both indulgent and bright. I can’t recommend enough giving this recipe a try—it’s one of those easy, crowd-pleasing treats that turns any day into a celebration. So grab your ingredients, bake with joy, and enjoy every luscious bite!
Print
Strawberry Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightfully fruity and rich, these Strawberry Brownies blend the classic fudgy brownie texture with the sweet and tangy flavor of strawberries. Made from a strawberry cake mix base and enhanced with strawberry extract and preserves, these treats are perfect for berry lovers looking for a simple yet delicious dessert.
Ingredients
Brownie Base
- 1 (15.25-oz) box strawberry cake mix
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup melted butter
- 1 tsp strawberry extract
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp salt
Topping
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
- 2 Tbsp strawberry preserves
- 1 tbsp milk
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8×8 inch baking pan by lightly greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.
- Mix Brownie Batter: In a large bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, eggs, melted butter, strawberry extract, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until the batter is smooth and well mixed.
- Bake the Brownies: Pour the brownie batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean with moist crumbs.
- Prepare Icing: While the brownies bake, whisk together the powdered sugar, strawberry preserves, and milk in a small bowl to create a smooth glaze.
- Cool and Glaze: Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan. After cooling, spread the strawberry glaze evenly over the top of the brownies.
- Serve: Slice into 9 squares and enjoy your strawberry brownies as a luscious, fruity dessert.
Notes
- Ensure the brownies cool completely before glazing to prevent the icing from melting.
- You can substitute strawberry preserves with fresh mashed strawberries for a fresher taste.
- Adding a handful of white chocolate chips to the batter can enhance the flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
