Strawberry Brownies

These Strawberry Brownies are a delightful and easy dessert that combines the sweetness of strawberries with the rich texture of brownies. Perfect for parties, picnics, or just a sweet treat at home, these brownies are sure to please everyone. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up these delicious pink treats in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 25 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for last-minute cravings.
• Delicious Flavor: The strawberry cake mix gives these brownies a unique twist that is both sweet and fruity.
• Versatile Treat: Serve them at birthday parties, bake sales, or enjoy them as an afternoon snack with coffee.
• Minimal Ingredients: With only a few pantry staples needed, these brownies are easy to make without a trip to the store.
• Great Presentation: The vibrant pink color makes them visually appealing for any occasion.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Strawberry Brownies, you’ll need some handy tools. Having the right equipment will ensure your baking process goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8×8 baking pan
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Nonstick spray or parchment paper
• Spoon or mixer

Importance of Each Tool

• 8×8 baking pan: This size is perfect for evenly baking your brownies without them becoming too thin or too thick.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to easily mix all the ingredients together without spilling.
• Spoon or mixer: Either tool works well for combining your ingredients quickly and efficiently.

Ingredients

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

For the 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)

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. Spray an 8×8 pan with nonstick spray or line it with foil. Set aside. You can use a glass baking dish lined with parchment paper for easier 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 a mixer; both methods work well. Once mixed thoroughly, press the batter into your prepared pan. Bake in your preheated oven for about 18-22 minutes, or until they are just done. Allow them to cool completely before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Brownies! They’re bound to be a hit wherever you serve them!

How to Serve Strawberry Brownies

These Strawberry Brownies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you serve them as a casual dessert or at a special gathering, these brownies are sure to impress.

A La Mode

• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic pairing. The cold ice cream melts slightly on the brownies, creating a deliciously creamy texture.

With Fresh Strawberries

• Top each brownie with sliced fresh strawberries for added flavor and color. This enhances the strawberry taste and adds a refreshing touch.

Cream Cheese Frosting

• Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting on top for extra richness. This combination pairs well with the strawberry flavor and adds a creamy texture.

Drizzled with Chocolate

• Drizzle melted chocolate over the brownies for an indulgent twist. The chocolate adds depth and pairs beautifully with the strawberries.

Whipped Cream Topping

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on top to lighten up the dessert. This simple addition makes the brownies feel extra special.

How to Perfect Strawberry Brownies

Perfecting your Strawberry Brownies is easy with just a few tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your brownies turn out delicious every time.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality strawberry cake mix and fresh eggs to enhance the overall flavor.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep your brownies soft and chewy. Overmixing can lead to tough brownies.
• Check for Doneness: Bake until just set; they should not be dry. Use a toothpick to test; it should come out with a few moist crumbs.
• Allow Cooling Time: Let your brownies cool completely before cutting. This helps them set and makes slicing easier.
• Store Properly: Keep leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Brownies

Pairing side dishes with your Strawberry Brownies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream complements the sweetness of the brownies beautifully.
2. Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits can balance the richness of the brownies.
3. Chocolate Sauce: Serve alongside chocolate sauce for drizzling, adding an extra layer of indulgence.
4. Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup of coffee or espresso can provide a delightful contrast to the sweet flavors.
5. Whipped Cream: Offer whipped cream as an optional topping for added fluffiness and lightness on each bite.
6. Mint Leaves: Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and refreshing flavor that cuts through sweetness.
7. Custard Sauce: Serve with a drizzle of custard sauce for an elegant touch that enhances each brownie serving.
8. Nut Butter: Provide almond or peanut butter on the side; its nutty flavor pairs nicely with strawberry desserts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Strawberry Brownies, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Using a different cake mix: Stick with strawberry cake mix that has pudding in the mix. This ensures moist and flavorful brownies.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use proper measuring cups for liquids and solids. Accurate measurements lead to consistent results.
• Overbaking the brownies: Keep an eye on the baking time. Remove them from the oven when they are just set in the middle to maintain a fudgy texture.
• Skipping the cooling step: Allow your brownies to cool completely before cutting. This helps them firm up and makes slicing easier.
• Neglecting optional ingredients: Experimenting with cream cheese or strawberry preserves can enhance flavor. Don’t skip these if you want a richer taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
• They can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Strawberry Brownies

• Wrap brownies individually in plastic wrap for easy serving later.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Strawberry Brownies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5-10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual pieces for 15-20 seconds until warm. Be careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place in a pan on low heat, flipping occasionally, until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Strawberry Brownies that may help you while baking.

Can I use other flavors of cake mix for brownies?

Yes, you can experiment with other cake mixes like chocolate or vanilla. However, it will change the flavor profile of your brownies.

How do I make my Strawberry Brownies more chocolatey?

Add chocolate chips or cocoa powder to the batter. This will create a delightful chocolate-strawberry combination.

What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe?

You can use unsweetened applesauce or mashed bananas as an egg replacement. Use 1/4 cup per egg needed.

How should I store leftover Strawberry Brownies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Final Thoughts

These Strawberry Brownies are not only quick and easy but also incredibly delicious! The vibrant color and sweet flavor make them perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize with nuts, chocolate chips, or different frosting options to fit your taste!

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Strawberry Brownies

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Indulge in the delightful flavors of these Strawberry Brownies, a quick and easy dessert that marries the sweetness of strawberries with the rich texture of fudgy brownies. Perfect for any occasion—be it a summer picnic, birthday celebration, or a simple afternoon treat—these vibrant pink brownies are sure to impress. Made from a strawberry cake mix and just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up this irresistible dessert in about 25 minutes. Top them with whipped cream, fresh strawberries, or a drizzle of chocolate for an extra special touch!

• Total Time: 28 minutes
• Yield: Makes approximately 16 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 box strawberry cake mix (with pudding)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/3 cup vegetable or canola oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Topping: powdered sugar, strawberry preserves, milk, and optional cream cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8×8 baking pan with nonstick spray.
2. In a large bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract until well mixed.
3. Press the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 18-22 minutes until just set.
4. Allow brownies to cool completely before serving.

• Author: Stephanie
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 18 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 brownie (45g)
• Calories: 130
• Sugar: 14g
• Sodium: 90mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 19g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: For a richer flavor, consider adding chocolate chips to the batter. Experiment with toppings like whipped cream or fresh fruit to enhance presentation and taste.