Strawberry Brownies

These Strawberry Brownies are a delightful twist on a classic dessert, featuring a vibrant strawberry flavor that will please any crowd. Perfect for birthday parties, family gatherings, or simply as a sweet treat after dinner, these brownies are quick and easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch that’s moist, flavorful, and visually appealing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With only 25 minutes from start to finish, you can satisfy your sweet tooth in no time.
• Fun Flavor: The strawberry cake mix adds a unique twist that sets these brownies apart from traditional recipes.
• Versatile Dessert: Serve them as is, or dress them up with frosting or fresh strawberries for special occasions.
• Kid-Friendly: Easy enough for kids to help with, making it a fun family activity!
• Perfectly Moist: The combination of ingredients ensures each brownie is soft and chewy.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8×8 baking pan
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Nonstick cooking spray or foil

Importance of Each Tool

• 8×8 baking pan: This size is ideal for even baking and produces the perfect brownie thickness.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl is necessary for combining all the ingredients thoroughly without mess.
• Measuring cups & spoons: Accurate measurements ensure consistent results every time you bake.

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. If using glass bakeware, lining it with parchment paper can help with easy removal.

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 mixer—both methods yield great results.
– Press the mixture into the prepared pan evenly.
– Bake in your preheated oven for about 18-22 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean when done.
– Once baked, let cool completely before cutting into squares.

Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Brownies! They’re sure to become a favorite among your friends and family.

How to Serve Strawberry Brownies

Serving Strawberry Brownies can elevate your dessert experience. They are versatile and can be paired with various accompaniments to enhance their flavor and presentation.

A La Mode

• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a creamy contrast to the strawberry flavor.

Drizzled with Chocolate

• Melt some dark or white chocolate and drizzle over the brownies for an elegant touch.

Fresh Strawberries

• Top with sliced fresh strawberries to add a burst of freshness and color.

Whipped Cream

• Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for extra sweetness and a light texture.

Nuts on Top

• Sprinkle chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for added crunch and flavor.

Powdered Sugar Dusting

• Lightly dust the brownies with powdered sugar just before serving for a beautiful finish.

How to Perfect Strawberry Brownies

To achieve perfect Strawberry Brownies, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your brownies turn out delicious every time.

• Choose Quality Cake Mix: Use a high-quality strawberry cake mix for the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix ingredients just until combined to keep the brownies from becoming tough.
• Check Baking Time: Keep an eye on baking time; underbaking slightly will result in a fudgy texture.
• Cool Completely: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting for cleaner edges.
• Experiment with Toppings: Don’t hesitate to add different toppings like nuts or sprinkles for variety.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Brownies

Pairing side dishes with your Strawberry Brownies can enhance the overall dessert experience. Here are some delightful options.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream
   A classic pairing that complements the fruity flavor perfectly.

2. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances sweetness.

3. Chocolate Sauce
   Rich chocolate sauce can be served on the side for dipping or drizzling.

4. Caramel Sauce
   Sweet caramel sauce offers a delicious contrast to the tartness of strawberries.

5. Coconut Whipped Cream
   A dairy-free alternative that adds a tropical twist to your dessert.

6. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer Greek yogurt with granola and berries for a refreshing side dish that feels indulgent yet healthy.

7. Cheesecake Dip
   Creamy cheesecake dip pairs wonderfully, allowing guests to enjoy dipping their brownies.

8. Chilled Lemonade
   A refreshing drink option that balances the sweetness of the brownies beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially when making Strawberry Brownies. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Boldly skip the cooling step: Not allowing your brownies to cool completely can lead to a messy cut. Patience is key for clean slices.
• Boldly forget to measure accurately: Baking is a science. Use precise measurements for ingredients like oil and sugar to achieve the right texture.
• Boldly overlook the baking time: Every oven is different. Start checking your brownies at 18 minutes to avoid overbaking.
• Boldly ignore pan preparation: Skipping nonstick spray or parchment paper may result in sticking. Always prepare your baking dish properly.
• Boldly neglect optional ingredients: Ingredients like cream cheese can enhance flavor and texture. Don’t hesitate to explore these options!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Store in an airtight container: This keeps the brownies fresh for up to 5 days.
• • Layer with parchment paper: Prevents them from sticking together.

Freezing Strawberry Brownies

• • Wrap individually: Use plastic wrap or foil for freezing each brownie separately.
• • Store in a freezer-safe container: They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Strawberry Brownies

• Bold Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place brownies on a baking sheet and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Bold Microwave: Heat one brownie at a time for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Bold Stovetop: Place in a non-stick skillet over low heat, cover, and heat for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions people have about making Strawberry Brownies.

What makes Strawberry Brownies special?

Strawberry Brownies are unique because they combine the rich flavor of brownies with the fruity sweetness of strawberries, creating a delightful dessert.

Can I use other cake mix flavors?

Yes! While this recipe focuses on strawberry, you can experiment with chocolate or vanilla cake mixes for different flavors.

How do I know when my Strawberry Brownies are done?

Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick. It should come out mostly clean with just a few moist crumbs attached.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your Strawberry Brownies by adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips before baking.

Final Thoughts

These Strawberry Brownies are not only quick and easy but also versatile. You can enjoy them as they are or customize them with toppings and mix-ins. Give this delightful recipe a try, and let your creativity shine!