Strawberry Brownies

These Strawberry Brownies are the perfect quick dessert for any occasion. Made with a simple strawberry cake mix and just a handful of ingredients, they deliver a burst of fruity flavor in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a birthday, or simply indulging in a sweet treat at home, these brownies are sure to impress. Their vibrant pink color and delightful taste make them stand out, making them not just delicious but also visually appealing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just five minutes of prep time, you can whip up these brownies in no time.
• Deliciously Fruity: The strawberry cake mix gives these brownies a unique flavor that’s both sweet and refreshing.
• Versatile Serving Options: Great for parties, picnics, or as an easy dessert after dinner.
• Minimal Ingredients: You likely have most of the ingredients on hand already.
• Fun Color: The vibrant pink hue makes these brownies a fun addition to any dessert spread.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Tools and Preparation

To make these Strawberry Brownies successfully, you’ll need some essential tools and equipment. Gathering everything beforehand will streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• 8×8 baking pan: This size is ideal for creating perfectly baked brownies that are nice and thick.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows enough space to combine all ingredients without spillage.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the best results for your brownie texture and flavor.

Ingredients

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

Ingredients:
– 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)
– 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. For best results, I recommend using a glass baking dish lined with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix & Bake

In a large bowl, mix together the strawberry cake mix, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract until well combined. You can use either a spoon or mixer; both methods yield great results. Once mixed thoroughly, press the batter into the prepared pan.

Bake for 18-22 minutes until they are just done. Allow them to cool completely before cutting into squares.

Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Brownies!

How to Serve Strawberry Brownies

Strawberry Brownies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you want to impress guests or indulge yourself, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.

A La Mode

• Serve warm Strawberry Brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic combination that balances the sweetness and adds creamy texture.

Whipped Cream Topping

• Top each brownie with a dollop of freshly whipped cream. This light addition enhances the flavors and provides a beautiful presentation.

Fresh Strawberries

• Garnish with sliced fresh strawberries for added color and freshness. The natural acidity of the strawberries complements the sweetness of the brownies.

Chocolate Drizzle

• Drizzle melted chocolate over the brownies for an extra layer of richness. Use dark or white chocolate depending on your preference.

Mint Leaves

• Add a few fresh mint leaves on top for a pop of color and refreshing flavor. This simple touch makes the dish look elegant.

With Coffee

• Pair your Strawberry Brownies with a cup of coffee or espresso. The bitterness of coffee contrasts nicely with the sweet flavors, making for a perfect afternoon treat.

How to Perfect Strawberry Brownies

To achieve the best results with your Strawberry Brownies, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure that your brownies are moist, flavorful, and irresistible!

• Use Quality Ingredients: Always opt for high-quality strawberry cake mix and preserves. This will greatly enhance the flavor profile of your brownies.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense brownies instead of light and fluffy ones.

• Check for Doneness: Bake until just set; a toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. This ensures they stay moist without being undercooked.

• Let Them Cool: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting them. This helps them firm up, making slicing easier.

• Add Optional Ingredients: Consider including cream cheese for added richness or even chocolate chips for extra indulgence.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Brownies

If you’re looking to complement your Strawberry Brownies with some side dishes, here are some great options that pair well:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream
   A scoop of vanilla ice cream is a classic pairing that adds creaminess and balances sweetness beautifully.

2. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits can lighten up the meal and add vibrant colors to your dessert table.

3. Chocolate Sauce
   Serve alongside rich chocolate sauce for dipping or drizzling, giving an extra indulgent touch to your brownies.

4. Caramel Sauce
   A drizzle of warm caramel sauce adds another layer of flavor that pairs wonderfully with strawberry desserts.

5. Coffee or Tea
   Brew a pot of coffee or tea to serve alongside; both beverages provide a wonderful contrast to the sweetness of the brownies.

6. Cheese Platter
   A selection of mild cheeses can offer a savory counterpoint to the sweet flavors of strawberry brownies, making for an interesting combination.

7. Whipped Cream
   Provide whipped cream as a side option so guests can personalize their servings with this light topping.

8. Chopped Nuts
   Offer chopped nuts like almonds or pecans on the side for crunch if you want an added texture contrast in each bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Strawberry Brownies, it’s easy to overlook a few key details that can impact your dessert’s success.

• Using the wrong cake mix: Ensure you use a strawberry cake mix with pudding in the mix. This will keep your brownies moist and flavorful.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is precise. Use measuring cups for dry ingredients and liquid measuring cups for wet ones to achieve the best results.
• Overbaking: Keep an eye on the baking time. Start checking around 18 minutes and remove them when a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
• Skipping the cooling phase: Allow your brownies to cool completely before cutting. This helps them set properly and makes them easier to slice.
• Neglecting optional ingredients: Don’t skip the cream cheese unless you want a different texture. It adds richness and enhances flavor.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Strawberry Brownies

• Wrap brownies tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Strawberry Brownies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Microwave on medium power for 15-20 seconds for a warm treat.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Strawberry Brownies.

Can I use other cake mixes for Strawberry Brownies?

Yes! You can experiment with other flavors like chocolate or vanilla, but adjust the add-ins accordingly.

What can I substitute for eggs in Strawberry Brownies?

You can use unsweetened applesauce or flaxseed meal mixed with water as an egg substitute.

How can I make my Strawberry Brownies more decadent?

Consider adding chocolate chips or topping them with whipped cream after they’re baked for an extra indulgent treat.

Are these brownies suitable for parties?

Absolutely! These Strawberry Brownies are easy to make and perfect for sharing at gatherings or celebrations.

Final Thoughts

These Strawberry Brownies are not only quick and delicious but also versatile. Feel free to customize them by adding nuts or drizzling chocolate on top. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them as a cozy dessert at home, they are sure to delight!