Strawberry Brownies

These Strawberry Brownies are a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of strawberries with the rich, fudgy texture of brownies. Perfect for any occasion, these easy-to-make brownies are sure to impress friends and family alike. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time. Whether it’s a birthday party, a picnic, or just a cozy evening at home, these Strawberry Brownies will be the star of the dessert table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only five minutes of prep time, you can have delicious brownies ready in 25 minutes!
• Simple Ingredients: Made with an easy-to-find strawberry cake mix and common pantry staples, this recipe is accessible for everyone.
• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of strawberry preserves and cake mix creates a moist and flavorful brownie experience.
• Versatile Dessert: These brownies can be enjoyed as a standalone treat or paired with ice cream for an over-the-top dessert.
• Perfect for Sharing: Cut into 16 pieces, they are great for gatherings or sharing with friends.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience seamless, gather the necessary tools beforehand. Having everything ready will ensure you can focus on creating these delicious Strawberry Brownies.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Baking pan (8×8)
• Nonstick spray or foil

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl helps combine all ingredients thoroughly without spills.
• Baking pan (8×8): The right size ensures even baking and perfect portion sizes.
• Nonstick spray or foil: Prevents sticking and makes for easy cleanup after baking.

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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)
• 3/4 cup powdered sugar (90g)
• 2 tablespoon 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. Prepare an 8×8 pan by spraying it with nonstick spray or lining it with foil. Depending on your preference, you can also use parchment paper for easier removal later.

Step 2: Mix & Bake

In a large mixing bowl, combine the following:
1. The strawberry cake mix
2. The eggs
3. The vegetable or canola oil
4. The vanilla extract

Use either a spoon or mixer to blend until smooth; both methods yield great results. Once mixed, press the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.

Bake in your preheated oven for about 18-22 minutes, or until just set. After baking, allow them to cool completely before cutting into squares. Enjoy your delightful Strawberry Brownies!

How to Serve Strawberry Brownies

Strawberry Brownies are a delightful treat that can be served in various ways to enhance their flavor and presentation. Here are some creative serving suggestions to try.

With Fresh Strawberries

• Add fresh, sliced strawberries on top for a burst of flavor and a beautiful presentation. This pairs perfectly with the brownie’s sweetness.

Ice Cream Scoop

• Top your Strawberry Brownies with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream. The creamy texture contrasts nicely with the chewy brownies.

Whipped Cream

• A dollop of whipped cream on each brownie makes for an elegant touch. Consider adding a sprinkle of crushed strawberries for extra flair.

Chocolate Drizzle

• Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the brownies for an indulgent finish. This enhances the chocolatey flavor and adds visual appeal.

Serve with Hot Fudge Sauce

• Pour warm fudge sauce over your brownies when serving. It creates a gooey texture that many chocolate lovers will enjoy.

How to Perfect Strawberry Brownies

To ensure your Strawberry Brownies turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Cake Mix: Opt for a strawberry cake mix that contains pudding for added moisture and flavor.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to dense brownies instead of soft ones.
• Check Doneness: Bake until the edges are set but the center is still slightly soft. Use a toothpick; it should come out with moist crumbs.
• Cool Completely: Allow the brownies to cool fully in the pan before cutting. This helps them set and makes slicing easier.
• Add Toppings: Experiment with toppings like nuts or coconut flakes for extra texture and taste variations.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Brownies

Serving side dishes alongside Strawberry Brownies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some fantastic pairings:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that balances sweetness with creaminess.
2. Fresh Fruit Salad: Light and refreshing, it complements the rich flavors of the brownies.
3. Mint Tea: The herbal notes from mint tea provide a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the brownies.
4. Chocolate Mousse: Rich and creamy, this combination will please any chocolate lover’s palate.
5. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel adds extra sweetness and richness to each bite.
6. Cheesecake Bites: These small treats offer a creamy contrast to the fudgy brownies, ideal for sharing!

Experimenting with these serving ideas and side dishes will make your Strawberry Brownies even more enjoyable!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Strawberry Brownies is simple, but many people make common mistakes that can affect the outcome.

• Using the wrong cake mix: Not all cake mixes are created equal. Choose a strawberry cake mix with pudding in the mix for the best texture and flavor.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to tough brownies. Blend just until combined to keep them soft and chewy.
• Not cooling completely: If you cut into your brownies before they cool, they may fall apart. Allow them to cool fully in the pan for better slicing.
• Skipping the parchment paper: Lining your pan with parchment paper helps prevent sticking. If you skip this step, you risk losing half of your brownies to the pan.
• Ignoring baking time: Every oven is different. Start checking your brownies at 18 minutes but be careful not to overbake, as they will continue to cook while cooling.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Strawberry Brownies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 4 days when refrigerated.

Freezing Strawberry Brownies

• Wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Strawberry Brownies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Heat brownies for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Warm on a microwave-safe plate for 10-15 seconds; be careful not to overheat them.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet on low heat, covered, for about 5 minutes to warm through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Strawberry Brownies.

Can I use a different flavor of cake mix for Strawberry Brownies?

Yes! You can use other fruit-flavored cake mixes like raspberry or lemon. Just keep an eye on baking times as they may vary.

What can I substitute for vegetable oil in Strawberry Brownies?

You can use melted coconut oil or applesauce as a healthier alternative. Both will work well in this recipe.

How do I know when my Strawberry Brownies are done?

Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, they’re ready!

Are these Strawberry Brownies suitable for parties?

Absolutely! Their vibrant color and delicious flavor make them perfect for gatherings and celebrations.

Final Thoughts

These Strawberry Brownies are not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious and visually appealing. They offer great versatility; try adding nuts, chocolate chips, or even other fruit preserves for a twist. Don’t hesitate—give this delightful treat a try!