Strawberry Brownies

These Strawberry Brownies are a delightful twist on traditional brownies, combining the rich flavor of strawberries with the simplicity of cake mix. Perfect for any gathering, these treats are easy to whip up and will impress your family and friends. With their vibrant color and delicious taste, they’re ideal for celebrations, picnics, or just a sweet afternoon snack. Let’s dive into this quick dessert that’s sure to become a favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, these brownies can be ready in no time.
• Delicious Flavor: The strawberry cake mix infuses these brownies with a sweet, fruity taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for parties, bake sales, or an everyday dessert; they fit any occasion.
• Visual Appeal: The beautiful pink hue makes these brownies not just tasty but also visually stunning.
• Customizable Options: Easily add toppings or mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips for added flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need to prepare your Strawberry Brownies.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Mixing spoon or electric mixer
• 8×8 baking pan
• Nonstick spray or parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing Bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all your ingredients without making a mess.
• Measuring Cups: Accurate measurements ensure the perfect texture and flavor in your brownies.
• 8×8 Baking Pan: This size is ideal for achieving even baking and perfect portion sizes.

Ingredients

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

For the Brownie Base

• 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.

Step 2: Mix & Bake

In a large bowl, combine the following:
1. Strawberry cake mix
2. Eggs
3. Oil
4. Vanilla extract

Mix well using a spoon or an electric mixer until fully combined. Press the mixture into the prepared pan evenly.

Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes until just done. Allow cooling completely before cutting into squares.

Enjoy your delicious 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. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet evening, these serving suggestions will elevate your dessert experience.

A La Mode

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

With Fresh Strawberries

• Serve with sliced fresh strawberries on the side to complement the strawberry flavor and add freshness.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• A drizzle of chocolate sauce adds an indulgent touch and enhances the overall taste profile of the brownies.

Dusting of Powdered Sugar

• Lightly dust with powdered sugar just before serving for a beautiful presentation and an extra hint of sweetness.

Whipped Cream Topping

• Top with a dollop of whipped cream for added richness and creaminess that pairs perfectly with the brownies.

How to Perfect Strawberry Brownies

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

• Use Quality Cake Mix: Choosing a high-quality strawberry cake mix will significantly enhance the flavor of your brownies.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your brownies while baking; they should be soft in the center for that fudgy texture.
• Let Them Cool: Allow your brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting. This helps them set properly and makes slicing easier.
• Experiment with Mix-Ins: Consider adding fun mix-ins like white chocolate chips or nuts for added texture and flavor.
• Try Different Toppings: Explore various toppings like nuts, coconut flakes, or even caramel sauce to personalize your dessert.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Brownies

Pairing side dishes with Strawberry Brownies can create a well-rounded dessert spread. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream – A classic pairing that complements the sweetness of the brownies perfectly.
2. Fresh Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances out the richness of the brownies.
3. Chocolate Mousse – Silky smooth chocolate mousse adds an elegant touch alongside your strawberry treat.
4. Nutty Granola Parfait – Layer granola, yogurt, and berries for a crunchy and creamy side dish.
5. Coconut Whipped Cream – A dairy-free option that provides a tropical twist when paired with strawberry flavors.
6. Berry Compote – A warm berry compote drizzled over brownies enhances their fruity notes while adding moisture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Strawberry Brownies can be simple, but there are common mistakes to watch out for.

• Using the wrong cake mix: Not all cake mixes are created equal. Ensure you use a strawberry cake mix with pudding in the mix to achieve the best flavor and texture.
• Skipping the cooling step: Allow your brownies to cool completely before cutting. Cutting them too soon can result in messy, uneven pieces.
• Overbaking: Keep an eye on the baking time. Overbaking can lead to dry brownies. Aim for 18-22 minutes, checking for doneness.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is a science. Use proper measuring cups and spoons for accurate ingredient amounts to ensure consistent results.
• Ignoring optional ingredients: Optional ingredients like cream cheese can add richness. Don’t skip them unless you prefer a lighter brownie.

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

• Place cooled brownies in a freezer-safe container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Strawberry Brownies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Heat brownies for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual servings on high for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place brownies in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm slowly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Strawberry Brownies.

Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?

Yes! You can substitute any flavored cake mix if you want to experiment with different taste profiles.

How do I know when my Strawberry Brownies are done?

Check for a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite nuts or chocolate chips to enhance flavor and texture.

What if I don’t have strawberry preserves?

You can replace strawberry preserves with other fruit preserves or even fresh strawberries for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

These Strawberry Brownies are not just easy; they are also versatile and delicious. You can customize them with different toppings or mix-ins based on your preferences. Try this delightful dessert today!