If you adore the juicy, sweet tang of fresh strawberries and the rich, indulgent texture of brownies, then this Strawberry Brownies Recipe is going to become your new favorite treat. It’s a fun twist on traditional brownies, crafted with strawberry cake mix and topped with a luscious glaze that amplifies every bit of that berry flavor. These beauties bake up moist, fragrant, and bursting with strawberry goodness in every bite, making them a perfect pick-me-up or a show-stopping dessert to share with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step towards making these divine brownies, and you’ll be happy to know it’s delightfully straightforward. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from creating a tender crumb to infusing the iconic strawberry essence that makes this recipe so irresistible.
- Strawberry cake mix: The foundation of the recipe, providing that unmistakable strawberry flavor and a light, fluffy texture.
- Large eggs: These bind the ingredients together and help the brownies rise to a perfect, tender consistency.
- Vegetable oil: Adds moisture and richness without overpowering the strawberry notes.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor by adding warmth and depth to the strawberry base.
- Powdered sugar: Key for creating a smooth, sweet glaze that perfectly complements the cake-like brownies.
- Strawberry preserves: Boosts the strawberry intensity and adds a little fruity texture to the glaze.
- Milk: Helps to thin the glaze to just the right consistency for spreading.
How to Make Strawberry Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350℉. Grease an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish. For easy brownie removal, line the bottom with parchment paper leaving a little overhang on the sides—you’ll thank yourself when it’s time for slicing and serving!
Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a large bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is fully incorporated. The batter might feel thick and dense, but that’s exactly how it should be to give these brownies their perfect texture.
Step 3: Transfer to Pan
Scrape the thick batter into your prepared baking dish. Use a rubber spatula to smooth it out evenly so the brownies bake uniformly throughout.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 20-23 minutes. You’ll want to check with a toothpick inserted in the center — it should come out mostly clean, with just a few moist crumbs clinging. After baking, let the brownies cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes to set up nicely.
Step 5: Glaze and Finish
While your brownies cool, whisk together the powdered sugar, strawberry preserves, and milk in a small bowl until smooth and glossy. Spread this luscious glaze over the top of your cooled brownies. Once the glaze sets, use the parchment paper’s overhang to lift the brownies out of the pan and cut into your desired size.
How to Serve Strawberry Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of charm, sprinkle fresh sliced strawberries or a handful of freeze-dried strawberry pieces on top before the glaze sets. If you’re feeling fancy, a dollop of whipped cream or a dusting of edible pink glitter can turn these into dessert showstoppers at your next gathering.
Side Dishes
These strawberry brownies pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an indulgent experience. A simple fresh fruit salad or a cup of refreshing mint tea also contrast nicely with their sweet richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking these brownies on a pretty cake stand layered with parchment or lace doilies for a lovely presentation. For parties, cut them into bite-sized squares and serve with toothpicks. If it’s a picnic, wrap individual brownies in wax paper and tie with a ribbon—they make sweet little gifts or treats on the go.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your leftover strawberry brownies stay fresh and delicious when stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If your kitchen is warm, popping them in the fridge will extend their lifespan and keep the glaze firm.
Freezing
To freeze, cut the brownies into individual squares and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a resealable freezer bag. They keep well for up to 3 months and thaw beautifully at room temperature when you’re ready for a sweet treat.
Reheating
Warm your brownies briefly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to revive that fresh-baked sensation. Avoid overheating to preserve the glaze and keep the texture just right. Enjoy them warm with a scoop of ice cream for extra comfort.
FAQs
Can I use another type of cake mix for this Strawberry Brownies Recipe?
While strawberry cake mix gives the signature flavor, you can experiment with other berry flavors or even white cake mix with added strawberry preserves. Just keep in mind the taste will shift slightly with different mixes.
How thick should the batter be before baking?
The batter will be thick and slightly stiff compared to regular cake batter. This density helps create the fudgy, brownie-like texture you want. If it’s too runny, double-check your measurements or consider using less oil.
Can I make these gluten-free?
If you find a gluten-free strawberry cake mix, this recipe can easily become gluten-free as well. Just make sure your other ingredients like preserves and powdered sugar are also gluten-free certified.
How do I get the glaze to set properly?
The glaze sets best when the brownies are completely cool. Spread it evenly and let it sit at room temperature or chill briefly until it becomes firm and glossy before slicing.
What’s the best way to cut the brownies cleanly?
Use a sharp knife and clean it between slices for the cleanest cuts. Using the parchment paper overhang to lift the brownies out of the pan before cutting also helps keep the edges neat and tidy.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Brownies Recipe blends the best of both worlds—moist, tender cake with the charm and depth of a brownie, all wrapped up in fresh strawberry flavor. It’s truly one of those feel-good desserts that brightens any day and brings smiles all around. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover how simple ingredients can come together in such a delicious way. Happy baking!
Print
Strawberry Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Strawberry Brownies combine the sweet, fruity flavor of strawberry cake mix with the rich texture of classic brownies. Topped with a luscious strawberry glaze, they are moist, tender, and perfect for a delightful dessert or snack. Easy to make with simple ingredients and baked in under 30 minutes, these treats are great for strawberry lovers looking for a fun twist on traditional brownies.
Ingredients
Brownie Batter
- 1 (15.25-ounce) box strawberry cake mix (Duncan Hines recommended)
- 2 large eggs
- â…“ cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Strawberry Glaze
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons strawberry preserves
- 1 ½ tablespoons milk
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350℉ (175℃). Grease an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish, then line the bottom with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. This will help you lift the brownies out easily once baked.
- Mix the Batter: In a large bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Stir well until fully combined. Note that the batter will be quite thick and sticky.
- Transfer Batter to Pan: Scrape the thick batter into the prepared baking dish. Use a rubber spatula to spread and flatten the top evenly for uniform baking.
- Bake the Brownies: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 23 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out mostly clean with just a few moist crumbs attached. Remove and allow to cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes.
- Prepare and Apply Glaze: While the brownies are cooling, whisk together the powdered sugar, strawberry preserves, and milk in a small bowl until smooth. Spread the glaze evenly over the cooled brownies. Let the glaze set slightly before lifting the brownies out using the parchment paper overhang.
- Slice and Serve: Cut the glazed brownies into 16 equal pieces and serve. Enjoy the moist texture with a sweet strawberry finish!
Notes
- Use parchment paper in the pan for easy removal and cleaner slicing.
- Do not overbake to keep the brownies moist and tender.
- You can substitute milk with almond milk or other dairy-free milk for a lactose-free version.
- For a more intense strawberry flavor, add a teaspoon of freeze-dried strawberry powder into the batter.
- Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
