Delight your taste buds with these decadent (yet ridiculously easy) Strawberry Brownies! Moist, chewy, and bursting with the perfect strawberry flavor, these treats are a delightful twist on a classic dessert that will impress everyone.
A Delicious Twist on a Classic Dessert: Easy Strawberry Brownies
Are you searching for an effortlessly delicious dessert that stands out from the crowd? Look no further! These Easy Strawberry Brownies are an absolute dream to make and even better to eat. As a devoted baker, I appreciate recipes that streamline the process, and starting with a simple cake mix is a secret weapon that ensures consistent results and saves valuable time. Chances are, you already have a cake mix tucked away in your pantry, making this recipe incredibly convenient.
What truly sets these brownies apart is their vibrant, fruity essence. While traditional chocolate brownies are beloved, these strawberry-infused squares offer a refreshing change, marrying the rich chewiness of a brownie with the sweet, aromatic notes of fresh strawberries. They’re not just easy; they’re a celebration of flavor, making them an ideal choice for any occasion – from an impromptu weeknight treat to a special gathering with family and friends. And for those moments when a sweet tooth strikes with undeniable force, these brownies are your quick and satisfying answer. Their beautiful pink hue also makes them perfect for parties, baby showers, or Valentine’s Day celebrations, adding a touch of charm to your dessert table.
Frequently Asked Questions About Strawberry Brownies:
While strawberry extract is used here to intensify the natural strawberry flavor, feel free to experiment with other extracts that complement the fruit. Lemon extract would add a bright, zesty counterpoint, creating a strawberry-lemonade vibe. Raspberry extract could deepen the berry notes, offering a richer, more complex fruit profile. Even orange extract could bring a subtle citrus twist. If you prefer a more understated strawberry flavor, you can simply omit the extract altogether and let the cake mix and preserves do the talking.
Absolutely! Adding baking chips is a fantastic way to introduce another layer of flavor and texture. White chocolate chips would create a wonderful creamy sweetness that pairs beautifully with strawberry. For a hint of classic chocolate, semi-sweet chocolate chips could transform these into a “chocolate-covered strawberry” inspired treat. You could also consider folding in a handful of chopped nuts for crunch, though this will alter the texture slightly. A sprinkle of freeze-dried strawberry pieces can also boost flavor and add visual appeal.
Yes, this recipe can easily be doubled to serve a larger crowd! If you decide to double the batch, I highly recommend switching from an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish to a standard 9×13-inch baking dish. When using a larger pan and double the batter, you will need to adjust the baking time accordingly. Keep a close eye on them; the baking time might increase by 5-10 minutes or more, so always rely on the toothpick test to ensure they are perfectly baked through.
Indeed, you can! Using a different cake mix will, of course, result in a different flavor profile, but it opens up a world of delicious possibilities. A white or vanilla cake mix would provide a neutral base, allowing the strawberry preserves and extract to truly shine as the primary flavor. For a rich, indulgent “chocolate-covered strawberry” experience, a chocolate cake mix would be an excellent choice, creating a decadent brownie with a hint of strawberry. Lemon cake mix could also create a vibrant and tangy combination with the strawberry elements.
To maintain their freshness, moisture, and delightful flavor, leftover Strawberry Brownies should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature. They will remain wonderfully soft and delicious for up to 3 days. If your kitchen is particularly warm, or if you prefer a firmer brownie, you can also store them in the refrigerator, which may extend their freshness slightly.
Absolutely! These Strawberry Brownies freeze exceptionally well. Once they are completely cooled (this is crucial to prevent ice crystals), you can wrap individual brownies or the whole slab tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature for a few hours, or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds for a warm, gooey treat.
Key Ingredients for Your Delicious Strawberry Brownies:
Crafting these delectable Strawberry Brownies requires just a handful of straightforward ingredients, many of which you likely already have on hand. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the way these core components come together to create something truly special. (For the full recipe and precise measurements, please refer to the recipe card below.)
- Strawberry Cake Mix: This is the hero ingredient that makes this recipe incredibly easy and ensures a consistent, delicious strawberry base. While I often reach for Duncan Hines, Pillsbury works just as wonderfully. Choose your favorite brand to start with a reliable foundation.
- Salted Butter: You might wonder about using salted butter in a sweet dessert, but that touch of salt actually plays a crucial role! It beautifully contrasts with the sweetness of the strawberries and sugar, enhancing all the flavors and preventing the brownies from tasting overly sweet. It also contributes to the moist, tender crumb of the brownies.
- Strawberry Extract: For an intense burst of strawberry flavor that truly makes these brownies sing, the extract is key. It amplifies the natural fruitiness from the cake mix and preserves, ensuring every bite is packed with berry goodness. If you can’t find it, don’t fret – the brownies will still be delightful, just with a milder strawberry essence.
- Strawberry Preserves: This ingredient is essential for both the brownie batter and the luscious glaze. It adds genuine fruit flavor and a lovely texture. High-quality strawberry jam or even jelly can be used as a substitute if preserves aren’t available, providing that sweet, fruity depth.
How to Make Perfect Strawberry Brownies: A Step-by-Step Guide
Creating these delightful strawberry brownies is a straightforward process that yields impressive results. Follow these simple steps for perfectly moist and flavorful treats every time.
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Preheat Oven. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, prepare an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish. Lightly spray the inside of the dish with nonstick cooking spray. This initial spray helps the parchment paper adhere better, preventing it from shifting when you add the batter. Next, line the bottom of the dish with parchment paper, ensuring it extends up at least two of the sides. This thoughtful step creates “handles” that will make lifting the cooled brownies out of the pan incredibly easy and mess-free. Set the prepared pan aside.
Step 2: Combine the Brownie Batter Ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, two large eggs, the melted salted butter, and the strawberry extract. Using a sturdy spoon or an electric mixer on low speed, mix these ingredients together until they are just combined and no dry streaks of cake mix remain. The resulting batter will be notably thick and somewhat dense – this is exactly the texture you’re looking for to achieve that classic chewy brownie consistency.
Step 3: Spread and Bake the Brownies. Carefully transfer the thick strawberry brownie batter into your prepared baking pan. Using an offset spatula or the back of a spoon, gently press and spread the batter evenly across the bottom of the pan, ensuring it reaches all corners. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 18 to 25 minutes. The ideal doneness is when a toothpick inserted into the center of the brownies comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached, but no wet batter. Remember that oven temperatures and baking times can vary greatly based on your specific oven type (electric, gas, convection) and even the material of your baking dish (metal, ceramic, Pyrex). Always trust your judgment and start checking at the lower end of the baking range to prevent overbaking.
Step 4: Cool Completely. Once baked, remove the pan from the oven. Carefully use the parchment paper “handles” to lift the entire slab of brownies out of the pan and transfer it to a wire cooling rack. Allow the brownies to cool completely on the rack before proceeding to the next step. This is a crucial step for achieving clean cuts and ensuring the glaze sets properly. Attempting to glaze warm brownies will result in a melted, runny mess.
Step 5: Prepare and Apply the Strawberry Glaze. While the brownies are cooling, prepare the sweet and tangy glaze. In a small bowl, combine the powdered sugar, strawberry preserves, and milk. Whisk these ingredients vigorously until they are thoroughly combined and you achieve a smooth, pourable glaze with no lumps. Once the brownies are completely cool, pour this vibrant pink glaze evenly over the entire surface. Use the back of a spoon or an offset spatula to gently spread the glaze from edge to edge, creating a beautiful, glossy finish.
Step 6: Cut, Serve, and Enjoy! Allow the glaze a few minutes to set slightly. Then, using a sharp knife (and wiping it clean between cuts for the neatest edges), slice the brownies into 9 generous large pieces or 12 smaller, more delicate squares. Arrange them on a platter and serve these irresistible Strawberry Brownies! They are perfect on their own, or you can add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat.
Craving More Irresistible Dessert Recipes?
If you’ve fallen in love with these Strawberry Brownies, you’ll be thrilled to discover more delightful recipes that promise to satisfy your sweet tooth. Explore these other fantastic brownie and dessert variations:
- The Best Turtle Brownies
- Peanut Butter Pie Brownies
- Lemon Brownies (made with cake mix)
- Homemade Lemon Brownies
- Oreo Cheesecake Brownies
- German Chocolate Brownies
- Fudgy Cream Cheese Brownies
- Knock You Naked Brownies
- Slutty Brownies
- Chocolate Chip Caramel Butter Bars
Easy Strawberry Brownies
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Ingredients
For the brownies:
- 1 box strawberry cake mix
- 2 large eggs
- ⅓ cup salted butter, melted (or 1/3 cup oil)
- 1 teaspoon strawberry extract (see notes below)
For the glaze:
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
- 2 Tablespoons strawberry preserves
- 1 ½ Tablespoons milk
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray, then line the bottom with parchment paper, ensuring it comes up at least two of the sides. This technique helps immensely with removing the brownies easily later on.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 box strawberry cake mix, 2 large eggs, 1/3 cup melted salted butter, and 1 teaspoon strawberry extract. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and the batter is very thick.
- Press the thick batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 18-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Be aware that oven times can vary; please refer to the notes below for more details on baking consistency.
- Remove the pan from the oven and carefully transfer the brownies (using the parchment paper) to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is essential before glazing.
- Once the brownies are entirely cool, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together ¾ cup powdered sugar, 2 Tablespoons strawberry preserves, and 1 ½ Tablespoons milk until smooth and fully combined.
- Pour the prepared glaze evenly over the cooled brownies and spread it smoothly across the top using an offset spatula or the back of a spoon.
- Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes, then cut the brownies into 9 large pieces or 12 smaller squares. Serve and enjoy your homemade strawberry delights!
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Notes for Perfect Baking
- For additional substitutions or answers to common questions, please refer to the Frequently Asked Questions and ingredient list sections provided above.
- If you plan to double this brownie recipe, it is essential to use a larger 9×13-inch baking dish instead of the smaller 8×8-inch pan. Remember that doubling the recipe and using a larger pan will necessitate an adjustment to the baking time. Start checking for doneness a few minutes earlier than you would for a single batch and continue baking until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Important Note on Oven Times: Baking times for any dessert can vary significantly due to several factors. The type of oven you use (electric, gas, or convection) and the material of your baking pan (metal versus ceramic or Pyrex) all impact how quickly and evenly your brownies bake. For this particular recipe, a metal pan was used. The position of your oven rack can also make a difference. Always begin checking your brownies at the lowest recommended baking time. Use your best judgment and familiarity with your own oven to determine when they are perfectly baked. The toothpick test is your most reliable indicator.
- The initial spray of nonstick cooking spray before placing the parchment paper is a simple yet effective trick. It helps the parchment paper adhere firmly to the pan, preventing it from sliding around or bubbling up when you’re spreading the thick brownie batter, ensuring a smooth, even layer.
- Leftover Strawberry Brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, maintaining their delightful moistness. For longer storage, they can be frozen for up to 3 months when properly wrapped in an airtight container or freezer bag.
Nutrition Information (Estimated Per Serving)
Nutritional Disclaimer
“The Country Cook” is not a registered dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared on this page is an estimate based on common ingredient values. If precise calorie counts and other nutritional values are crucial for your dietary needs, we highly recommend that you independently calculate these values using an online nutritional calculator with the specific brands of ingredients you use, as values can vary significantly.