If you’re looking for a dessert that’s quick, easy, and bursting with flavor, then these Strawberry Brownies are just what you need! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve made these delightful treats for family gatherings and busy weeknights. With just a few simple ingredients, they come together in no time, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re treating yourself after a long day or whipping up something sweet for friends, these brownies will surely impress!

What makes this Strawberry Brownies recipe so special is its vibrant pink color and the delightful strawberry flavor that shines through. The combination of cake mix and a few pantry staples creates a moist, fudgy brownie that everyone loves. Plus, they’re super fun to make with kids or friends—there’s something magical about baking together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: You can whip these up in just 25 minutes from start to finish!
Family-Friendly: Kids will adore the sweet strawberry flavor and bright pink color.
Versatile Treat: Perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or simply satisfying a sweet tooth.
No Special Ingredients Needed: Just grab a box of cake mix and some common pantry items.
Deliciously Fun: These brownies are not only tasty but also visually appealing!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making these Strawberry Brownies is as simple as pie (or should I say brownie?). You likely have most of these wholesome ingredients in your kitchen already! Let’s gather what we need.

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)

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!)

Variations

The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with it. Here are some delicious variations you might enjoy:

Add Chocolate Chips: Toss in some dark or white chocolate chips to make them extra indulgent.
Mix in Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a wonderful crunch.
Use Different Preserves: Swap out strawberry preserves for raspberry or blueberry for a unique twist.
Frost It Up: Top with a simple cream cheese frosting for an extra layer of sweetness.

How to Make Strawberry Brownies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This step is crucial because it ensures your brownies bake evenly. While that’s heating up, prepare an 8×8 pan by spraying it with nonstick spray or lining it with foil.

Step 2: Mix Your Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract. Whether you use a spoon or mixer doesn’t matter—the goal is to blend everything until smooth. Press this lovely pink batter into your prepared pan. Don’t worry if it seems thick; that’s just how it’s meant to be!

Step 3: Bake Away!

Pop those beauties into the oven and let them bake for about 18-22 minutes. You want them to be set but still soft in the middle—just like a good brownie should be! Once done, let them cool completely before adding any frosting or toppings.

With these steps complete, you’ll have delicious Strawberry Brownies ready to treat yourself and others! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Strawberry Brownies

Making Strawberry Brownies is a breeze, and with a few helpful tips, you can ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

Use fresh ingredients: Always check the expiration dates on your cake mix and other ingredients. Fresh ingredients ensure better flavor and texture in your brownies.
Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing just until combined helps keep the brownies soft and chewy. Overmixing can lead to a denser texture that isn’t as enjoyable.
Check for doneness with a toothpick: Insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies about 5 minutes before the recommended baking time. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they’re done!
Let them cool completely: Allowing your brownies to cool in the pan will help them set properly. This prevents them from being too gooey when you cut into them.
Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add different extracts or toppings! A little almond extract or some chopped strawberries mixed in can take these brownies to another level.

How to Serve Strawberry Brownies

These Strawberry Brownies are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them perfect for any occasion! Here are some delightful ways to present this sweet treat.

Garnishes

Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a light and airy touch that complements the sweetness of the brownies beautifully.
Fresh strawberries: Sliced fresh strawberries on top or alongside your brownies enhance their strawberry flavor and add a pop of color.

Side Dishes

Vanilla ice cream: The creamy richness of vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with warm Strawberry Brownies, creating an irresistible contrast.
Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits balances out the sweetness of the brownies while adding a nutritious element to your dessert spread.
Chocolate sauce: Drizzling chocolate sauce over the top of your brownies creates a decadent treat that chocolate lovers will adore!
Coffee or tea: Serving these brownies alongside a cup of coffee or herbal tea elevates the dessert experience, making it perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in.

Enjoy making and serving these delightful Strawberry Brownies; they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Strawberry Brownies are perfect for meal prep! You can whip them up ahead of time and store them for later enjoyment, making them a delightful treat whenever you need something sweet.

Storing Leftovers

Allow the brownies to cool completely before storing.
Place in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
For longer freshness, store in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

Cut the brownies into squares before freezing for easy serving.
Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Label with the date so you know when you made them!

Reheating

To enjoy warm brownies, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Place the brownies on a baking sheet and cover with aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about these delicious Strawberry Brownies.

Can I use a different cake mix to make Strawberry Brownies?

Absolutely! While this recipe features strawberry cake mix, feel free to experiment with other flavors like vanilla or chocolate. Just adjust any add-ins accordingly!

How do I know when my Strawberry Brownies are done baking?

Your Strawberry Brownies will be done when they are set around the edges but still slightly soft in the center. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.

Can I add other ingredients to my Strawberry Brownies?

Definitely! Add-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or even fresh strawberries can enhance your Strawberry Brownies. Just keep in mind that additional ingredients may affect baking time slightly.

How can I make my Strawberry Brownies more festive?

You can top your brownies with whipped cream or sprinkles for special occasions. Feel free to serve them with fresh strawberries on the side as well!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful Strawberry Brownies! They’re not just quick and easy; they’re bursting with flavor and sweetness that everyone will love. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a celebration with friends, these brownies will surely bring smiles all around. Enjoy every bite, and happy baking!