These Strawberry Brownies are a delightful treat that will brighten any occasion. With their vibrant pink color and rich strawberry flavor, they are perfect for parties, picnics, or simply enjoying at home. This easy recipe uses a strawberry cake mix and just a handful of ingredients, making it an effortless dessert to whip up when you’re short on time. You’ll love how quickly they come together, and they are sure to impress friends and family alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, these brownies come together in no time.
Deliciously Flavorful: The use of strawberry cake mix ensures every bite is bursting with fruity goodness.
Versatile Treat: Perfect for birthdays, gatherings, or just a sweet snack at home.
Colorful Presentation: These pink brownies add a fun pop of color to your dessert table.
Simple Ingredients: Most items are pantry staples, making it easy to whip them up whenever the craving strikes.

Tools and Preparation

To make these delicious Strawberry Brownies, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Measuring cups
Measuring spoons
Rubber spatula
8×8 baking pan

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: A large bowl is essential for combining all the ingredients thoroughly.
Rubber spatula: Great for scraping down the sides of the bowl and ensuring everything is well mixed.
Baking pan: An 8×8 pan helps achieve the perfect thickness for your brownies.

Ingredients

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

Ingredients:
– 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. You can also use parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix & Bake

In a large bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. You can use either a spoon or mixer; both work well. Once mixed thoroughly, press the batter into the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 18–22 minutes until just done. Allow them to cool completely before cutting into squares.

Enjoy these decadent Strawberry Brownies as an easy yet impressive dessert that everyone will love!

How to Serve Strawberry Brownies

Strawberry Brownies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply indulging at home, these brownies can be paired with different accompaniments to enhance their flavor and presentation.

A La Mode

Serve warm Strawberry Brownies with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream for a delicious contrast of temperatures and flavors.

Whipped Cream Delight

Top your brownies with freshly whipped cream and a sprinkle of fresh strawberries for an elegant touch.

Chocolate Drizzle

Drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over the brownies to add an extra layer of sweetness and visual appeal.

Fruit Garnish

Serve your brownies with a side of mixed berries such as raspberries, blueberries, or more strawberries for a refreshing complement.

Coffee Pairing

Enjoy your Strawberry Brownies with a cup of hot coffee or iced coffee to balance the sweetness and enhance the dessert experience.

How to Perfect Strawberry Brownies

To make your Strawberry Brownies even better, consider these tips for perfecting the recipe.

Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality strawberry cake mix and preserves to ensure rich flavor and texture.
Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the baking time; removing them just before they’re fully done keeps them moist.
Allow Cooling Time: Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting to achieve cleaner edges.
Experiment with Mix-Ins: Consider adding chocolate chips or nuts for added texture and flavor variations.
Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness and moisture.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Brownies

Pairing side dishes with your Strawberry Brownies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

Vanilla Ice Cream – A classic pairing that balances the sweetness of the brownies.
Fresh Fruit Salad – A light and refreshing option that adds natural sweetness and acidity.
Chocolate Mousse – Rich and creamy, this indulgent side complements the berry flavors beautifully.
Coconut Whipped Cream – A dairy-free alternative that adds a tropical flair and lightness.
Almond Biscotti – Crunchy biscotti provides a satisfying contrast to the soft brownie texture.
Caramel Sauce – Drizzling warm caramel over brownies adds an irresistible sweetness.
Chia Seed Pudding – A nutritious side that offers a different texture while remaining light.
Tea or Coffee – Serving with a warm beverage creates a cozy atmosphere perfect for enjoying dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Strawberry Brownies, it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to dense brownies. Stir just until combined for a lighter texture.
Skipping the cooling step: Cutting into warm brownies can make them fall apart. Allow them to cool completely before slicing.
Using the wrong pan size: A different size pan can alter baking time and texture. Stick with an 8×8 pan for best results.
Not checking for doneness: Every oven is different. Use a toothpick to check if they are done; it should come out with a few moist crumbs.
Ignoring optional ingredients: Optional ingredients like cream cheese or strawberry preserves can enhance flavor and texture. Don’t skip them unless necessary!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to avoid sticking.

Freezing Strawberry Brownies

Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap before placing them in the container for easy access.

Reheating Strawberry Brownies

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place brownies on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
Microwave: Heat one brownie at a time on a microwave-safe plate for about 15-20 seconds. Watch closely to prevent overheating.
Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat and cover with a lid. Warm for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Strawberry Brownies?

Strawberry Brownies are a delightful dessert made using strawberry cake mix, which gives them a unique flavor and vibrant color.

Can I use fresh strawberries in this recipe?

Yes! You can fold in chopped fresh strawberries into the batter for added freshness and flavor.

How do I know when my Strawberry Brownies are done?

Use a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, indicating they are perfectly baked.

Can I customize my Strawberry Brownies?

Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or even swirl in some extra strawberry preserves for additional flavor.

How should I serve Strawberry Brownies?

These brownies pair well with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. They also make great snacks or desserts for gatherings!

Final Thoughts

Strawberry Brownies are not only easy to make but also offer a fun twist on traditional brownies. Their vibrant color and delicious flavor make them perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize them with your favorite toppings or mix-ins, making this recipe versatile enough for everyone’s taste!