If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that brings a smile to everyone’s face, then these Strawberry Brownies are just the ticket! They’re not only bursting with berry goodness but also incredibly simple to whip up. I love making them for family gatherings or even on those busy weeknights when I crave something sweet without spending hours in the kitchen. The vibrant pink hue makes these brownies perfect for celebrations, and trust me, they taste as good as they look!

This recipe is special because it starts with a strawberry cake mix, which means you get all that strawberry flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or enjoying them solo, these Strawberry Brownies will surely brighten your day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to prepare: You can have these brownies ready in just about 25 minutes, perfect for last-minute cravings.
Family-friendly: Kids love the sweet strawberry flavor and bright color; it’s a hit with everyone!
Flexible ingredients: You can easily adapt this recipe based on what you have at home—it’s so forgiving!
Deliciously moist: Thanks to the cake mix, these brownies are incredibly soft and flavorful.
Perfect for any occasion: Birthdays, potlucks, or just a treat for yourself—these brownies fit right in!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making these Strawberry Brownies is a breeze! With simple and wholesome ingredients, you’ll find everything you need right in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll gather:

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

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to experiment and make it your own with these fun variations:

Add chocolate chips: Toss in some semi-sweet chocolate chips for an extra layer of flavor.
Try different preserves: Swap out strawberry preserves for raspberry or blueberry to change things up.
Make it gluten-free: Use a gluten-free cake mix if you’re accommodating dietary preferences.
Top with whipped cream: Serve warm brownies topped with dairy-free whipped cream for an indulgent treat.

How to Make Strawberry Brownies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First things first, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This step is crucial because it ensures even baking. While that’s heating up, spray an 8×8 pan with nonstick spray or line it with foil for easy removal later. I like using parchment paper—it makes cleanup a breeze!

Step 2: Mix & Bake

In a large bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract. This is where the magic happens! Mix until everything is well combined; whether you use a spoon or mixer doesn’t matter—both work great! Once mixed, press the batter into the prepared pan evenly. Bake for 18-22 minutes until they look just done—remember not to overbake! Let those beauties cool completely before cutting them into squares.

Now you’re all set to enjoy these amazing Strawberry Brownies! They’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser every time. Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Strawberry Brownies

Making Strawberry Brownies is a breeze, and with a few handy tips, you can elevate them to the next level!

Choose the right cake mix: Opting for a cake mix with pudding in the mix (like Pillsbury) ensures a moist texture and rich flavor. This small detail makes a significant difference in the final product.
Don’t overbake: Keeping an eye on your brownies is key! Bake them until they’re just done, as overbaking can lead to dry brownies. The edges should be set, but the center will continue to firm up as they cool.
Cool completely before frosting: Allow your brownies to cool entirely before adding any toppings or frosting. This helps prevent melty messes and allows flavors to meld perfectly.
Experiment with mix-ins: Feel free to personalize your brownies by adding chocolate chips, nuts, or even fresh strawberries for extra texture and flavor. These additions can take your dessert from good to spectacular!
Store properly: To keep your brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage; just thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Strawberry Brownies

These delightful Strawberry Brownies are sure to impress! Here are some fun ideas for presenting this sweet treat at your next gathering.

Garnishes

Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a lovely touch of sweetness and visual appeal.
Fresh strawberries: Top each brownie with fresh sliced strawberries or whole berries for a burst of color and freshness that enhances the strawberry flavor.
Whipped cream: A dollop of non-dairy whipped cream brings creaminess and elevates the dessert experience.

Side Dishes

Vanilla ice cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with warm brownies, creating a delicious contrast in temperatures and flavors.
Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits balances out the sweetness of the brownies while adding a bright, healthy touch.
Chocolate sauce: Drizzling some rich chocolate sauce over the top adds indulgence and decadence that chocolate lovers will appreciate!
Herbal tea: Serve alongside a soothing herbal tea like chamomile or mint for a comforting end to your meal.

Enjoy these Strawberry Brownies as they are or get creative with these serving suggestions—either way, you’re bound to delight those you share them with!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Strawberry Brownies are perfect for meal prep, making them a delightful treat you can enjoy throughout the week. Whether you’re planning for a party or just want something sweet on hand, these brownies hold up beautifully!

Storing Leftovers

Keep your brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
For longer freshness, store them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Ensure the brownies are fully cooled before sealing them to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing

Cut the brownies into squares and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight freezer bag or container.
They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label with the date!

Reheating

To enjoy your frozen brownies, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator.
You can warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds before serving for that fresh-baked taste!
Alternatively, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.

FAQs

Have questions about these delicious Strawberry Brownies? Here are some common inquiries!

Can I use a different cake mix for Strawberry Brownies?

Absolutely! While strawberry cake mix gives these brownies their unique flavor, you can experiment with other cake mixes like vanilla or chocolate for different variations.

Are these Strawberry Brownies easy to make?

Yes! These Strawberry Brownies are incredibly simple and quick to prepare. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a delicious dessert ready in no time!

How do I ensure my Strawberry Brownies stay moist?

To keep your Strawberry Brownies moist, avoid overbaking them. Check for doneness around the 18-minute mark and let them cool completely before storing.

Can I add toppings to my Strawberry Brownies?

Definitely! Feel free to top your brownies with fresh strawberries, whipped topping made from coconut cream, or even a drizzle of dairy-free chocolate sauce for an extra special touch.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful Strawberry Brownies! They’re not only easy and quick but also bursting with flavor that will surely impress friends and family. Enjoy every bite and feel free to share your creations with me; I’d love to hear how they turned out. Happy baking!