If you’re looking to bring a fresh, fruity twist to a classic treat, this Strawberry Brownies Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine rich, fudgy brownies bursting with the natural sweetness and vibrant flavor of fresh strawberries, complemented by a hint of cocoa and a touch of strawberry jam for that extra oomph. These brownies manage to balance indulgence and freshness beautifully, creating a dessert that’s both comforting and unexpectedly bright. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or a cozy night in, this recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite that everyone asks for again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the secret to nailing this Strawberry Brownies Recipe. Each one is simple yet essential, playing a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of fudgy texture, sweet strawberry flavor, and that classic brownie richness.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup): Melted to add richness and moisture without overpowering the sweet elements.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the batter, helping to create that signature chewy brownie crust.
- Large eggs (2): Bind all the ingredients together while adding structure and tenderness.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, aromatic boost.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (1/3 cup): Brings that deep, chocolatey intensity essential to any brownie.
- All-purpose flour (1/2 cup): Provides the framework for the brownies without making them cakey.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances the chocolate and strawberry flavors.
- Baking powder (1/4 teaspoon): Just enough to give a slight lift without compromising the fudgy texture.
- Fresh strawberries, mashed (1 cup): The star ingredient adds natural sweetness, moisture, and that unmistakable pink hue.
- Strawberry jam (1/4 cup): Concentrates the strawberry flavor and adds a luscious sticky texture inside the brownies.
- Mini chocolate chips (1/4 cup, optional): Sprinkle them on top if you want little pockets of melty chocolate for an extra indulgent touch.
How to Make Strawberry Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing or lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper ensures the brownies come out easily without sticking. This setup step might seem small, but it makes cleanup a breeze and preserves the brownie’s beautiful edges.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until smooth and glossy. This combination forms the luscious base that gives the brownies their tender crumb. Then add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly so each element contributes to a creamy, unctuous batter.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift or whisk together the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Mixing these dry ingredients separately helps evenly distribute everything, ensuring each bite has balanced flavor and no clumps of cocoa or flour sneak through.
Step 4: Bring it All Together
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into your wet mixture, stirring carefully until the batter is smooth and fully combined. Now, gently fold in your mashed fresh strawberries and strawberry jam. This step blends the natural strawberry sweetness and tang right into that classic chocolaty goodness, creating the luscious, pink-speckled batter you’re craving.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly. If you’re using mini chocolate chips, sprinkle them evenly on top now to add pockets of extra melting delight. Bake for 25-30 minutes, checking with a toothpick towards the end—it should come out with just a few moist crumbs clinging on for that perfect fudgy texture.
Step 6: Cool and Cut
Patience is key here! Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before slicing into 16 squares. Cooling helps the strawberries set within the batter, giving you those perfect, clean edges and a fudgy center that melts in your mouth.
How to Serve Strawberry Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the Strawberry Brownies Recipe, consider a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted white chocolate for a beautiful contrast. Fresh sliced strawberries or a sprig of mint on top add a refreshing pop of color and freshness that will wow your guests.
Side Dishes
These brownies pair wonderfully with classic vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the rich fruitiness. For an adult twist, serve with a glass of chilled rosé or a fruity dessert wine to complement the strawberry notes perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the traditional square! Use cookie cutters to create fun shapes for parties, or serve brownie bites on skewers alongside fresh berries for an interactive dessert platter. Layer brownies in a trifle with whipped cream and strawberry slices for an impressive showstopper dessert.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Strawberry Brownies Recipe fresh by storing leftover pieces in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Their moist texture holds well, and the strawberry flavor only deepens over time, making them even more delicious.
Freezing
If you want to extend their shelf life, wrap brownies individually or in squares tightly with plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They freeze beautifully for up to two months, allowing you to enjoy these fruity treats long after baking day.
Reheating
To enjoy frozen or stored brownies warm, microwave a single piece for 10-15 seconds or heat briefly in a low oven. This brings back the fudgy softness and wakes up the vibrant strawberry flavor like they were freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Frozen strawberries can be used if fresh ones aren’t available, but be sure to thaw and drain them well before mashing to prevent excess moisture from making the batter too runny.
What if I don’t have strawberry jam? Can I substitute it?
Yes! You can replace strawberry jam with raspberry or cherry preserves for a similar fruity boost, or even a bit of honey for additional sweetness and moisture.
Are these brownies gluten-free?
This particular Strawberry Brownies Recipe calls for all-purpose flour, so it’s not gluten-free as written. However, you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends designed for baking to accommodate dietary needs.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just double all ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan, adjusting baking time as needed and checking with a toothpick for doneness.
Why are my brownies coming out cakey instead of fudgy?
For fudgy brownies, ensure you don’t overmix once the flour is added and watch your baking time closely. Overbaking can dry them out, so pulling them from the oven when a toothpick shows moist crumbs is key.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the way fruit and chocolate come together in this Strawberry Brownies Recipe. It’s a delightful twist on a much-loved classic that’s sure to brighten up any occasion. I can’t wait for you to try baking these yourself and experience that magical balance of fudgy, fruity, and sweet for yourself. Trust me, once you do, this recipe will hold a permanent spot in your dessert lineup.
Print
Strawberry Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these moist and fruity Strawberry Brownies featuring a rich cocoa base enriched with real mashed strawberries and a swirl of strawberry jam for an extra burst of flavor. This recipe combines the classic chocolate brownie with fresh strawberry goodness, making it a perfect treat for berry lovers and chocolate enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Brownie Batter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
Strawberry Mix
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, mashed
- 1/4 cup strawberry jam or preserves
Optional Topping
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the brownies.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and well blended, forming the sweet, buttery base.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the unsweetened cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder. This ensures even distribution of leavening agents and cocoa.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until the batter is uniform and free of lumps.
- Fold in Strawberries and Jam: Carefully fold in the mashed fresh strawberries and the strawberry jam. These add moisture and a fruity burst that complement the chocolate.
- Pour Batter and Add Topping: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. If using, sprinkle mini chocolate chips on top for extra flavor and texture.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The brownies are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan to set properly before cutting into 16 squares. Serve and enjoy your delicious strawberry-infused brownies.
Notes
- Ensure strawberries are well mashed to evenly distribute flavor throughout the brownie batter.
- You can substitute fresh strawberries with frozen ones if fresh are unavailable, but thaw and drain excess liquid first.
- Mini chocolate chips are optional but add a delightful chocolate texture to the topping.
- For a more intense strawberry flavor, add an extra tablespoon of strawberry jam within the batter.
- Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for extended freshness.
- Allow brownies to cool completely before cutting to prevent crumbling.
