Welcome to the sweet, fruity world of Strawberry Brownies! If you’ve never experienced the magic of chewy brownies with the playful burst of berry flavor and a gorgeous pink glaze, you’re truly in for a treat. This is a recipe I always reach for when I need something easy, fun, and guaranteed to delight both kids and adults. Plus, it looks stunning on any dessert table, turning simple ingredients into a dessert that screams celebration. Trust me, one bite of these Strawberry Brownies and you’ll want to share them at every gathering!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Strawberry Brownies is in how effortless they are—each ingredient brings something special to the table, whether it’s color, sweetness, or that wonderful berry flavor. Simple, accessible items transform into a dessert masterpiece that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
- Strawberry cake mix (15.25 oz): This is the secret weapon for easy strawberry flavor and that signature hue, all in one box!
- Large eggs (2): The eggs bind everything together, giving your brownies structure and a chewy, fudgy texture.
- Vegetable oil (1/3 cup): For moist, rich brownies—skip the butter for that classic mouthfeel.
- Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): A dash of vanilla enhances the sweetness and rounds out the strawberry flavor.
- Powdered sugar (1 cup): Essential for the dreamy glaze that tops these brownies with a sugary finish.
- Milk (2–3 tablespoons): Thins out the glaze to just the right pourable consistency—use a little more or less to your liking.
- Strawberry extract or puree (1/2 teaspoon, optional): For an extra kick of real strawberry flavor in the glaze, highly recommended if you love a bold berry taste!
- Pink or red food coloring (optional): To dial up the color and create brownies that look as vibrant as they taste.
How to Make Strawberry Brownies
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Set the stage for baking success! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy brownie removal. Trust me, lining the pan makes for a much smoother, less sticky clean-up job later.
Step 2: Mix the Brownie Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Stir vigorously until you have a thick, glossy batter—don’t worry, it’s supposed to be pretty dense. If you want extra berry action, add a tablespoon or two of strawberry puree or extract now. This is where you’ll start to fall in love with that heavenly strawberry scent!
Step 3: Spread and Bake
Scrape the batter into your prepared pan. Use a spatula to smooth it out so it’s evenly distributed. Pop the pan into the oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes, until the edges are just turning golden and a toothpick poked into the center comes out mostly clean (a few crumbs are totally fine). This timing keeps the brownies moist and fudgy!
Step 4: Cool Completely
Resist the urge to slice right away—cooling is key for perfect Strawberry Brownies! Let the brownies cool entirely in the pan. This helps them set properly and makes glazing (and slicing) a total breeze.
Step 5: Make the Glaze
While the brownies are cooling, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and strawberry extract or puree (if using) in a small bowl. The glaze should be smooth and pourable, but not too runny—add milk a little at a time. If you’re going for that perfect pink, a couple of drops of food coloring work wonders!
Step 6: Glaze, Set, and Slice
Drizzle that gorgeous glaze all over the cooled brownies and spread it gently with a spoon or spatula. Let it set for about 10 minutes (pro tip: pop the pan in the fridge to speed things up), then slice into neat squares. Look at those pretty Strawberry Brownies!
How to Serve Strawberry Brownies
Garnishes
Take your Strawberry Brownies to the next level by showering them with festive garnishes. A sprinkle of pink or rainbow sprinkles looks super fun, while fresh diced strawberries add a burst of tartness and a juicy, irresistible pop. If you’re feeling fancy, a little dusting of powdered sugar right before serving never fails to impress!
Side Dishes
Pair your Strawberry Brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a classic duo. For a brunch or afternoon tea, serve alongside bowls of fresh berries or a tropical fruit salad—the contrast makes the sweet richness of the brownies really sing.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your treat into a showstopper by stacking the brownies in tiers for a dessert centerpiece, or nestle them in decorative cupcake liners for party-ready serving. You can even cut them into hearts or stars for holidays and celebrations. Use edible flowers and pastel napkins for a touch of whimsy—perfect for birthdays or bridal showers!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Strawberry Brownies will stay fresh and chewy stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If your kitchen is particularly warm, stash them in the fridge to keep the glaze from getting too soft. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Freezing
These brownies freeze surprisingly well! Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, then pop them into a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep beautifully for up to two months. When cravings hit, you’re only a thaw away from freshly baked nostalgia.
Reheating
If you like your brownies a little warm and gooey, simply microwave a square for 10-15 seconds. If frozen, let them come to room temperature first. Warm brownies with melting glaze are an indulgent delight, especially alongside a scoop of cold vanilla ice cream.
FAQs
Can I make Strawberry Brownies without cake mix?
While this recipe is all about simplicity, you can start from scratch with flour, sugar, baking powder, and freeze-dried strawberries if you like a homemade challenge! But the cake mix keeps things fast and foolproof, especially for last-minute cravings or beginner bakers.
How do I know when the brownies are done baking?
Your brownies are ready when the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs—don’t wait for it to be totally clean, or you might overbake and lose that dreamy fudgy texture!
What can I use instead of strawberry extract in the glaze?
If you don’t have strawberry extract, a couple spoonfuls of strawberry puree works perfectly, or even a little raspberry or cherry extract in a pinch. The main goal is to amplify that fruity flavor in your glaze.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just use a 9×13-inch pan and double all the ingredients. Keep an eye on the baking time—check for doneness at around 25 minutes and adjust as needed for your oven.
Are Strawberry Brownies suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is entirely vegetarian as written. Just make sure your cake mix doesn’t contain any animal-derived additives if that’s a concern, and you’re good to go!
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited as I am to whip up a batch of Strawberry Brownies! With their irresistible color, fruity flavor, and playful glaze, they’re guaranteed to put a smile on everyone’s face. Give them a try and let your kitchen be filled with sweet strawberry joy!
Print
Strawberry Brownies Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 9 brownies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these delightful Strawberry Brownies made with a strawberry cake mix base and topped with a sweet glaze. These vibrant pink treats are perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations.
Ingredients
Brownies:
- 1 box strawberry cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon strawberry extract or puree (optional)
- pink or red food coloring (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8×8-inch baking pan.
- Mix the batter: In a large bowl, combine cake mix, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract. Spread the batter in the pan.
- Bake: Bake for 18–22 minutes until edges are slightly browned and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Make the glaze: Mix powdered sugar, milk, and strawberry extract. Add food coloring if desired.
- Glaze and serve: Drizzle glaze over cooled brownies, let it set, then slice and enjoy.
Notes
- Enhance strawberry flavor with additional puree or extract.
- Top with diced strawberries or sprinkles for extra flair.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 190mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
