If you love the rich, fudgy goodness of brownies combined with the fresh, sweet tang of berries, you are going to adore this Strawberry Brownies Recipe. It’s a delightful twist that elevates the classic chocolate brownie into a vibrant, fruity treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Imagine biting into a moist, chocolatey square that surprises you with bursts of real strawberry flavor, both from fresh fruit and luscious strawberry jam. Whether you’re making this for a family gathering or a cozy night in, these strawberry brownies will quickly become one of your favorite homemade desserts.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Strawberry Brownies Recipe lies in its simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in balancing the chocolate and strawberry flavors while contributing to the irresistible texture and color you’ll love.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted): Adds richness and moisture, creating a tender crumb.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens and helps build the chewy texture.
- Large eggs (2): Bind the batter and add structure.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor profile and rounds out the sweetness.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (1/3 cup): Provides the deep chocolate taste essential for brownies.
- All-purpose flour (1/2 cup): Offers structure while keeping the brownies tender.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances the chocolate flavor.
- Baking powder (1/4 teaspoon): Gives a slight lift for a perfect brownie texture.
- Fresh strawberries (1 cup, mashed): Infuses freshness and natural strawberry flavor into the batter.
- Strawberry jam or preserves (1/4 cup): Intensifies the strawberry taste and adds lovely moistness.
- Mini chocolate chips (1/4 cup, optional): For extra bursts of chocolatey goodness on top.
How to Make Strawberry Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Begin by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper, which makes removing the brownies easier and helps achieve perfect edges.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes smooth and glossy. This smooth blend is the foundation for that fudgy texture we all crave. Next, incorporate the eggs and vanilla extract, beating well to combine everything evenly.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. This blending ensures your brownies bake evenly without pockets of dry ingredients. Gradually fold these dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently so the texture stays light yet cohesive.
Step 4: Add Strawberries and Jam
Now comes the star of your Strawberry Brownies Recipe: the mashed fresh strawberries and strawberry jam. Carefully fold them into the batter. Their natural sweetness and moisture will add delightful flavor and a beautiful hint of pink swirled through the chocolate base.
Step 5: Bake the Batter
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan. For an extra touch of indulgence, sprinkle mini chocolate chips across the top. Pop the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached — perfectly fudgy!
Step 6: Cool and Cut
Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting. This resting time ensures they hold together nicely and slice cleanly. Then, cut into 16 delicious squares and prepare to impress everyone with your baking skills!
How to Serve Strawberry Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes is a fun way to personalize your Strawberry Brownies Recipe. Fresh strawberry slices or a dusting of powdered sugar add a pretty touch, while a drizzle of melted white chocolate or a dollop of whipped cream can bring an extra layer of indulgence.
Side Dishes
These brownies are perfect on their own but can be complemented beautifully by sides like vanilla ice cream or a scoop of fresh yogurt for a cool contrast. A fruit salad or a hot cup of coffee also pairs wonderfully to round out the experience.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress at your next party, cut the brownies into bite-sized squares and serve on a decorative platter with small forks or toothpicks. Alternatively, try layering brownie pieces with fresh strawberries and cream in a glass for a stunning dessert parfait that everyone will ask for seconds of.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your leftover strawberry brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps them soft and moist without drying out the delicate strawberry-infused batter.
Freezing
You can freeze brownies easily. Wrap them tightly with plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge or for a few hours at room temperature.
Reheating
Warm your brownies slightly in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to revive that freshly-baked texture and bring out the gooey strawberry and chocolate flavors. Avoid overheating to keep them perfectly fudgy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh for this recipe?
Yes, you can! Just thaw and mash them well to remove excess liquid before adding to the batter so it doesn’t get too watery. Frozen strawberries still provide great flavor and texture.
Are these brownies gluten-free?
This particular Strawberry Brownies Recipe uses all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. You can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend, but results may vary slightly in texture.
Can I add nuts to this recipe?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a great crunch and complement both the chocolate and strawberry flavors beautifully.
What makes these brownies different from regular brownies?
The addition of fresh strawberries and strawberry jam brings a fruity brightness and moisture that sets these brownies apart from traditional chocolate-only versions.
How long do these brownies stay fresh?
When stored properly in an airtight container, these strawberry brownies stay fresh for up to three days at room temperature, making them a great make-ahead treat.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Brownies Recipe is an absolute delight that combines the comfort of chocolate brownies with the fresh, sunny flavor of strawberries. Whether you’re a longtime brownie lover or just looking to try something new and exciting, these are sure to brighten your dessert table and your day. So grab some fresh strawberries and give this recipe a try—you won’t regret treating yourself and your loved ones to these luscious, chocolate-strawberry squares!
Print
Strawberry Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these moist and fruity Strawberry Brownies combining rich cocoa with fresh strawberries and strawberry jam for a unique twist on the classic treat. Perfectly baked to achieve a fudgy texture with optional mini chocolate chips for extra decadence.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 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
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, mashed
- 1/4 cup strawberry jam or preserves
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8×8-inch baking pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate the eggs one at a time along with the vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly to combine all wet ingredients evenly.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the unsweetened cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until fully incorporated.
- Fold in Strawberries and Jam: Carefully fold the mashed fresh strawberries and strawberry jam into the batter, distributing them evenly without overmixing.
- Transfer to Pan: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly with a spatula for uniform thickness.
- Add Chocolate Chips: Optionally, sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the top of the batter to enhance flavor and texture.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs attached.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan before cutting into 16 squares and serving.
Notes
- Use ripe and sweet strawberries for the best flavor.
- You can customize by adding nuts or other berries if desired.
- For fudgier brownies, avoid overbaking and check at 25 minutes.
- Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- Allow brownies to cool completely before slicing to achieve clean cuts.
