EASY STRAWBERRY BROWNIES

Sometimes you just want a simple dessert that feels fun and homemade, and these strawberry brownies are exactly that. I made them when I was craving something sweet but different from the usual chocolate brownies, and they turned out soft, moist, and full of strawberry flavor. They’re easy to make, pretty to look at, and perfect when you want a treat that feels special without any extra effort.

Why This Recipe Will Be Your New Favorite

These brownies combine the cozy richness of a brownie with the bright, juicy flavor of strawberries, making them perfect for sharing or savoring slowly. Trust me, you’re going to love this, because they feel playful and indulgent without being heavy. This one’s a total game-changer when you want a dessert that feels fresh, colorful, and guaranteed to make people smile.

Behind the Recipe

This recipe came from my love of strawberry desserts and my constant craving for brownies, and one day I decided they didn’t need to be separate. I was inspired by childhood strawberry treats and the smell of brownies baking in the oven, and I wanted something that felt nostalgic but new at the same time. Let me tell you, it’s worth every bite, especially when you cut into that soft pink layer.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients work together to create a moist, tender brownie with a gentle strawberry flavor and a beautiful blush color that feels instantly inviting.

1. Unsalted Butter: 1 cup melted, provides richness and keeps the brownies moist and fudgy.
2. Granulated Sugar: 1 1/2 cups, adds sweetness and helps create a soft, tender crumb.
3. Eggs: 3 large, bind the batter and give structure while keeping the texture chewy.
4. Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons, enhances sweetness and rounds out the strawberry flavor.
5. All Purpose Flour: 1 3/4 cups, forms the base of the brownies and gives them structure.
6. Strawberry Puree: 1 cup smooth, adds natural strawberry flavor and a soft pink hue.
7. Baking Powder: 1 teaspoon, gives the brownies a gentle lift without making them cakey.
8. Salt: 1/4 teaspoon, balances the sweetness and deepens flavor.
9. Powdered Sugar: 1 cup, used for a simple glaze that adds sweetness and a smooth finish.
10. Milk: 2 tablespoons, thins the glaze to the perfect drizzle consistency.

Time Needed to Make This Recipe

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Special Equipment You’ll Need

This recipe is simple, but a few basic tools make the process smooth and stress free.

Mixing Bowl: Used to combine the batter evenly without overmixing.
Whisk: Helps blend wet ingredients smoothly and incorporate air gently.
9×13 Baking Pan: Provides even baking and perfect brownie thickness.
Parchment Paper: Makes lifting and slicing the brownies easy and clean.

Step-by-Step Instructions

This process is straightforward and comforting, and the batter comes together quickly, making it a joy from start to finish.

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F and line a 9×13 baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Mix the butter and sugar: Whisk the melted butter and granulated sugar together until glossy and smooth.
3. Add the eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract until fully combined.
4. Incorporate the strawberry puree: Gently whisk in the strawberry puree until the batter turns a soft pink color.
5. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt.
6. Fold the batter: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
7. Bake the brownies: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30 minutes, until set but still soft in the center.
8. Prepare the glaze: Whisk powdered sugar and milk together until smooth and pourable.
9. Glaze and cool: Spread the glaze over cooled brownies and let it set before slicing.

Serving Suggestions & Presentation Tips

Serve these strawberry brownies on a white platter to let the pink color shine, and garnish with fresh strawberry halves for a bright, fresh look. They pair beautifully with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of tea, and the glossy glaze catches the light in a way that makes them irresistible on any dessert table.

Extra Tips for Best Results

These little tips help ensure perfect brownies every single time.

• Use room temperature eggs for smoother batter and better texture.
• Do not overbake, the center should feel just set for a fudgy result.
• Let the brownies cool completely before glazing to avoid melting the topping.

Variations You Can Try

For a chocolate swirl version, reserve 1 cup of batter and mix it with 2 tablespoons cocoa powder, then swirl it back in before baking.
For a strawberry lemon twist, add 1 tablespoon lemon zest to the batter for a bright citrus note.
For a lighter texture, replace 1/4 cup flour with cornstarch for extra tenderness.
For extra strawberry flavor, fold in 1/2 cup finely chopped fresh strawberries before baking.

Make Ahead and Storage

These brownies are perfect for making ahead, which makes them ideal for gatherings or busy weeks. You can bake them a day in advance and store them covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate them for up to 5 days for a slightly firmer texture. They also freeze well when wrapped tightly, and thawing at room temperature keeps them soft and delicious.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 12
Calories per serving: 280
Note: These are approximate values.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use frozen strawberries for the puree?

Yes, frozen strawberries work well, just thaw them completely and blend until smooth before measuring.

2. Will these brownies be very sweet?

They are pleasantly sweet but balanced, especially with the slight tang from the strawberries.

3. Can I make these brownies gluten free?

You can use a 1 to 1 gluten free flour blend with good results and similar texture.

4. How do I know when the brownies are done?

The edges should be set and the center slightly soft, a toothpick should come out with moist crumbs.

5. Can I skip the glaze?

Yes, they are delicious without it, but the glaze adds sweetness and a beautiful finish.

6. Can I reduce the sugar?

You can reduce the sugar by up to 1/4 cup, but the texture may be slightly less moist.

7. Are these brownies cakey or fudgy?

They are soft and fudgy with a tender crumb, not dry or cakey.

8. Can I add chocolate chips?

Yes, folding in 1/2 cup chocolate chips adds a lovely contrast to the strawberry flavor.

9. How should I cut them cleanly?

Use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts for neat, even slices.

10. Are these good for parties and bake sales?

Absolutely, their color and flavor make them stand out and they travel very well.

Conclusion

These easy strawberry brownies are cheerful, comforting, and full of flavor, making them perfect for any occasion. Trust me, you’re going to love this, and once you try them, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again.

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