When the sun is shining and strawberries are in full bloom, there’s no better way to celebrate than with a batch of irresistible strawberry brownies. Picture this: thick, fudgy brownies infused with the sweet essence of ripe strawberries, each slice topped with a silky white chocolate ganache that glistens like a gem. This delightful dessert is not only a feast for the eyes but also a crowd-pleaser that can transport your taste buds to a summer picnic with every bite.
I found myself yearning for a change from the usual desserts, and that’s when this enchanting recipe caught my attention. The best part? Making these brownies is as much fun as devouring them! With just a handful of ingredients and some straightforward steps, you can impress even the pickiest of eaters. So, let’s dive into this charming recipe that balances rich chocolate and fruity goodness—perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking to treat yourself.
Why are Strawberry Brownies a must-try?
Delightful Flavor: The rich, fudgy texture pairs beautifully with the fresh, sweet taste of strawberries, creating a unique dessert experience.
Effortless Preparation: This recipe requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy days when you crave something special.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to mix in different berries or nuts to suit your taste, allowing endless possibilities for customization!
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Whether it’s a birthday party or a cozy family dinner, these brownies are sure to impress everyone at the table.
Visual Appeal: With vibrant colors and a glossy ganache, these brownies look just as good as they taste—great for Instagram-worthy moments!
For more delicious dessert ideas, check out our easy dessert recipes that are perfect for any occasion!
Strawberry Brownies Ingredients
• Here’s what you need to create these delightful strawberry brownies!
For the Brownie Batter
- Fresh or Frozen Strawberries – Adds natural flavor and sweetness; can substitute with other berries for variation.
- Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and moisture; adjust to taste, especially if using sweeter chocolate.
- Pure Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor; can substitute with almond extract for a different profile.
- Lemon Zest and Juice – Adds acidity to balance sweetness; substitute with lime for a different citrus note.
- Kosher Salt – Balances flavors; use sea salt if preferred.
- Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; can substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- Large Eggs and Egg Yolk – Essential for structure and moisture in the brownies; no direct substitute recommended.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; can use gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
- Baking Powder – Leavening agent for the brownies; omit if using self-rising flour.
- Pink Gel Food Coloring – Enhances appearance; optional and can be skipped or replaced with natural colorants.
For the Ganache
- White Chocolate Melts – Offers sweetness and creaminess for the ganache; can replace with dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
- Heavy Cream – Necessary for making ganache; use coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
For the Topping
- Freeze-Dried Strawberries – Optional for color and flavor; substitute with regular strawberries if unavailable, but note texture will differ.
- Fresh Strawberries (for topping) – Optional decorative element; substitute with raspberry slices for variation.
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s embark on creating these delightful strawberry brownies that will leave everyone craving more!
How to Make Strawberry Brownies
Make Strawberry Puree: In a saucepan, cook fresh or frozen strawberries with granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice over medium heat. Stir until thickened, about 15-20 minutes. Blend until smooth, then let it cool.
Prep Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal of the brownies later.
Prepare Batter: Melt unsalted butter and white chocolate melts together in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. In a stand mixer, beat large eggs, granulated sugar, and optional freeze-dried strawberries until fluffy and airy. Add the cooled strawberry puree and the melted chocolate mixture, mixing until well combined.
Combine Dry Ingredients: Change to the paddle attachment on your mixer. Gradually mix in all-purpose flour, baking powder, and kosher salt until just combined. If desired, add a few drops of pink gel food coloring for a festive look.
Bake: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges start to brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow brownies to cool completely in the pan.
Make Ganache: In a small saucepan, heat heavy cream until simmering. Pour the hot cream over the white chocolate melts in a bowl, let it sit for a minute, then stir in the cooled strawberry puree until the ganache is smooth and glossy.
Finish: Once the brownies have cooled, spread the ganache evenly on top. For the final touch, decorate with fresh strawberries on top for a beautiful presentation.
Optional: Drizzle extra ganache over individual brownie pieces for an added touch of sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Strawberry Brownies Variations
Feel free to get creative and make these delightful brownies your own with these tasty twists!
- Berry Blend: Mix fresh raspberries or blueberries into the batter for a deliciously fruity medley. The contrast of flavors will elevate your brownies even more.
- Nutty Delight: Stir in chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that complements the fudgy texture beautifully. This adds richness and a satisfying bite to every piece.
- Dairy-Free Option: Swap unsalted butter for coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate in the ganache to make this treat suitable for a dairy-free diet. You’ll still enjoy that creamy decadence!
- Citrus Zing: Replace lemon juice with orange juice for a sunny citrus twist that brightens the flavor profile. It’s a refreshing take that compliments the strawberries beautifully.
- Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, aromatic twist that makes an incredible difference in flavor. It’s a subtle change that can create a whole new experience!
- Gluten-Free Love: Opt instead for a gluten-free flour blend and make these brownies suitable for gluten-sensitive friends without compromising taste or texture. They’ll be thrilled with the result!
- Fudgy Swirl: Create a marbled effect by reserving some brownie batter and swirling it with your strawberry puree before baking. It not only looks stunning but gives each bite a blend of flavors!
- Chocolate Heaven: Use dark chocolate instead of white chocolate for the ganache to create a rich, sumptuous topping that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the strawberries.
Experimenting with these variations ensures you’ll have something uniquely yours to share with friends and family!
Expert Tips for Strawberry Brownies
- Perfectly Melted Chocolate: Ensure your butter and chocolate are completely melted to avoid a lumpy brownie batter; a smooth mixture guarantees the best strawberry brownies.
- Check for Doneness: If your brownies seem undercooked, continue baking them and check periodically in 5-minute intervals until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool Completely: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before spreading the ganache; this helps it adhere better and prevents melting.
- Strawberry Puree: Blend the strawberry puree until completely smooth for the best texture in your brownies; any lumps can affect the final consistency.
- Custom Ganache: Experiment with different types of chocolate for the ganache; dark chocolate creates a rich contrast with the strawberry flavor for a unique twist.
What to Serve with Strawberry Brownies?
Indulging in these luscious strawberry brownies is just the beginning of your dessert adventure!
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a delightful contrast to the rich, fudgy brownies, melting beautifully over each slice. The cold and warm combination is pure bliss.
Fresh Berries: A mix of blueberries and raspberries adds a burst of freshness and vibrant color, complementing the strawberry flavors while enhancing visual appeal. They not only taste great but also elevate the dish for any gathering.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream can add a lovely texture to your brownies while softening their richness. A dollop on top creates a beautiful presentation that beckons to be devoured.
Mint Tea: A gently brewed mint tea serves as a refreshing palate cleanser, perfectly balancing the sweetness of the brownies. Its aromatic notes and soothing qualities make for a lovely drink pairing.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling extra chocolate sauce can amplify the dessert experience with another layer of sweet indulgence. It’s perfect for those with a deep love for chocolate.
Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad with seasonal fruits refreshes your taste buds and provides a healthy counterpoint to the rich brownies. The vibrant flavors can add a cheerful touch to dessert time, creating balance in every bite.
Storage Tips for Strawberry Brownies
- Room Temperature: Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them fudgy and fresh; just ensure they are not topped with fresh strawberries.
- Fridge: If you have leftover brownies, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. This will help maintain their delicious flavor and texture.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individually wrapped brownies for up to 3 months. Just wrap each brownie tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag.
- Reheating: To enjoy brownies from the fridge or freezer, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes. Microwave for 10-15 seconds for the best indulgence with the ganache.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful strawberry brownies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the brownie batter up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Just make sure to cover the bowl tightly to maintain freshness and prevent browning. The ganache can also be made ahead of time and kept in the fridge for up to 3 days—be sure to bring it back to room temperature and give it a gentle stir before spreading it over your brownies. When you’re ready to bake, simply let the batter sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before pouring it into the pan and baking. With these make-ahead options, you can effortlessly enjoy scrumptious strawberry brownies with minimal effort on busy days!
Strawberry Brownies Recipe FAQs
What type of strawberries should I use for the brownies?
Absolutely! Fresh strawberries are optimal as they provide the best flavor and texture. However, if fresh strawberries are out of season, frozen strawberries will work well too. Just ensure they are thawed and well-drained before use, as excess moisture can affect the brownie consistency.
How should I store leftover strawberry brownies?
To keep your brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. If they are not topped with fresh strawberries, they can also be kept at room temperature for up to 3 days. Just be sure they are protected from direct sunlight!
Can I freeze strawberry brownies? If so, how?
Yes, you can freeze strawberry brownies! To do this, allow them to cool completely, then wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped brownies in a freezer-safe bag, and they can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight or let them sit out at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
What if my brownies are undercooked?
Very! If your brownies turn out undercooked, don’t worry—just pop them back in the oven! Check them every 5 minutes. You should bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, usually needing an extra 5 to 10 minutes depending on your oven’s heat.
Are strawberry brownies suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Certainly! To make gluten-free strawberry brownies, simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Many blends work well in brownie recipes. Also, be sure to check that all other ingredients, especially baking powder and chocolate, are gluten-free as well.
Can my pets have strawberry brownies?
No, it’s best to keep these tempting treats away from your furry friends! The sugars and chocolate can be harmful to pets. Instead, consider giving them fresh strawberries in moderation—they make a delightful snack for pups!
Decadent Strawberry Brownies with Creamy Ganache Magic
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Make Strawberry Puree: In a saucepan, cook fresh or frozen strawberries with granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice over medium heat.
- Stir until thickened, about 15-20 minutes. Blend until smooth, then let it cool.
- Prep Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Prepare Batter: Melt unsalted butter and white chocolate melts together in the microwave.
- In a stand mixer, beat large eggs, granulated sugar, and optional freeze-dried strawberries until fluffy and airy.
- Add the cooled strawberry puree and the melted chocolate mixture, mixing until well combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Gradually mix in all-purpose flour, baking powder, and kosher salt until just combined.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until done.
- Make Ganache: In a small saucepan, heat heavy cream until simmering. Pour over the white chocolate melts in a bowl.
- Stir in the cooled strawberry puree until the ganache is smooth and glossy.
- Once cooled, spread the ganache evenly on top. Decorate with fresh strawberries.