Strawberry Brownies Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that fuses easy baking with pure berry bliss, you’re in for a treat! These Strawberry Brownies are a revelation: thick, chewy, and bursting with fresh strawberry flavor inside and out, thanks to their simple cake mix base and irresistible pink frosting. With minimal ingredients and just a few minutes’ hands-on time, you can whip up a batch of Strawberry Brownies any day of the week. Whether for family, friends, or just because you deserve something sweet, this recipe will have everyone reaching for seconds!

Ingredients You’ll Need

What I love most about these Strawberry Brownies is how every ingredient plays a starring role. Each item is carefully chosen to create vibrant color, plush texture, and that unmistakable strawberry flavor. Don’t skip or swap—this mix is magic!

• Strawberry cake mix: The base of the recipe, delivering a juicy burst of strawberry flavor and bright pink color without any fuss.
• Large eggs: Two eggs bind everything together and give the brownies a rich, tender chew.
• Vegetable or canola oil: Adds moistness and that classic fudgy brownie texture—don’t skimp!
• Vanilla extract: Just a teaspoon, but it boosts the berry notes and rounds out the flavor.
• Powdered sugar: Makes the frosting creamy-sweet with that signature melt-in-your-mouth finish.
• Strawberry preserves: For a double hit of real berry taste in the luscious frosting (Bonne Maman is pure strawberry gold here!).
• Milk: Gives the glaze its perfect spreading consistency—adjust as needed for your preferred thickness.
• Cream cheese (optional): Just a tablespoon creates a dreamy, tangy contrast in the frosting; highly recommended if you adore strawberry cheesecake vibes.

How to Make Strawberry Brownies

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

First up, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Take out your trusty 8×8 inch baking pan and either give it a generous spray of nonstick cooking spray or line it with parchment paper, making sure the edges overhang for easy lifting later. I find parchment works wonders for those crisp edges and easy cleanup!

Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter

In a large bowl, toss together the strawberry cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. No electric mixer needed—just stir with a spatula or wooden spoon until all the dry pockets of mix disappear. The batter will be thick, almost like a dough. Press it evenly into your prepared pan, making sure to reach every corner for even baking.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Slide your pan into the oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes, just until the center is set and a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake—these Strawberry Brownies should be soft and dense, not dry! Once baked, set the pan on a rack and let them cool completely before frosting.

Step 4: Whip Up Strawberry Brownie Frosting

While the brownies cool, make the show-stopping topping. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, strawberry preserves, milk, and cream cheese if you like (I highly recommend!) until smooth and creamy. The color will be a gorgeous shade of pink you just can’t resist.

Step 5: Frost and Enjoy

Once the brownies are completely cool, spread the frosting in a lavishly thick layer over the top. Let the frosted brownies set for at least 10 minutes, so the icing can firm up—if you can resist long enough. Slice into squares, serve, and prepare for the oohs and aahs!

How to Serve Strawberry Brownies

Garnishes

Go all out with toppings to add flair! Fresh strawberry slices fanned on each piece look beautiful and add a little juicy sparkle. A dusting of extra powdered sugar or a handful of white chocolate chips gives elegance or decadence, depending on your mood.

Side Dishes

Pairing these Strawberry Brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream is downright dreamy; the contrast of cold and chewy is fabulous. Or serve alongside a cup of hot tea or a frosty glass of strawberry milk for the ultimate treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Take them to parties stacked on a tiered cake stand for a pink pop at your dessert table, or package individual bars in parchment and twine for a thoughtful homemade gift. Want to impress? Cut smaller squares, skewer with a toothpick, and serve as part of a brownie sundae bar!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Strawberry Brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If it’s hot or humid, keep them in the fridge to preserve the creamy texture of the frosting. The flavors actually intensify overnight, making them even better the next day!

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze individual brownie squares (unfrosted if possible) wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw at room temperature, then frost just before serving for best results. If you’ve already frosted them, they’ll still freeze well, but allow extra time to thaw so the frosting sets up nicely.

Reheating

If you like your Strawberry Brownies a tad warm, pop them in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds. The frosting will get melty and the brownie ultra gooey—a serious treat with a scoop of ice cream!

FAQs

Can I use homemade strawberry cake mix instead?

Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade strawberry cake mix recipe, use it as the base for these Strawberry Brownies. Just make sure you end up with the same total amount as a store-bought box, and don’t skip the eggs, oil, and vanilla.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Yes! Simply double all the ingredients and bake in a 9×13 inch pan. Keep a close eye on baking time, as it might need a few extra minutes—you’re looking for the same slightly underbaked, dense texture in the center.

What brand of preserves is best for the frosting?

Bonne Maman strawberry preserves are my top pick for truly incredible berry flavor and authentic fruit chunks, but any high-quality preserve or jam will shine. Try to avoid jellies, as they don’t deliver the same depth of flavor or texture.

Can I make these gluten free?

Definitely—just sub in your favorite gluten-free strawberry cake mix and check that your other ingredients (especially the preserves) are gluten free. The brownies may turn out a bit softer, but the taste will still be fantastic!

Do Strawberry Brownies need to be refrigerated?

If your kitchen is cool, they’re fine at room temperature for up to 3 days. On warmer days, or if you use the cream cheese in the frosting, play it safe and keep them in the fridge. Always store in an airtight container for maximum freshness!

Final Thoughts

Strawberry Brownies are one of those magical treats that bring a big dose of happiness with every bite—whether you bake them for a celebration or just a quiet afternoon sweet tooth. I hope this recipe becomes a favorite you return to again and again. Go ahead and give it a try—the pink, gooey goodness is waiting for you!

Print