Name: Easy Strawberry Brownies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 28 min
Ingredients: 1 box strawberry cake mix; 2 large eggs; ⅓ cup salted butter, melted (or 1/3 cup oil); 1 teaspoon strawberry extract (see notes below); ¾ cup powdered sugar; 2 Tablespoons strawberry preserves; 1 ½ Tablespoons milk

Introduction to Easy Strawberry Brownies

The allure of easy homemade desserts

Nothing quite compares to the warm, comforting feeling that comes from baking a dessert at home. Easy homemade desserts like strawberry brownies not only fill your kitchen with delicious aromas, but they also provide an opportunity to create something special with minimal effort. With just a box of cake mix and a few simple ingredients, you can whip up an indulgent treat that’s perfect for sharing or enjoying solo. Who doesn’t love a quick, satisfying recipe that delights the taste buds?

Why strawberry brownies are a perfect choice

Strawberry brownies are a fantastic choice when you crave something sweet, fruity, and chocolatey all at once. They offer a delightful balance of flavors and textures that make them stand out from traditional brownies. Coupled with the light tartness of strawberries, these brownies become a refreshing twist on classic chocolate delight. With a total prep time of just 10 minutes and an oven time of 18, they seamlessly fit into even the most hectic schedules. Plus, sprucing them up with a simple glaze adds a burst of color and extra sweetness. If you're looking for a dessert to impress guests or simply treat yourself, give these easy strawberry brownies a try—they're bound to become a favorite!

For more delectable dessert ideas, check out resources like Bon Appétit or Food Network for inspiration.

Ingredients for Easy Strawberry Brownies

Creating easy strawberry brownies in your kitchen doesn’t require a long list of complicated ingredients. In fact, simplicity is the star of this recipe! Here is what you’ll need:

Essential ingredients for the brownies

1 box strawberry cake mix: This is the heart of your brownies, providing that rich strawberry flavor and texture.
2 large eggs: They help bind the ingredients together and contribute to the chewy texture.
⅓ cup salted butter, melted: For that luscious, moist consistency. You can also substitute with ⅓ cup of oil if you prefer.
1 teaspoon strawberry extract: This intensifies the strawberry flavor—don’t skip it!

Ingredients for the glaze

¾ cup powdered sugar: This gives the glaze its sweetness and smooth texture.
2 tablespoons strawberry preserves: For a delicious, fruity touch.
1 ½ tablespoons milk: Helps achieve the perfect pouring consistency for your glaze.

With just these few ingredients, you’re all set to whip up these delightful brownies. If you're looking for more baking inspiration, check out Baking Tips for expert advice!

Step-by-step preparation of Easy Strawberry Brownies

When it comes to satisfying your sweet tooth, nothing beats the delightful fusion of strawberry and chocolate. These easy strawberry brownies are not just a treat for the taste buds; they’re perfect for a cozy gathering or a snack after a long day. Let’s break down the preparation into simple steps so you can whip these up effortlessly!

Prepping the kitchen and pan

Before diving into the mixing, it's essential to prep your workspace and equipment. Start by:

Preheating your oven to 350°F (about 175°C). A hot oven ensures your brownies bake evenly and come out perfectly chewy.
Grab an 8x8-inch or 9x9-inch baking dish. Spray it with nonstick cooking spray for easy removal later.
For added security, line the bottom with parchment paper and let the edges hang over the sides. This little trick will help you lift the brownies out of the pan once they're cool—trust me, your future self will thank you!

Mixing the brownie batter

Now it's time to mix things up! In a large mixing bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, eggs, melted butter, and strawberry extract. Here’s how to get the batter just right:

Stir until everything is well combined. Don't be surprised if the batter feels a bit thick; that’s completely normal!
If you’d like, you can also sneak in some chocolate chips for an added touch of indulgence. Who doesn’t love a chocolate-strawberry combo?

Baking the brownies

Once your batter is ready, it’s time to get baking! Spread the brownie mix evenly in the prepared pan and pop it in the oven. Bake for 18-25 minutes, but keep an eye on those edges—they’ll give you a hint when they’re perfectly done. Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, you’re all set!

Cooling the brownies

After baking, don’t rush into cutting them. Patience is key! Remove the pan from the oven and place it on a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling phase is crucial as it allows the brownies to set and makes slicing much easier.

Making the glaze

While your brownies are cooling, it’s the perfect moment to prepare our luscious glaze. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together:

Powdered sugar
Strawberry preserves
Milk

Mix until smooth and creamy—this will elevate the brownies, adding a sweet, fruit-forward finish that everyone will adore!

Glazing and serving the brownies

Finally, the moment you've been waiting for! Once the brownies have cooled thoroughly, pour the glaze over the top. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, letting it drizzle down the sides for that irresistible look.

Now, cut them into your desired size—9 large pieces for a generous serving or 12 smaller pieces for those who like a nibble instead of a full serving. Serve them to friends, family, or enjoy them all to yourself!

These chewy easy strawberry brownies are bound to impress. So, grab your ingredients and get baking; you won’t regret it! For more delicious dessert ideas, check out resources like Taste of Home or Epicurious.

Variations on Easy Strawberry Brownies

Elevate your easy strawberry brownies with a few simple tweaks that add delightful surprises.

Adding chocolate chips for extra flavor

For those who can’t resist the combination of chocolate and strawberries, try mixing in some semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips into your brownie batter. About half a cup should add a rich, decadent touch that complements the fruity goodness. You’ll love how the melty chocolate adds even more depth to each bite.

Swapping fresh strawberries for preserves

If fresh strawberries aren’t on hand, don’t fret! You can effortlessly swap them for strawberry preserves. It infuses a concentrated burst of strawberry flavor without the fuss. Stir in a couple of tablespoons into the brownie batter, or use them in the glaze, for an easy, flavorful alternative. For more customization ideas, check out this fruit dessert guide.

With these variations, your easy strawberry brownies will be anything but ordinary!

Cooking tips and notes for Easy Strawberry Brownies

Tips for achieving the best texture

For deliciously moist easy strawberry brownies, ensure you don’t overmix the batter; this can lead to tough brownies. When baking, check for doneness around the 18-minute mark using a toothpick—slight moist crumbs should cling to it. If you prefer a fudgier texture, slightly underbake. A tip from baking experts is to let the brownies cool in the pan before transferring; this helps maintain their moisture.

Common mistakes to avoid

Avoid using cold eggs to prevent the batter from being unevenly mixed and resulting in a denser texture. Also, ensure that your oven is properly preheated—an oven thermometer can help. Lastly, don’t skip the parchment paper; it’s a lifesaver for easy removal! For more tips on avoiding common baking pitfalls, check out King Arthur Baking.

Serving Suggestions for Easy Strawberry Brownies

Pairing with Ice Cream or Whipped Cream

Indulge in a delightful experience by pairing your easy strawberry brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a generous dollop of whipped cream. The creaminess beautifully contrasts with the rich strawberry flavor, creating a luscious treat that’s hard to resist. For an extra touch, consider adding a drizzle of chocolate syrup or sprinkles. This combination is not only visually appealing but also perfect for elevating your dessert game during gatherings.

Serving with Fresh Fruit on the Side

Serve your brownies alongside fresh strawberries or a medley of seasonal fruits like blueberries or raspberries. This adds a refreshing balance and highlights the berry flavors already present in your easy strawberry brownies. Plus, having fruit on the plate enhances the presentation, making your dessert feel more gourmet. Whipping up this simple addition can transform your dessert into a delightful summer treat, perfect for picnics or casual get-togethers.

Time Breakdown for Easy Strawberry Brownies

Preparation Time

Get excited! Easy Strawberry Brownies come together in just 10 minutes. Perfect for those days when you want a quick yet delicious treat.

Baking Time

Once prepped, bake your brownies for 18 minutes. Just enough time to set the mood for a cozy dessert experience!

Total Time

In under 30 minutes, you’ll have freshly baked brownies ready to impress. Enjoy them warm with that dreamy glaze on top!

For more on baking times and tips, check out this insightful guide. It’s always handy to get the perfect bake every time!

Nutritional Facts for Easy Strawberry Brownies

Calories per Serving

Each serving of these easy strawberry brownies has about 328 calories. They make for a delicious treat without too much guilt!

Sugar Content

These brownies pack a sweet punch, containing approximately 26 grams of sugar per serving. While indulging, you can savor every bite!

Protein Content

In each serving, you get about 3 grams of protein. Though it's not a protein powerhouse, the combination with cake mix does provide a hearty element to your dessert experience.

These brownies are perfect for those who want a quick and simple dessert that still delivers on flavor. For more nutritional insights, check resources like the USDA FoodData Central for a deeper dive! Enjoy your baking!

FAQ about Easy Strawberry Brownies

Can I use a different cake mix?

Absolutely! If you want to switch things up, you can use a vanilla or chocolate cake mix instead. This will yield a different flavor profile, but the texture will remain deliciously chewy. Just keep in mind that the berry flavor will be less prominent, so feel free to add fresh strawberries or a bit of fruit extract to match your taste!

How should I store leftovers?

To keep your easy strawberry brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to enjoy them longer, placing them in the fridge can extend their freshness by another week. Just ensure they’re well-covered to maintain their moisture!

Can these brownies be frozen?

Yes! These brownies freeze beautifully. Slice them up, place wax paper between layers, and store in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. When you're ready to indulge, just thaw them in the fridge or at room temperature for a sweet treat any time. For more freezing tips, check out resources like The Spruce Eats.

Conclusion on Easy Strawberry Brownies

In just about 30 minutes, you can create delectable easy strawberry brownies that are sure to impress friends and family. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, this delightful dessert captures the essence of summer. Try them today, and savor the joy of homemade treats!