These easy strawberry brownies are a fun twist on classic brownies. With juicy strawberries mixed in, you get a sweet, rich chocolaty delight that’s perfect for summer!
They’re super simple to make—just mix, bake, and enjoy. I love how the fruity flavor brightens up the chocolate. Grab some whipped cream and you’re all set for a tasty treat! 🍓
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Unsalted Butter: I recommend using unsalted butter for better control over saltiness. If you’re dairy-free, coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute works well too!
Granulated Sugar: Regular granulated sugar is best, but you can try using coconut sugar for a less processed option. It may change the color slightly.
Eggs: Eggs give structure and moisture. To make this recipe vegan, try using flaxseed meal (1 tbsp mixed with 2.5 tbsp water per egg) or 1/4 cup applesauce as a replacement.
Freeze-Dried Strawberries: Using these gives a strong strawberry flavor without adding extra moisture. If you prefer fresh, purée them, but be careful not to add too much liquid!
Food Coloring: This is optional, but I find it fun to add a bit of color. If you want a natural alternative, try beet juice for a pink hue.
How Do I Make Sure My Brownies Are Moist and Not Overcooked?
Slightly underbaking the brownies will keep them moist and fudgy. Check them a few minutes before the suggested baking time. Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with some moist crumbs, not wet batter. This indicates they’re perfectly baked!
- Keep an eye on them around the 20-minute mark.
- If you notice the edges are set but the center is still soft, that’s a good sign to take them out.
- Let them cool in the pan for a bit as they will firm up while cooling.
Easy Strawberry Brownies Recipe for Summer Treats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Brownies:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries, finely crushed (or 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, pureed)
- A few drops of red or pink food coloring (optional, for vibrant color)
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons strawberry juice or puree (fresh strawberries blended)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 20-25 minutes to bake. After that, you’ll want to let it cool for about 30 minutes before adding the glaze. Overall, you can enjoy your strawberry brownies in under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is important for making sure your brownies bake evenly. Then, lightly grease or line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Combine the Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and granulated sugar. Whisk them together until well blended. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each one. Stir in the vanilla extract until everything is nicely combined.
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, salt, and crushed freeze-dried strawberries (or strawberry puree if you prefer). This will help distribute the dry ingredients evenly throughout the batter.
4. Combine the Mixtures:
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, folding gently until just combined. If you are adding food coloring for a more vibrant appearance, now’s the time to mix it in!
5. Bake the Brownies:
Pour the brownie batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out with moist crumbs but not wet batter.
6. Prepare the Glaze:
While the brownies are cooling in the pan, mix the powdered sugar with the strawberry juice or puree and the vanilla extract (if using) in a small bowl until smooth. The glaze should be slightly thick but pourable.
7. Final Touches:
Once the brownies have completely cooled, spread the glaze evenly over the top. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before cutting the brownies into squares.
8. Serve & Enjoy:
Now it’s time to enjoy your delicious, fruity, and summery strawberry brownies! They’re perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or just a sweet treat at home.
These strawberry brownies are moist and flavorful with a lovely pink hue and a sweet strawberry glaze, perfect for summer treats! Enjoy!
FAQ for Easy Strawberry Brownies
Can I Use Fresh Strawberries Instead of Freeze-Dried?
Yes, you can use fresh strawberries! Just puree 1/2 cup of fresh strawberries, but be cautious not to add too much extra liquid. You may want to reduce other liquids in the recipe slightly to maintain the right consistency.
How Can I Make These Brownies Gluten-Free?
To make gluten-free strawberry brownies, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum for proper texture!
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Absolutely! You can mix in chocolate chips, nuts, or even white chocolate chunks for added texture and flavor. Just be careful not to overload the batter so that it stays moist.
How Should I Store Leftover Brownies?
Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to 3 months. Just remember to let them cool completely before wrapping or sealing them!
