These strawberry brownies are a sweet treat that blend rich chocolate and juicy strawberries. They’ll surely make your taste buds dance with delight!
Honestly, mixing strawberries into brownies is magic! I love serving these at gatherings, and I can never resist a piece (or two)! 🍓🍫
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter: Unsalted butter gives a rich flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can use margarine or coconut oil for a dairy-free option. I find that butter really elevates the taste.
Sugar: Granulated sugar is a must, but you can swap it with brown sugar for a hint of molasses flavor. I often use a mix of both for added depth.
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries offer the best flavor, but frozen berries work great too—just make sure to thaw and drain them. I love using ripe, juicy strawberries for the best puree.
Eggs: If you want an egg-free version, try using 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce or a mashed banana per egg. It keeps the brownies moist!
Flour: All-purpose flour is typical, but for a gluten-free option, almond flour or a gluten-free baking mix can work well. Just keep an eye on baking time as it may vary!
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Texture with Your Brownies?
To get that fudgy texture, mixing your ingredients correctly is key. Don’t overmix once you add the flour; you want to see a few lumps for a chewy brownie. Make sure your oven is properly preheated to prevent uneven baking.
- Combine melted butter and sugar thoroughly for a smooth base.
- When incorporating the puree and eggs, mix until just combined to avoid a rubbery texture.
- Monitor the baking time closely—start checking around the 20-minute mark with a toothpick.
How to Make Strawberry Brownies?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Brownies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks), melted
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup strawberries, pureed (fresh or frozen, thawed)
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Frosting:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Red food coloring (optional, for enhanced color)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 20-25 minutes for baking. After baking, you’ll need to let the brownies cool before frosting them. In total, plan for about 1 hour, including the cooling and setting time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and grease it lightly. For easier removal later, line the bottom and sides with parchment paper. This will help the brownies come out neatly.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, pour in the melted butter and add the granulated sugar. Mix them together until they’re fully combined. Then, add the pureed strawberries, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix everything until it’s nice and smooth—this is where the brownie flavor really begins!
3. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the baking powder and salt throughout the flour.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
Now, slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! If you want your brownies to have a brighter pink color, add a few drops of red food coloring and mix until the color is even throughout.
5. Bake the Brownies:
Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Pop it into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes—nobody likes dry brownies!
6. Prepare the Frosting:
While the brownies are baking, it’s the perfect time to whip up the frosting! In a small bowl, combine the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is smooth. If it’s too thick, you can add a little more milk. If it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar until you get the right consistency.
7. Cool and Frost:
Once the brownies are done, take them out of the oven and let them cool completely in the pan. This is important—frosting hot brownies is a recipe for a melty mess! Once they’re cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top. Let the frosting set for about 30 minutes so it’s nice and firm.
8. Slice and Serve:
Now comes the best part! Cut the brownies into squares and serve them up. Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Brownies! They’re perfect for sharing, or you can keep them all to yourself if you’d like!
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen strawberries, make sure to thaw them completely before pureeing. This will help achieve the right consistency for the batter. Drain any excess liquid after thawing to prevent the brownies from becoming too wet.
How Do I Store Leftover Brownies?
Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer them to stay fresh longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture!
Can I Substitute the Butter with Something Healthier?
Yes, you can substitute the unsalted butter with coconut oil or a vegetable oil of your choice. Keep in mind that this might slightly alter the flavor and texture, but it will still yield delicious brownies!
How Can I Make My Frosting Thicker or Thinner?
To make your frosting thicker, simply add more powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thick, mix in a little more milk, one teaspoon at a time, until it’s just right. Always whisk well after each addition to ensure smoothness!
