These strawberry brownies are a fun twist on the classic treat! They combine rich chocolatey goodness with fresh, juicy strawberries for a sweet surprise in every bite.
Honestly, what’s better than chocolate and strawberries? I love topping them with whipped cream for an extra special touch. They’re perfect for sharing or just for me to enjoy! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries are key for flavor! If you’re short on fresh ones, you can use frozen strawberries. Just ensure they’re thawed and drained well before pureeing.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for control over salt levels, but you can substitute with coconut oil or vegetable oil for a dairy-free option.
Sugar: Granulated sugar gives sweetness and helps with texture. Brown sugar can be used for a richer flavor, and you can also lower the amount if you prefer less sweetness.
Flour: All-purpose flour works perfectly, but for gluten-free brownies, try almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend. Just be aware it may affect texture slightly.
Powdered Sugar: This is used for icing. If you’re out, you can make your own by blending granulated sugar until fine.
How Do I Combine Ingredients Without Overmixing?
Mixing the brownie batter carefully is crucial for the right texture. Overmixing can make brownies tough. Here’s how to do it:
- First, mix your wet ingredients until fully combined, then focus on your dry ingredients separately.
- When adding dry to wet, use a spatula or wooden spoon to fold gently. Scoop from the bottom and turn the bowl to evenly combine. Stop as soon as you no longer see dry flour.
Remember, a few lumps are okay! This technique helps keep your brownies soft and chewy.
How to Make Strawberry Brownies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Brownies:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
For the Icing:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 10 minutes to prepare and about 25-30 minutes to bake. After baking, let the brownies cool for another 10 minutes in the pan, followed by complete cooling on a wire rack. Altogether, you’ll need around 1 hour to make these delightful brownies!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is warming up, take out an 8×8 inch baking pan and grease it lightly with butter or cooking spray. This will help your brownies come out easily after baking.
2. Combine the Wet Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, add the pureed strawberries, melted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix everything together well until it’s fully combined. This mixture will give your brownies that yummy strawberry flavor!
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, grab your whisk and combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder. Make sure these dry ingredients are mixed well so your brownies rise properly when baking.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
Gradually add the dry ingredient mix into the strawberry mixture. Stir gently until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the brownies tough. A few lumps are totally fine!
5. Bake the Brownies:
Pour the brownie batter into your prepared baking pan. Spread it out evenly. Place it in the preheated oven and let it bake for 25-30 minutes. To check if they’re done, insert a toothpick in the center—if it comes out clean, your brownies are ready!
6. Prepare the Icing:
While the brownies are baking, it’s icing time! In a bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth. If it’s too thick, you can add a little more milk until you get your desired consistency.
7. Cool and Ice the Brownies:
Once the brownies are baked, take them out of the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. After that, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once they have cooled, pour the icing over the brownies and use a spatula to spread it if needed. Let the icing set before cutting.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Now comes the best part—cutting the brownies into squares and serving them! Enjoy your delicious homemade Strawberry Brownies!
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries! Be sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly to remove excess water before pureeing. This helps maintain the right consistency for your brownies.
Can I Substitute the Sugar with a Sugar Alternative?
Absolutely! You can use a sugar substitute like coconut sugar or a granular stevia blend. However, check the conversion ratios, as some substitutes may require different amounts than granulated sugar.
How to 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, wrap them tightly and refrigerate for up to a week, or freeze for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw them overnight in the fridge before enjoying!
What Variations Can I Try With This Recipe?
You can add chocolate chips for extra richness or nuts for added crunch! Another delicious option is to swirl in a bit of peanut butter or Nutella before baking for a unique flavor twist.
