Strawberry Brownies

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These Strawberry Brownies are a delicious and easy springtime treat that combines the sweetness of strawberry cake mix with a creamy, tangy touch from cream cheese. The rich, gooey texture and the addition of fresh strawberries on top make these brownies not only a delightful dessert but also a gorgeous addition to any party or celebration. With minimal ingredients, including cake mix, eggs, and cream cheese, these brownies are simple to make but taste like a gourmet treat.

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

  • 1 box (13.25 oz) strawberry cake mix

  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)

  • 1 large egg

  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened

  • For the Glaze (Optional):

  • 1 cup powdered sugar

  • 2 tablespoons seedless strawberry jam

  • 4 tablespoons heavy cream (may need up to 6 tablespoons)

  • Fresh strawberries, halved, for garnish

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 7×11-inch or 8-9 inch square baking dish with parchment paper or foil and lightly grease with nonstick cooking spray.

  2. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer set to medium speed to combine the vegetable oil, egg, and cream cheese until smooth.

  3. Add the strawberry cake mix to the mixture and stir until fully combined. The batter will be thick.

  4. Press the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish using a silicone spatula or your fingers.

  5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center looks mostly set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

  6. Let the brownies cool completely before adding the glaze.

  7. To make the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, strawberry jam, and heavy cream until smooth and pourable. Add extra cream if needed for the desired consistency.

  8. Pour the glaze over the cooled brownies and let it set for at least 15 minutes.

  9. Slice into 9 pieces and garnish each with a halved strawberry. Serve immediately.

Nutrients

  • Calories: 313 kcal per serving

  • Carbohydrates: 51g

  • Protein: 3g

  • Fat: 11g

    • Saturated Fat: 6g

  • Cholesterol: 38mg

  • Sodium: 331mg

  • Potassium: 33mg

  • Fiber: 0.05g

  • Sugar: 36g

  • Vitamin A: 294 IU

  • Vitamin C: 0.4mg

  • Calcium: 98mg

  • Iron: 1mg

A Sweet and Tangy Flavor Combination

The main flavor profile of Strawberry Brownies comes from the combination of strawberry cake mix and cream cheese. Strawberry cake mix provides the base of the brownies, offering a light, fluffy texture with the natural sweetness of strawberries. This sweetness is balanced by the tanginess of cream cheese, which not only adds a rich and smooth texture but also brings a slight acidity that cuts through the sweetness, creating a well-rounded flavor.

The cream cheese is key to achieving the signature gooey, melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes these brownies so special. When mixed with the strawberry cake batter, it creates a soft, moist consistency that is unlike traditional brownies. This makes for a dessert that is both satisfying and refreshing, perfect for the warmer months when you crave something sweet yet light.

The Texture: Soft, Gooey, and Delicious

One of the standout features of these Strawberry Brownies is their texture. While traditional brownies are often dense and fudgy, these brownies have a lighter, fluffier texture, thanks to the use of strawberry cake mix. The combination of cake mix and cream cheese creates a gooey, almost custard-like consistency that is both rich and moist without being overly heavy.

The brownies are baked until the edges turn golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This ensures that the brownies maintain their soft and gooey interior while achieving a slightly crisp exterior. The result is a dessert that has the perfect balance of texture—crispy on the outside, tender and moist on the inside, with that signature melt-in-your-mouth quality that makes them so irresistible.

A Simple Yet Elegant Dessert

What makes these Strawberry Brownies even more impressive is how simple they are to make. With only a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can have a dessert that looks and tastes as if it came from a gourmet bakery. The use of strawberry cake mix eliminates the need for complex ingredients or measurements, making the preparation process quick and straightforward.

After mixing the basic ingredients—cake mix, oil, egg, and cream cheese—the batter is pressed into the baking dish, making the entire process hands-off. Once baked, the addition of a simple glaze made from powdered sugar, strawberry jam, and heavy cream further enhances the flavor while adding a glossy finish to the brownies.

The ease of making these brownies is one of the reasons they are so beloved. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or someone who simply enjoys making desserts occasionally, this recipe is accessible and hassle-free. The beauty of these brownies lies in their simplicity, allowing the flavors and textures to shine through without requiring hours of preparation.

The Optional Glaze: An Extra Layer of Sweetness

While these Strawberry Brownies are already delicious on their own, the glaze adds an extra layer of sweetness and complexity. The glaze is made by whisking together powdered sugar, seedless strawberry jam, and heavy cream. The jam infuses the glaze with the natural fruity flavor of strawberries, creating a smooth, glossy finish that adds both sweetness and visual appeal.

The glaze is not overly thick, making it easy to drizzle over the brownies, where it seeps into the cracks and crevices of the top layer. Once the glaze sets, it forms a delicate, sugary coating that enhances the flavor without overwhelming the other components of the dessert. The glaze also helps to make the brownies even more visually appealing, giving them a polished, professional look that would impress guests at any gathering.

Fresh Strawberries for Garnish: Adding a Pop of Color and Flavor

Fresh strawberries are the perfect garnish for these brownies, not only adding a pop of color but also a burst of freshness. The juicy, sweet strawberries complement the creamy texture of the brownies and the tangy glaze, balancing the richness of the dessert with their light, fruity flavor.

Halved strawberries make an elegant topping, sitting delicately on each brownie, enhancing both the visual presentation and the flavor. As a finishing touch, fresh strawberries provide a crisp texture that contrasts nicely with the softness of the brownies and the creamy glaze. This garnish adds a natural, wholesome element to the dessert, making it even more appealing.

Serving Suggestions: Perfect for Any Occasion

Strawberry Brownies are incredibly versatile and can be served on a variety of occasions. They are perfect for spring and summer gatherings, as the light, fruity flavor feels refreshing and festive. Whether you’re hosting a picnic, a birthday party, or a family dinner, these brownies make a great addition to your dessert table.

These brownies also work well for casual gatherings like brunches or tea parties, where their elegant appearance and delicious flavor will undoubtedly impress guests. They are easy to slice into small, bite-sized pieces, making them perfect for a dessert buffet or for serving at a potluck. Because of their bright, cheerful flavor and simple presentation, they are a fantastic choice for celebrations such as holidays, bridal showers, or any event where you want to serve something light, flavorful, and eye-catching.

Customizations and Variations

While the classic strawberry flavor is delightful, this recipe offers several ways to personalize the brownies. For instance, if you enjoy a more decadent chocolate-strawberry combination, consider adding chocolate chips to the batter or drizzling some melted chocolate over the top of the brownies before garnishing with strawberries.

For a bit of added texture, you can fold in crushed nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, into the batter, giving the brownies a delightful crunch. Another option is to experiment with different fruit jams in the glaze—such as raspberry or apricot—for a unique twist on the original flavor.

For a slightly tangier version, you can substitute the heavy cream with sour cream or Greek yogurt, which would add a creamy, tangy element that balances the sweetness of the strawberries and cake mix. These variations allow you to tailor the recipe to your preferences, ensuring that every batch of Strawberry Brownies feels new and exciting.

Conclusion: A Perfect Springtime Treat

Strawberry Brownies are the ultimate springtime dessert, offering a perfect balance of sweetness, tanginess, and creaminess. The simple ingredients, including strawberry cake mix and cream cheese, come together to create a rich, gooey treat that is both satisfying and delicious. The optional glaze and fresh strawberries on top make the brownies even more irresistible, providing both visual appeal and a burst of refreshing flavor.

The versatility of this recipe allows for countless variations, from adding chocolate chips to experimenting with different fruit jams in the glaze. Whether you serve these brownies at a party, as a quick snack, or as a homemade treat for yourself, they are sure to be a hit. Strawberry Brownies combine ease of preparation with elegant flavors, making them the perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a special celebration or just enjoying a quiet afternoon at home, these brownies will undoubtedly bring a smile to your face.

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