These strawberry brownies are a fun twist on the classic treat! With gooey chocolate and fresh strawberries, they are sure to please your sweet tooth.
Picture this: rich chocolate and juicy strawberries all in one bite! I love serving these when friends come over. They disappear fast—just like my last slice! 🍓🍫
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-purpose flour: This is the base for your brownies, giving them structure. If you need a gluten-free option, almond flour or a gluten-free blend can work well, but the texture may vary slightly.
Strawberry puree: You can use fresh strawberries or canned puree. If you can’t find strawberry puree, try using mashed bananas or applesauce for a different fruit flavor, though it will change the taste!
Unsalted butter: Melted unsalted butter is essential for moisture and richness. You can substitute it with coconut oil or vegetable oil if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
Granulated sugar: This sweetness balances the tartness of the strawberries. If you’re looking to cut down on sugar, you can use coconut sugar or a sugar alternative like agave syrup. You may need to adjust the liquid proportions in the recipe.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Texture for My Brownies?
Getting the texture just right for your brownies is all about mixing and baking time. Don’t over-mix the batter once you combine wet and dry ingredients, as this can lead to tough brownies. Here are some tips:
- Mix until just combined. It’s okay if there are a few small lumps.
- Watch your baking time closely! Start checking at 20 minutes. A toothpick should come out clean but moist.
- Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting. This helps them set and makes them easier to slice.
How to Make Strawberry Brownies?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Brownies:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup strawberry puree (fresh or canned)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Frosting:
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- Optional: pink sprinkles for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to bake. After baking, you’ll need to let the brownies cool for about 10 minutes before frosting them. Overall, you’ll spend roughly 40-45 minutes in total, and then you can enjoy your delicious creation!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Next, take an 8×8 inch baking pan and grease it with cooking spray, or you can line it with parchment paper. This will help the brownies come out easily once they’re baked.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and granulated sugar. Stir these two ingredients together until they are well blended. Then, add the strawberry puree, eggs, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix everything together until it’s smooth and creamy.
3. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This step ensures that the baking powder is evenly distributed throughout the flour, which helps your brownies rise properly.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Be gentle and mix just until everything is combined—don’t over-mix, or your brownies might become tough.
5. Bake the Brownies:
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly. Bake in your preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies; if it comes out clean, they’re ready!
6. Cool the Brownies:
Once baked, allow the brownies to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. After that, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them set up nicely.
7. Make the Frosting:
While the brownies are cooling, you can prepare the frosting. In a bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk until smooth. If you want a thicker frosting, use less milk; for a thinner frosting, just add a bit more.
8. Frost and Finish:
When the brownies are completely cool, spread the frosting over the top. If you’re feeling festive, sprinkle some pink sprinkles on top for a fun touch. Finally, cut the brownies into squares and serve them up!
Enjoy your delightful Strawberry Brownies!
Can I Use Fresh Strawberries Instead of Puree?
Absolutely! If you prefer using fresh strawberries, puree about 1/2 cup of ripe strawberries in a blender or food processor. Just make sure to strain it to remove any seeds and use it as a substitute for the strawberry puree in the recipe.
How Can I Make These Brownies Gluten-Free?
You can easily make these brownies gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Be sure to check the blend’s package for any additional recommendations regarding liquid adjustments since some may absorb moisture differently than regular flour.
Can I Store Leftover Brownies?
Yes! Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them well in plastic wrap before freezing to prevent freezer burn.
What Can I Use Instead of Butter for a Dairy-Free Option?
If you want to make these brownies dairy-free, you can substitute the unsalted butter with an equal amount of coconut oil, vegetable oil, or a dairy-free butter alternative. Just ensure the substitute is melted before mixing it into the batter!
