These strawberry brownies are a tasty twist on a classic treat! They combine rich chocolatey goodness with fresh, juicy strawberries for a delightful flavor.
Every bite feels like a celebration! I usually serve them warm with a scoop of ice cream on top. Trust me, your friends will come back for more! 🍓🍫
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Strawberry Puree: Fresh strawberries are the star here! You can use frozen strawberries too; just thaw and blend them. If strawberries aren’t available, try using other berries like raspberries or blueberries for a different taste.
Butter: Unsalted butter is great for controlling the salt level in your brownies. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, substitute with coconut oil or a plant-based butter. I’ve used coconut oil, and it adds a nice hint of flavor!
White Chocolate Chips: These are optional but add a nice creaminess. If you prefer dark chocolate, feel free to swap white chocolate chips for dark or semi-sweet chips. You can also skip chocolate entirely for a pure strawberry flavor.
Powdered Sugar: This is used for the icing. If you need a sugar-free version, try powdered erythritol. It won’t have the same thickness but will still sweeten your icing.
How Do I Ensure My Brownies Stay Moist and Fudgy?
Getting brownies just right can be tricky. The key is not to overmix the batter and to keep an eye on the baking time. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your oven properly so your brownies bake evenly.
- When mixing, fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture gently until just combined; a few small lumps are okay.
- Check the brownies a few minutes before the timer goes off. They should be set at the edges but still slightly soft in the center.
- Let them cool completely in the pan, as this helps them firm up without drying out.
How to Make Strawberry Brownies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Brownies:
- 1 cup strawberry puree (about 1 cup fresh strawberries blended)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional)
For the Icing:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Food coloring (optional, for extra pink color)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. After baking, let the brownies cool completely, which may take about 30 minutes. Overall, set aside about an hour to get these delicious strawberry brownies ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, greasing and lining an 8×8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper will help you easily remove the brownies later.
2. Make the Brownie Batter:
In a mixing bowl, mix together the strawberry puree, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until it’s well combined. Then, add in the eggs and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is nice and smooth.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet mixture, folding gently until just combined. If you’d like, fold in the white chocolate chips for an extra treat!
4. Bake the Brownies:
Pour the brownie batter into your prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. To check if they’re done, insert a toothpick in the center. It should come out mostly clean, with just a few moist crumbs being okay.
5. Prepare the Icing:
While your brownies are baking, make the icing! In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. If you want your icing to have a brighter pink color, feel free to add a few drops of food coloring.
6. Cool and Icing Time:
After the brownies are baked, let them cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, drizzle or spread the icing over the top to make them look lovely and taste even better!
7. Cut and Serve:
Finally, cut the brownies into squares and serve. Enjoy your delightful strawberry brownies that are perfect for any occasion!
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries for the Puree?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the frozen strawberries first. You can do this overnight in the fridge or quickly in the microwave. Once thawed, drain any excess liquid before blending to ensure your puree has the right consistency.
How to Store Leftover Brownies?
Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to 3 months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Can I Substitute the All-Purpose Flour?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a substitute for regular flour. Make sure the blend you choose includes xanthan gum, which helps maintain the texture. Start with the same measurement and adjust as needed for the desired consistency.
How Can I Make the Icing Thicker?
If you prefer a thicker icing, simply add more powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Alternatively, you can reduce the amount of milk. Just keep mixing until smooth to avoid lumps!