These strawberry brownies are a heavenly mix of rich chocolate and fresh strawberries. They’re fudgy, fruity, and perfect for any sweet tooth!
Who can resist brownies? When you add strawberries, it’s like a little party in your mouth! I love enjoying these with a scoop of ice cream on top—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Strawberries: The star of this recipe! Puree them for a fruity flavor. If you can’t find fresh strawberries, frozen strawberries (thawed and dried) will work well too. You can also use other berries like raspberries or blueberries for a different taste.
Granulated Sugar: This helps sweeten the brownies. If you want a healthier option, you could substitute half with coconut sugar or use honey, but keep in mind that it might change the texture slightly.
Butter: Melted butter gives moisture and richness. If you prefer a dairy-free version, you can use coconut oil or a plant-based butter. Both options will melt nicely and still taste great.
Eggs: They help bind the brownies together. For a vegan twist, you can replace each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water.
Powdered Sugar: This is for the glaze. If you want to make it sugar-free, you can blend powdered monk fruit sweetener or other sugar substitutes to achieve a similar texture.
How Do I Make Sure My Brownies Are Moist and Not Overcooked?
The key to gooey, moist brownies is not to overbake them. Start by keeping an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs, not completely clean. Here’s how to check:
- Set the timer for 25 minutes and check for doneness.
- If the toothpick comes out mostly clean, take them out! They’ll keep cooking in the pan.
- Let them cool before cutting. This helps them set perfectly.
Trust your instincts; it’s better to take them out a bit early than too late for that delicious fudgy texture!
How to Make Delicious Strawberry Brownies!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Brownies:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed (about 8-10 strawberries)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Glaze:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
- Optional: a few drops of red food coloring for a deeper color
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus 25-30 minutes baking time. Don’t forget to allow some time for the brownies to cool after baking. Total time will be around 1 hour before serving!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is warming up, grease and flour an 8×8 inch baking pan. This will help the brownies come out easily after baking!
2. Mix the Strawberry Base:
In a large mixing bowl, take your pureed strawberries and combine them with the granulated sugar and melted butter. Stir everything together very well until it’s smooth and nicely blended.
3. Add Eggs and Flavor:
Next, crack the two large eggs into your strawberry mixture and add the vanilla extract. Whisk everything together until it’s fully mixed. It should look fluffy and inviting!
4. Combine Dry Ingredients:
Now, take a separate bowl and whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet strawberry mixture. Stir gently until everything is just combined—don’t over mix!
5. Bake the Brownies:
Pour the brownie batter into your prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. Pop it into the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. To check if they’re done, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean!
6. Prepare the Glaze:
While the brownies are baking, mix the powdered sugar with 2 to 3 tablespoons of milk in a small bowl until it’s smooth. If you want, add a few drops of red food coloring for a lovely color!
7. Glaze and Cool:
Once the brownies are out of the oven and have cooled for about 10 minutes, spread the glaze over the top while they’re still warm. Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Your delicious Strawberry Brownies are now ready to be enjoyed! Cut them into squares, serve, and delight everyone with this sweet treat!
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain off any excess liquid before pureeing. This will help maintain the right consistency in your brownie batter.
Can I Substitute the Butter with Oil?
Absolutely! You can substitute the melted butter with an equal amount of vegetable oil or coconut oil. This will give the brownies a slightly different texture but still keep them moist and delicious.
How Should I Store Leftover Brownies?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn!
What Other Fruits Can I Use in This Recipe?
You can get creative! Other fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or even mashed bananas can be substituted for strawberries. Just adjust the sugar levels slightly if the fruit is sweeter or less sweet than strawberries.
