Indulge in Strawberry Shortcake Brownies
If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that beautifully blends the chewy satisfaction of brownies with the fresh, summery flavor of strawberry shortcake, these Strawberry Shortcake Brownies will become your new go-to treat. Ideal for gatherings, picnics, or just a cozy night in, this easy and delicious recipe elevates the classic brownie experience with layers of whipped cream and juicy strawberries. The best part? It requires minimal ingredients and comes together in no time, making it perfect for those spontaneous dessert cravings!
Reasons to try it
There are countless reasons to whip up this recipe. For starters, it’s incredibly quick to make, perfect for those evenings when you need a sweet treat in a hurry. Using just a box of brownie mix cuts down on prep time, while the fresh strawberries and whipped cream add a vibrant twist that transforms a typical brownie into a showstopper dessert.
Don’t just take my word for it—here’s what one recent fan had to say about these delightful brownies:
"These Strawberry Shortcake Brownies were a hit at our family reunion! They’re easy to make and just as tasty as they look. The strawberries add such a refreshing flavor!"
Perfect for summer gatherings, holidays, or even a special weeknight dinner, these brownies are sure to impress anyone lucky enough to taste them.
Step-by-step overview
Making Strawberry Shortcake Brownies is a straightforward process that even beginner bakers can manage! In just a few simple steps, you’ll create a decadent treat that melds the rich taste of chocolate brownies with the lightness of a strawberry shortcake. All you need is to bake your brownies, cool them down, and then layer on the toppings—easy peasy!
What you’ll need
Gather these items to create your delicious Strawberry Shortcake Brownies:
- 1 box brownie mix
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup whipped cream or frosting
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Feel free to swap the vegetable oil for coconut oil for a hint of tropical flavor, or use a sugar-free brownie mix if you’re looking for a healthier alternative!
Step-by-step instructions
Now let’s get into the action! Here’s how to prepare your delectable Strawberry Shortcake Brownies:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the brownie mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and water. Stir until well blended.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan.
- After cooling, top the brownies generously with whipped cream or frosting.
- Layer on the sliced strawberries for a fresh touch.
- If desired, dust with powdered sugar just before serving for that perfect finishing touch.
- Finally, cut into squares and enjoy!
Best ways to enjoy it
Strawberry Shortcake Brownies are delicious on their own, but you can elevate your presentation even further. Serve them on a beautiful platter, perhaps alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. Fresh mint leaves can also make a lovely garnish that adds a pop of color and flavor! For a complete dessert experience, consider pairing these brownies with a chilled glass of sweet iced tea or a fruity lemonade.
Storage and reheating tips
Storing your leftover Strawberry Shortcake Brownies is simple. Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator where they will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. If you’d like to enjoy them later, freeze the brownies before adding the toppings. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and they’ll keep well for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw them in the fridge and add the fresh toppings right before serving!
Helpful cooking tips
Here are some extra tips to ensure your Strawberry Shortcake Brownies turn out perfectly:
- For extra fudgy brownies, avoid overbaking; aim for slightly underdone if you like a gooey texture.
- Make sure your whipped cream is well-whipped for added stability, especially if you’ll be serving these brownies for a party.
- Experiment with flavored whipped toppings, such as strawberry or vanilla, to complement the flavors of your brownies.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Try making variations on this classic recipe by adding chocolate chips to the brownie batter for a richer taste or swapping out the strawberries for other seasonal fruits like raspberries or peaches. For a more decadent version, consider drizzling a chocolate ganache over the top right before adding your whipped cream. The possibilities are endless!
Common questions
How long do these brownies take to make?
From start to finish, you can expect to spend about 30-40 minutes, including baking time!
Can I substitute the eggs in this recipe?
Yes! You can use applesauce or a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons of water = 1 egg) as a substitute if you’re looking for an egg-free option.
How should I store leftover brownies?
Keep the brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage; they’re perfect for a make-ahead dessert!
Strawberry Shortcake Brownies
Ingredients
Brownie Base
- 1 box brownie mix Use your favorite brand.
- 2 large eggs Can substitute with applesauce for an egg-free option.
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil Can swap for coconut oil for tropical flavor.
- 1/4 cup water
Toppings
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced Substitute with seasonal fruits if desired.
- 1 cup whipped cream or frosting Make sure whipped cream is well-whipped for stability.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- to taste powdered sugar for dusting Optional, for serving.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the brownie mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and water. Stir until well blended.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan.
Assembly
- After cooling, top the brownies generously with whipped cream or frosting.
- Layer on the sliced strawberries for a fresh touch.
- If desired, dust with powdered sugar just before serving for that perfect finishing touch.
- Finally, cut into squares and enjoy!