If you’re craving a decadent treat that combines the rich, indulgent taste of chocolate with the sweet, refreshing flavor of strawberries, these Strawberry Brownies are the perfect solution. A fudgy, chocolatey base loaded with chocolate chips and freeze-dried strawberries is topped with a luscious strawberry frosting, creating a dessert that’s irresistible. Whether you’re serving them for a special occasion or simply treating yourself, these brownies will surely satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you craving more.
The balance between the deep chocolate flavor in the brownie and the bright, fruity strawberry topping makes each bite a delightful experience. The addition of freeze-dried strawberries in both the brownie and the frosting intensifies the strawberry flavor without overwhelming the chocolate. If you love the combination of fruit and chocolate, these strawberry brownies are a must-try!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Perfect Balance of Flavors
The combination of rich chocolate brownies with sweet strawberry frosting creates the perfect balance of fruity and chocolaty goodness.
2. Unique Twist on Classic Brownies
These brownies offer a fun twist on the classic chocolate brownie by adding the vibrant flavor of strawberries in both the base and frosting.
3. Perfect Texture
The brownies are fudgy and moist, with the melt-in-your-mouth goodness of chocolate chips, while the strawberry frosting adds a creamy, smooth finish.
4. Easy to Make
This recipe uses simple ingredients and is quick to prepare, making it ideal for both novice bakers and seasoned pros looking for an easy yet impressive treat.
5. Versatile Dessert
These strawberry brownies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering, making a special dessert for a family dinner, or simply indulging in a homemade sweet treat.
Ingredients
For the Brownies:
- Unsalted butter (melted)
- Granulated sugar
- Eggs
- Water
- Pure vanilla extract
- Unsweetened cocoa powder
- Powdered sugar
- All-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
- Kosher salt
- Milk chocolate chips
- Freeze-dried strawberries
- Strawberry jam or preserves
For the Strawberry Frosting:
- Freeze-dried strawberries
- Unsalted butter (softened)
- Powdered sugar
- Pure vanilla extract
- Strawberry jam
- Milk
Variations
- Different Types of Chocolate: Swap the milk chocolate chips with dark chocolate chips or white chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
- Fruit Alternatives: If strawberries aren’t your thing, try raspberries, blueberries, or even cherries for a fruity twist on the frosting.
- Nuts: Add a handful of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the brownie batter for extra texture.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make the brownies gluten-free without sacrificing taste.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal of the brownies once they’re baked.
Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the water and vanilla extract.
Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients
Sift the cocoa powder, powdered sugar, all-purpose flour, and kosher salt into the wet ingredients. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Step 4: Fold in the Chocolate and Strawberries
Fold in the milk chocolate chips and freeze-dried strawberries until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 5: Bake the Brownies
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan.
Step 6: Make the Strawberry Frosting
While the brownies are cooling, make the strawberry frosting. In a food processor or blender, pulse the freeze-dried strawberries until they are finely ground. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, strawberry jam, and milk until smooth and creamy. Stir in the ground freeze-dried strawberries until fully incorporated.
Step 7: Frost the Brownies
Once the brownies have cooled, spread a generous layer of strawberry frosting over the top. Use a spatula to smooth the frosting evenly over the surface of the brownies.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Cut the brownies into squares and serve. These brownies are perfect for any occasion, or simply as a sweet treat to satisfy your chocolate cravings.
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Allow the Brownies to Cool Completely: Make sure the brownies are fully cooled before frosting them, as warm brownies could cause the frosting to melt and slide off.
- Use Room Temperature Butter for the Frosting: Ensure that your butter is softened to room temperature for a smooth and easy-to-mix frosting.
- Freeze-Dried Strawberries: If you can’t find freeze-dried strawberries, you can substitute with fresh strawberries, but they won’t have the same concentrated flavor.
- Check for Doneness: Oven temperatures can vary, so start checking the brownies at 25 minutes to avoid overbaking. The brownies should be slightly firm to the touch and have a crackly top.
How to Serve
Serve these strawberry brownies at room temperature or slightly chilled. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat. They’re also delicious with a fresh glass of milk or a hot cup of coffee.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you want to keep them fresh for a longer period, refrigerate them for up to a week.
Freezing
To freeze the brownies, first cut them into squares and place them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze for an hour, then transfer the brownies to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating
If you prefer warm brownies, heat them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of freeze-dried strawberries?
Frozen strawberries won’t work well in the frosting, as they contain too much moisture. Freeze-dried strawberries provide a concentrated flavor without adding extra liquid.
2. Can I use a different type of jam for the frosting?
Yes, you can use raspberry jam, blueberry jam, or any other fruit preserve that you prefer. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly.
3. Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake and frost the brownies a day ahead. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for the best texture.
4. Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
You can make these brownies gluten-free by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. The texture and flavor will remain delicious.
5. How do I store leftover brownies?
Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
6. Can I add other mix-ins to the brownies?
Yes, feel free to add other mix-ins like chopped nuts, more chocolate chips, or even a swirl of caramel for added richness.
7. Can I make the brownies without frosting?
Yes, you can enjoy the brownies on their own without the strawberry frosting. The brownies are delicious as they are!
8. Can I use a different type of chocolate for the brownies?
Yes, you can use dark chocolate or white chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate chips, depending on your preference.
9. Can I use fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried strawberries in the brownie batter?
You can, but be sure to chop them up and pat them dry before adding them to the batter. Fresh strawberries have a high water content, which may affect the texture of the brownies.
10. How long do the brownies stay fresh?
The brownies stay fresh for up to 4 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
These Strawberry Brownies are the perfect combination of rich, fudgy chocolate and fresh, fruity strawberry flavor. The chocolate brownie base is indulgent and moist, while the strawberry frosting adds a refreshing sweetness that perfectly complements the chocolate. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just treating yourself, these brownies are sure to be a hit with everyone.
Print
Strawberry Brownies
- Total Time: 1 hour (including cooling and frosting time)
- Yield: 16 brownies 1x
Description
These fudgy brownies are taken to the next level with the addition of freeze-dried strawberries and a delicious strawberry jam-infused frosting. A perfect balance of chocolatey richness and fruity sweetness, making for a treat everyone will love.
Ingredients
For the Brownies
- ½ cup melted unsalted butter
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon water
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¾ cup chocolate chips (milk chocolate preferred)
- ½ cup freeze-dried strawberries
- Generous ¼ cup strawberry jam or preserves
For the Strawberry Frosting
- ½ cup freeze-dried strawberries
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- ¼ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon strawberry jam
- 1 tablespoon milk
Instructions
- Make the Brownies:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch square baking pan.
In a large bowl, combine the melted butter and granulated sugar. Mix until smooth.
Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the water and vanilla extract.
In another bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, powdered sugar, flour, and kosher salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
Fold in the chocolate chips and freeze-dried strawberries, then spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
Drop spoonfuls of strawberry jam over the brownie batter and swirl gently with a knife for a marbled effect.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan. - Make the Strawberry Frosting:
In a food processor, pulse the freeze-dried strawberries until they are finely ground into a powder.
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Add the powdered sugar, ground freeze-dried strawberries, vanilla extract, strawberry jam, and milk. Beat until smooth and fluffy. - Assemble:
Once the brownies have cooled, spread the strawberry frosting evenly over the top of the brownies.
Cut into squares and serve!
Notes
- If you prefer a stronger strawberry flavor, add extra freeze-dried strawberries to the frosting.
- For a smoother frosting, make sure to sift the powdered sugar and ground strawberries before mixing.
- These brownies are perfect for gifting or serving at a party. The frosting can also be stored in the fridge for up to a week, so you can make it ahead of time.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Brownies
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Strawberry brownies, chocolate brownies, strawberry frosting, freeze-dried strawberries, jam brownies, fudgy brownies