This recipe for Strawberry Brownies is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser with its blush-pink hue, chewy centers, and a dreamy layer of fruity icing on top. Imagine the charm of strawberries and cream in an impossibly simple brownie form that no one can resist. You’ll need just a handful of accessible ingredients, and the results are pure springtime joy—whether you’re looking for a bake sale hit, a fun family project, or a sweet treat to brighten any weekend.

Strawberry Brownies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Strawberry Brownies recipe is how effortless the ingredient list is—each one truly shines. Let’s break down what makes every component essential to the magic happen, from luscious color to the tender-crumb base and glossy, fruity glaze.

Strawberry cake mix: The secret shortcut for instant berry flavor and that signature pastel pink color (I use Pillsbury for foolproof results, but any with pudding in the mix works wonders).

Eggs: Add richness and structure, helping turn the mix into dense, chewy brownies rather than cake.
Vegetable or canola oil: Keeps the brownies moist and fudgy rather than dry or cakey—don’t skimp!

Vanilla extract: Elevates the berry flavor, making everything taste like classic bakery treats.
Powdered sugar: For that satiny, sweet frosting layer.

Strawberry preserves: Real berry jam brings an authentic, tangy strawberry punch to the frosting (Bonne Maman always gets rave reviews in my kitchen).
Milk: Helps create a pourable frosting you can easily spread across the brownies.
Cream cheese (optional): Adds a subtle tang and extra creaminess to the icing—feel free to leave it out if you prefer a straight-sweet glaze.

How to Make Strawberry Brownies

Step 1: Prep the Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F. Spray an 8×8 baking pan with nonstick spray, or line it with foil or parchment paper for nonstick insurance (personally, I love parchment for easy lifting and clean-up!). Set aside—your pan is ready and waiting for all that strawberry batter.

Step 2: Mix the Strawberry Brownie Batter

Grab a large mixing bowl and empty in the strawberry cake mix. Add the eggs, oil, and vanilla extract. You can use a stand mixer, hand mixer, or even a sturdy spoon. The batter will be thick and sticky—don’t worry, that’s what creates ultra chewy Strawberry Brownies! Make sure everything is well combined and no dry pockets remain.

Step 3: Spread and Bake

Transfer the batter into your prepared pan and use a silicone spatula or your hands (lightly greased) to press it evenly into the corners. Bake for 18–22 minutes, watching closely near the end—they should be just set, not dry. A toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before adding the frosting.

Step 4: Make the Strawberry Frosting

In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, strawberry preserves, milk, and cream cheese if you’re using it. Stir until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust consistency by adding a splash more milk if needed—it should be thick but easy to spread.

Step 5: Frost and Finish

Once the brownies are cool, generously spread the strawberry frosting over the top with a spatula. Let the icing set for about 10–15 minutes before slicing into bars. Each bite is a celebration of sweet strawberry flavor!

How to Serve Strawberry Brownies

Garnishes

Take your Strawberry Brownies up a notch by showering them with fresh sliced strawberries, a light dusting of powdered sugar, or a drizzle of melted white chocolate. Even a few sprinkles can make every bar look festive and fun—perfect for birthdays, baby showers, or anytime you want to make dessert feel extra special.

Side Dishes

Pair these brownies with a scoop of vanilla bean or strawberry ice cream for a truly indulgent dessert, or serve alongside a glass of ice-cold milk for classic comfort. For something a little different, a dollop of whipped cream or a spoonful of Greek yogurt on the side can balance the sweet tang of the Strawberry Brownies beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut into bite-sized squares for party platters, assemble into brownie “sandwiches” with cream cheese frosting in the center, or even use cookie cutters to create heart or star shapes for holidays. The vibrant pink color always draws attention, whether you’re stacking them on a cake stand or wrapping bars in parchment and twine for edible gifts.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Strawberry Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They stay wonderfully chewy and flavorful, and the frosting keeps everything extra moist. If your kitchen is particularly warm, you can refrigerate to extend freshness, just let them come to room temperature before serving for the softest bite.

Freezing

These brownies freeze surprisingly well! Place cut bars, unfrosted or frosted, on a baking sheet to freeze solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature, then enjoy as-is or refresh with a new layer of frosting for special occasions.

Reheating

If you like your Strawberry Brownies just a little warm (especially with ice cream), give individual bars a quick 10-second zap in the microwave. This slightly softens the frosting and brings back that fresh-baked flavor. Just be careful not to overheat, as the icing may melt quickly.

FAQs

Can I use a different brand of strawberry cake mix?

Absolutely! Any strawberry cake mix that includes pudding in the mix will give you chewy, fudgy brownies with plenty of berry flavor. I usually use Pillsbury for consistency, but Betty Crocker and Duncan Hines are also great choices—just avoid brands without pudding for best texture.

Can I make Strawberry Brownies without cream cheese in the frosting?

Yes, the cream cheese is totally optional. It adds a touch of tang, but the frosting is still deliciously sweet and smooth with just strawberry preserves, powdered sugar, and milk. If you skip the cream cheese, you might want to use a little less milk for a thicker result.

How do I know when the Strawberry Brownies are done baking?

Bake until the edges look set and a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs attached—don’t overbake, or the brownies can dry out. Every oven is a little different, so start checking at 18 minutes for that quintessential chewy texture.

Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?

You sure can! Simply double all the ingredients and bake in a 9×13 inch pan. The baking time will be slightly longer—check for doneness starting around 25 minutes. The more the merrier when it comes to delicious Strawberry Brownies!

What’s the best way to cut neat brownie squares?

Let the brownies and frosting set completely, then use a large, sharp knife wiped clean between cuts. If the frosting sticks, dipping your knife in hot water and drying it off will help achieve clean, picture-perfect squares every time.

Final Thoughts

There’s something irresistible about sharing homemade Strawberry Brownies—every time I bake them, they disappear in a flash! If you’re looking for a treat that’s easy to make, gorgeous to serve, and bursting with nostalgic, sweet-tart berry flavor, give this recipe a try. Don’t be surprised if it becomes your new signature dessert!

Strawberry Brownies Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 20 reviews

Author: lina
Total Time: 30 minutes

Yield: 9 brownies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

These Strawberry Brownies are a delightful twist on traditional brownies, featuring a moist strawberry cake base topped with a luscious strawberry frosting. Perfect for any strawberry lover!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Brownies:

1 box strawberry cake mix with pudding in the mix
2 large eggs
1/3 cup vegetable or canola oil

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Frosting:

3/4 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons strawberry preserves

1 ½ tablespoons milk
1 tablespoon cream cheese (optional)

Instructions

Preheat oven and prepare pan: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Prepare an 8×8 pan by spraying with nonstick spray or lining with foil.

Mix & Bake: In a large bowl, combine strawberry cake mix, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract. Press the mixture into the prepared pan and bake for 18-22 minutes until just done. Allow to cool completely.
Make the Strawberry Brownie Frosting: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, strawberry preserves, cream cheese (if using), and milk. Spread this frosting over the cooled brownies.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking

Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 brownie
Calories: 230

Sugar: 22g
Sodium: 210mg
Fat: 9g

Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g

Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 2g

Cholesterol: 31mg

Keywords: Strawberry Brownies, Strawberry Cake Mix Brownies, Dessert Recipe, Strawberry Dessert