Strawberry Brownies are a fun twist on classic brownies, swapping out the usual chocolate-only flavor for a fresh burst of strawberry sweetness. These brownies have a rich, fudgy texture with vibrant bits of real strawberries mixed right in, making every bite a little surprise of juicy fruitiness.
I love making these because they feel like a special treat that’s both familiar and different. The strawberry adds a bright note that’s just enough to make you smile without overpowering the chocolate. These brownies are perfect when you want something sweet but lighter than the usual dense chocolate version.
My favorite way to enjoy strawberry brownies is slightly warm, maybe with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. They’re great for sharing at picnics, birthday parties, or just when you want to feel a little extra happy with your dessert. Whenever I bring these out, people always ask for the recipe because it’s a fun, unexpected dessert that everyone loves.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Unsalted Butter
- This helps give your brownies that rich, smooth texture. You can swap it for coconut oil if you want a dairy-free version; just use the same amount. I prefer real butter for the best flavor.
- Fresh Strawberries
- They give the strawberry cream layer a true fruity taste. Frozen strawberries work too—just thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture.
- Cream Cheese
- It makes the strawberry layer creamy and smooth. If you want to skip dairy, try a non-dairy cream cheese or Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
- Cocoa Powder
- Unsweetened is best to control the sweetness and create that deep chocolate flavor. You can use natural or Dutch-processed cocoa, but the baking powder amount may vary slightly.
How Do You Get the Strawberry Cream Layer Smooth and Well Set?
The strawberry cream layer is key to this recipe’s charm. Here’s how to make sure it’s creamy and firm enough:
- Puree fresh strawberries until very smooth—this helps avoid lumps in the cream layer.
- Beat softened cream cheese alone first to remove lumps before adding sugar, vanilla, and strawberry puree.
- Mix gently but thoroughly to combine, creating a silky texture.
- Spread the cream layer over warm (not hot) brownies so it settles evenly.
- Chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours to let the cream set properly before slicing.
Patience here really pays off with a neat slice and a nice contrast between fudgy brownie and light strawberry topping!
Equipment You’ll Need
- 8×8-inch baking pan – perfect size for thick, even brownies and easy to cut into squares.
- Parchment paper – makes removing brownies from the pan a breeze without sticking.
- Mixing bowls – you’ll need one for the brownie batter and one for the strawberry cream layer.
- Blender or food processor – quickly purees strawberries smooth for a creamy topping.
- Electric mixer or hand whisk – helps blend the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and fluffy.
- Spatula – perfect for spreading the strawberry layer evenly over the brownies without tearing.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap strawberries for raspberries or cherries in the cream layer for a different but still fresh fruit flavor.
- Add chocolate chips to the brownie batter for extra melty pockets of chocolate in every bite.
- Mix in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the brownie layer for added crunch and nuttiness.
- Flavor the cream layer with a splash of almond extract instead of vanilla for a subtle nutty twist that pairs well with strawberries.
How to Make Strawberry Brownies?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Brownie Layer:
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup (35g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup (65g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
For the Strawberry Cream Layer:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped, plus extra slices for topping
- 1/2 cup (115g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Time You’ll Need:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time, 20-22 minutes to bake the brownie layer, plus at least 2 hours of chilling time to let the strawberry cream set. Plan ahead to enjoy the perfectly chilled, delicious strawberry brownies!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Brownie Layer:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to make removal easy. In a microwave-safe bowl or on the stove, melt the butter completely. Stir in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until everything is well combined. Sift the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder into the wet ingredients, then mix gently until just combined — don’t overmix. Pour this batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly.
2. Bake the Brownies:
Bake the batter for about 20-22 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with moist crumbs but not wet batter. Once baked, take the brownies out and let them cool for a few minutes.
3. Make the Strawberry Cream Layer:
While the brownies bake, puree your fresh strawberries in a blender or food processor until smooth. In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sugar and vanilla extract, mixing well. Then stir in the strawberry puree until fully combined and silky-smooth.
4. Assemble and Chill:
Spread the strawberry cream layer evenly over the warm brownie base. Decorate the top with extra sliced strawberries for a pretty finish. Place the entire pan in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until the strawberry layer is firm and set.
5. Serve:
Once chilled and firm, cut the strawberry brownies into squares. Serve them chilled or at room temperature and enjoy your fresh, fruity twist on classic brownies!
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before pureeing to avoid a watery strawberry layer.
How Should I Store Leftover Strawberry Brownies?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to keep the strawberry cream fresh and the brownies moist.
Can I Make These Brownies Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can bake the brownies and prepare the strawberry cream layer a day ahead. Just assemble and chill before serving to let the flavors meld.
Can I Substitute Cream Cheese in the Strawberry Layer?
You can swap cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a lighter option, but expect a tangier flavor and slightly different texture.