There’s a certain joy that comes from baking, filling the kitchen with warm, inviting scents that whisk you away to a cozy haven. When I first combined fresh strawberries with rich, velvety chocolate in a brownie recipe, the result was nothing short of transformative. These enchanting Strawberry Brownies, adorned with a luscious white chocolate ganache, have since become my go-to dessert for gatherings and special occasions. The vibrant pink hue is just as captivating as the taste—each bite offers a delightful blend of fudgy goodness and fruity sweetness that’s perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself after a long day.
What I love most about these strawberry brownies is how effortlessly they can elevate any occasion, whether it’s a romantic dinner, a cheerful picnic, or a festive holiday celebration. The best part? Despite their stunning presentation, they’re remarkably easy to whip up, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you crave something extraordinary. Ready to be enchanted by this quick yet sophisticated delight? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why are Strawberry Brownies a Must-Try?
Irresistible: These strawberry brownies are not just a dessert; they are a visual and culinary masterpiece that will captivate your guests.
Playful Twist: Infusing fresh strawberries gives traditional chocolate brownies a fruity twist, making them a unique variation on a classic favorite.
Easy to Make: You don’t need to be a baking expert to impress with these! The straightforward process allows anyone to create bakery-quality treats.
Versatile: Perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to fancy gatherings, these brownies are a crowd-pleaser that everyone will adore.
Delicious Pairing: Pair them with vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence, or enjoy them on their own—either way, your taste buds will thank you!
Feel free to explore other fascinating recipes for sweet delights while you’re here!
Strawberry Brownie Ingredients
• Let’s gather what you’ll need to create these delectable treats!
For the Brownies
- Fresh or Frozen Strawberries – Fresh strawberries yield a better texture and flavor in these strawberry brownies.
- Granulated Sugar (50 g for puree, 250 g for brownies) – Adds delightful sweetness; feel free to swap with coconut sugar for a healthier alternative.
- Pure Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor profile; consider using vanilla bean paste for a more robust taste.
- Lemon Zest and Juice – Adds a touch of acidity to balance the sweetness; orange zest works well as a milder substitute.
- Kosher Salt – Intensifies overall flavors; a moderate amount is key to preventing oversaturation.
- Unsalted Butter – Brings moisture and richness; coconut oil can be used for a dairy-free alternative.
- White Chocolate Melts (170 g for batter, 240 g for ganache) – Gives a creamy richness; dairy-free white chocolate is an excellent substitute.
- Large Egg and Egg Yolk – Provides structure and moisture; replace with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce per egg if needed.
- Freeze-Dried Strawberries (optional) – Offers concentrated strawberry flavor and vibrant color; crushed nuts add a delightful crunch alternative.
- All-Purpose Flour – Gives the brownies structure; use a gluten-free blend for those with dietary restrictions.
- Baking Powder – Helps the brownies rise and achieve their fluffy texture; ensure your baking powder is fresh for the best results.
- Pink Gel Food Coloring – Enhances the pink hue for visual appeal; omit it for a natural look, or use beet powder for coloring.
For the Ganache
- Heavy Cream – Provides the creaminess needed in the ganache; substitute with coconut cream for a vegan option.
For Topping (optional)
- Fresh Strawberries – Adds freshness and decoration; feel free to swap with other fruits or edible flowers for a beautiful finish.
These ingredients will come together to create a dessert that is not only visually stunning but also absolutely delightful to savor—an enticing epitome of strawberry brownies!
How to Make Strawberry Brownies
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Prepare Strawberry Puree: Cook the fresh or frozen strawberries in a saucepan with 50 g of sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice for 15-20 minutes until thickened. Blend until smooth for a luscious base.
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Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal after baking.
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Melt Chocolate and Butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 170 g of white chocolate melts and unsalted butter. Heat in 30-second increments, stirring in between, until completely smooth and melted.
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Mix Eggs and Sugar: Using a mixer, beat the large egg and egg yolk with 250 g of granulated sugar and optional freeze-dried strawberries until the mixture is airy and light in color.
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Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the strawberry puree and melted chocolate into the egg mixture. Then, sift in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and pink gel food coloring. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix!
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Bake Brownies: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned and a toothpick comes out clean.
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Prepare Ganache: While the brownies cool, heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until steaming, then mix in 240 g of white chocolate melts. Stir until smooth and glossy, then combine with the cooled strawberry puree.
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Finish Brownies: Once the brownies have cooled, spread the creamy ganache evenly across the top. Garnish with fresh strawberries and optionally sprinkle with freeze-dried strawberry powder for an extra touch!
Optional: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly decadent dessert experience!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Brownies
Room Temperature: Store your strawberry brownies at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness. Avoid adding fresh fruit toppings until just before serving to prevent sogginess.
Fridge: For longer storage, keep brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying for the best flavor and texture.
Freezer: Freeze your strawberry brownies wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: If you prefer your brownies warm, gently reheat them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. Enjoy these strawberry brownies as a cozy treat any time!
Strawberry Brownies Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to play around with this recipe and enjoy unique twists that tickle your taste buds!
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Berry Swap: Replace strawberries with raspberries or blueberries for a delightful twist. Each berry brings its own sweet-tart charm that elevates the brownie experience.
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Nutty Crunch: Add chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, to the batter for additional texture and flavor depth. Nutty bites harmonize beautifully with the fudgy brownie base.
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Vegan Delight: Substitute eggs with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for the ganache. These small tweaks create a vegan-friendly dessert that everyone will love.
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Chocolate Variation: Introduce a swirl of melted dark chocolate into the brownie batter. This adds a rich, deep chocolate flavor that complements the fruity essence perfectly.
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Citrus Zing: Swap lemon zest for orange zest in both the brownie batter and ganache. The citrus note enhances the overall flavor, providing a refreshing lift to every bite.
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Flour Alternatives: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version. This ensures that gluten-sensitive friends can also partake in the indulgence.
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Flavor Elevation: Incorporate flavored extracts, like almond or mint, into the brownie batter for an unexpected flavor boost that surprises the palate.
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Decadent Layers: Transform the brownies into a layered cake by stacking them with layers of ganache and fruit. It’s a showstopper that’s perfect for celebrations!
Expert Tips for Strawberry Brownies
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Choose Fresh Strawberries: Fresh strawberries not only enhance the flavor but also contribute to a better texture in your strawberry brownies. Avoid using frozen if possible.
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Watch the Baking Time: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your brownies as they bake. Check for doneness with a toothpick around the 30-minute mark to prevent overbaking.
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Cool Before Ganache: Let the brownies cool completely before spreading on the ganache; otherwise, the ganache may melt and slide off, ruining your stunning strawberry brownies.
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Be Gentle When Mixing: Overmixing can lead to dense brownies. Fold the ingredients until just combined for a lighter, fudgier texture.
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Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to experiment with different toppings after adding the ganache. Fresh fruits, edible flowers, or a sprinkle of nuts can add visual appeal and flavor.
What to Serve with Strawberry Brownies?
Indulging in strawberry brownies opens the door to exciting pairing possibilities that can elevate your dessert experience!
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy richness complements the fudgy texture, balancing the sweetness of the brownies perfectly. A scoop on the side is simply a must!
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Fresh Berries: A medley of fresh raspberries or blueberries adds a tart contrast to the brownies’ sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor profile with a burst of freshness.
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Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over your brownies introduces a decadent, gooey element that makes each bite pure bliss. It’s a chocolate lover’s dream!
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream serves as a fluffy counterpoint, accentuating the strawberry notes while offering a light and airy contrast.
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Mint Leaves: A sprinkle of fresh mint can bring a revitalizing touch to your dessert plate, offering vibrant color and a hint of coolness that pairs beautifully with the strawberry flavor.
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Sparkling Lemonade: Sip on refreshing sparkling lemonade that balances the richness of the brownies with its citrusy zing. It’s a delightful way to cleanse your palate!
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Coffee or Espresso: A cup of freshly brewed coffee enhances the chocolate notes of the brownies, creating a perfect pairing for a cozy afternoon treat.
These delightful options will undoubtedly transform your strawberry brownies into a memorable dessert experience!
Make Ahead Options
These Strawberry Brownies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights. You can prepare the strawberry puree up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its vibrant flavor and prevent browning. Additionally, the brownie batter can be mixed ahead of time and kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour the chilled batter into the prepared pan and bake as directed. For the ganache, you can make it ahead as well—just store it in the fridge and reheat gently before spreading over the cooled brownies to ensure they taste just as delightful as when freshly made!
Strawberry Brownies Recipe FAQs
What type of strawberries should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! Fresh strawberries yield a superior texture and flavor in your strawberry brownies. If fresh strawberries are out of season, frozen strawberries can be used, but ensure they’re thawed and drained of excess moisture before incorporating them into your recipe.
How should I store leftover strawberry brownies?
To maintain their delicious freshness, store your strawberry brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like them to last longer, transfer them to the refrigerator where they’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days. Just remember, avoid adding fresh fruit toppings until you’re ready to serve to keep everything perfect!
Can I freeze strawberry brownies?
Absolutely! To freeze your strawberry brownies, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator, and they’ll taste just as delightful!
What can I do if my brownies are too dry?
If you find your brownies turning out dry, it could be due to overbaking or too much flour. For next time, keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes of baking and use a toothpick for doneness. If they turn out dry, serve them with a scoop of ice cream or drizzle warm ganache over the top to add moisture.
Are strawberry brownies suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Very! The recipe can easily be adapted for various dietary needs. Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for those avoiding gluten, and the use of coconut oil instead of butter makes it dairy-free. For vegan options, you can replace the eggs with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce and use coconut cream in the ganache. You can still enjoy these strawberry brownies regardless of your dietary needs!
Irresistible Strawberry Brownies with Creamy White Chocolate!
Equipment
- Saucepan
- Microwave-safe bowl
- - Mixer
- - 8×8-inch baking pan
Ingredients
For the Brownies
- 250 g Granulated Sugar 50 g for puree, 250 g for brownies
- 50 g Fresh or Frozen Strawberries Fresh strawberries yield a better texture
- 1 tsp Pure Vanilla Extract
- 1 tbsp Lemon Zest Can substitute with orange zest
- 1 tbsp Lemon Juice
- 1 tsp Kosher Salt
- 170 g White Chocolate Melts For batter
- 240 g White Chocolate Melts For ganache
- 1 large Egg
- 1 large Egg Yolk
- 1/4 cup Unsweetened Applesauce Optional substitute for eggs
- 1 cup All-Purpose Flour
- 1 tsp Baking Powder
- 1 drop Pink Gel Food Coloring Optional
- 1 cup Freeze-Dried Strawberries Optional
For the Ganache
- 1 cup Heavy Cream Can substitute with coconut cream for vegan option
For Topping (optional)
- 1 cup Fresh Strawberries For decoration
Instructions
How to Make Strawberry Brownies
- Cook the fresh or frozen strawberries in a saucepan with 50 g of sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice for 15-20 minutes until thickened. Blend until smooth for a luscious base.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal after baking.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 170 g of white chocolate melts and unsalted butter. Heat in 30-second increments, stirring in between, until completely smooth and melted.
- Using a mixer, beat the large egg and egg yolk with 250 g of granulated sugar and optional freeze-dried strawberries until the mixture is airy and light in color.
- Gently fold the strawberry puree and melted chocolate into the egg mixture. Then, sift in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and pink gel food coloring. Mix until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned and a toothpick comes out clean.
- While the brownies cool, heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until steaming, then mix in 240 g of white chocolate melts. Stir until smooth and glossy, then combine with the cooled strawberry puree.
- Once the brownies have cooled, spread the creamy ganache evenly across the top. Garnish with fresh strawberries.