These yummy strawberry brownies are a treat that combines rich chocolate with fresh, juicy strawberries. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth!
I love how the strawberries add a fruity twist to the classic brownie. You can never go wrong with chocolate and berries—it’s like a party for your taste buds! 🍓
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Unsalted Butter: Butter adds moisture and richness. If you’re out, coconut oil or vegetable oil can work as alternatives. Just keep in mind that it might alter the flavor slightly.
Granulated Sugar: This recipe calls for granulated sugar for sweetness. You can use brown sugar if you prefer a richer flavor, or even coconut sugar for a less refined option.
Fresh Strawberries: Fresh strawberries are key for that juicy burst of flavor. If strawberries aren’t available, other berries like raspberries or blueberries can be substituted, but adjust the amount for sweetness.
Cream Cheese: Cream cheese adds a creamy texture and tangy flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using Greek yogurt or a vegan cream cheese alternative.
How Do I Achieve a Perfectly Swirled Brownie Batter?
Getting that lovely marbled effect takes a gentle touch. To create swirls without mixing too much, here’s what to do:
- After spooning the cream cheese-strawberry mixture over the brownie batter, don’t mix it in completely.
- Use a knife or skewer and lightly drag it through the layers in a figure-eight motion.
- Keep it gentle—just enough to create swirls without fully blending the layers.
This technique gives that beautiful swirl while keeping the distinct layers intact. Enjoy those pretty slices!
Delicious Strawberry Brownies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Brownie Base:
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup (40g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup (65g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
For the Strawberry Cream Cheese Layer:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup (40g) powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for cream cheese layer)
For Topping (Optional):
- Additional sliced strawberries for garnish
Estimated Time:
This delicious dessert will take approximately 15 minutes to prepare and around 30-35 minutes of baking time. Don’t forget to let them cool completely before slicing!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8×8 inch baking pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper. This will help prevent the brownies from sticking.
2. Prepare the Brownie Batter:
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, stir in the granulated sugar, eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until everything is well mixed.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients:
Sift together the cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder in another bowl. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix.
4. Pour the Brownie Batter:
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly across the bottom. This will be the base for your delicious strawberry topping.
5. Make the Cream Cheese Layer:
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the powdered sugar and an additional teaspoon of vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
6. Add Strawberries to Cream Cheese:
Gently fold the chopped strawberries into the cream cheese mixture, ensuring that they are evenly distributed.
7. Create the Marbled Effect:
Spoon the cream cheese-strawberry mixture in dollops over the brownie batter. Take a knife or a skewer and gently swirl the layers together to create a marbled effect. Be gentle to keep the layers distinct!
8. Bake the Brownies:
Place your pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. The edges should be set, and a toothpick inserted near the center should come out mostly clean, with only a few moist crumbs.
9. Cool and Slice:
Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This helps them firm up. Once cooled, cut them into squares.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Optional: Before serving, garnish the brownies with additional sliced strawberries for an extra touch of sweetness. Dig in and enjoy your rich and fruity strawberry brownies!
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but be sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture. It’s best to chop them into smaller pieces once thawed, so they mix well with the cream cheese.
How Should I Store Leftover Brownies?
To store leftover brownies, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week, but make sure to bring them back to room temperature before enjoying for the best texture!
Can I Make These Brownies Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. This will keep the texture similar while making the brownies suitable for a gluten-free diet.
What Can I Use Instead of Cream Cheese?
If you’re looking for a cream cheese substitute, you can use Greek yogurt for a lighter option or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative if you’re avoiding dairy. Just be mindful that the flavor and texture might vary slightly!
