Introduction to Strawberry Brownies

There’s something magical about the combination of strawberries and brownies, isn’t there? Strawberry brownies are a delightful treat that brings together the rich, fudgy goodness of brownies with the fresh, fruity burst of strawberries. Whether you’re looking for a quick solution for a busy day or a dish to impress your loved ones, this recipe is perfect. It’s simple, delicious, and sure to put a smile on anyone’s face. Plus, who can resist that creamy cheesecake filling topped with luscious strawberries? Let’s dive into this sweet adventure together!

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Brownies

These strawberry brownies are not just a dessert; they’re a celebration of flavors! They’re incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. The creamy cheesecake filling adds a luxurious touch, while the fresh strawberries bring a burst of sweetness. Plus, they can be made ahead of time, so you can enjoy them chilled and ready to serve. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Ingredients for Strawberry Brownies

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful strawberry brownies. Here’s what you’ll need:

Graham cracker crumbs: These form the base of your crust. You can also use finely crushed digestive biscuits for a similar texture.
Unsalted butter: Melted butter binds the crumbs together, giving the crust a rich flavor. If you prefer, coconut oil can be a great substitute.
Granulated sugar: A touch of sweetness for both the crust and the cheesecake filling. You can use brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
Cream cheese: This is the star of the cheesecake filling, providing that creamy, dreamy texture. Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
Eggs: They help to set the filling, giving it structure. Room temperature eggs mix better, so take them out ahead of time.
Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the flavor of the cheesecake. Pure vanilla extract is always best, but imitation works in a pinch.
Sour cream: This adds a tangy richness to the filling. Greek yogurt can be a healthier alternative if you’re looking to lighten things up.
Fresh strawberries: Chopped strawberries are the crowning glory of this dessert. If fresh ones aren’t available, frozen strawberries can work too—just make sure to thaw and drain them.
Lemon juice: A little acidity brightens the strawberry topping, balancing the sweetness. Freshly squeezed is always best!
Cornstarch: This thickens the strawberry topping, giving it a nice consistency. If you don’t have cornstarch, arrowroot powder can be a good substitute.

For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy baking!

How to Make Strawberry Brownies

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these delightful strawberry brownies! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be on your way to a delicious dessert that will impress everyone.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures even baking. If you skip this step, your brownies might end up unevenly cooked. Trust me, you want that perfect texture!

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until everything is well combined. The mixture should resemble wet sand. Now, press it firmly into the bottom of your greased or parchment-lined 9×13-inch baking dish. Pressing it down well is key; it creates a sturdy base for your strawberry brownies.

Step 3: Bake the Crust

Pop the crust into the oven and bake for about 8–10 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s lightly golden and firm to the touch. Let it cool slightly while you prepare the filling. This cooling time is essential to keep the layers distinct.

Step 4: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth. This is where the magic begins! Add the eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined. Then, stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream until everything is creamy and luscious. This filling is what makes these strawberry brownies so special!

Step 5: Pour and Bake the Filling

Now, pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust. Spread it evenly with a spatula. Bake in the oven for 30–35 minutes. The edges should be set, but the center will still be slightly jiggly. This is perfect because it will firm up as it cools!

Step 6: Cool and Refrigerate

Once baked, let the cheesecake cool completely at room temperature. This step is crucial for the best texture. After it cools, refrigerate it for at least 3 hours, or even overnight if you can wait! Chilling allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 7: Prepare the Strawberry Topping

While your cheesecake is chilling, let’s prepare the strawberry topping. In a saucepan, combine the chopped strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the strawberries release their juices. Then, stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for another 2–3 minutes until thickened. This topping is the cherry on top of your strawberry brownies!

Step 8: Assemble and Chill

Once the strawberry topping has cooled, spread it evenly over the chilled cheesecake layer. This is where the magic happens! Chill for another hour before slicing into brownie-like bars. The wait will be worth it when you take that first bite!

Tips for Success

Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing.
Press the crust firmly to avoid a crumbly base.
Let the cheesecake cool completely before refrigerating for the best texture.
Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor, but frozen can work in a pinch.
Chill the brownies overnight for enhanced flavor and texture.

Equipment Needed

9×13-inch baking dish: A standard size for this recipe. You can use a glass or metal dish.
Mixing bowls: A couple of medium-sized bowls will do. You can also use a stand mixer for convenience.
Spatula: Essential for spreading the filling and topping evenly. A silicone spatula works great!
Saucepan: Needed for cooking the strawberry topping. A small to medium size will suffice.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements. A kitchen scale can be a handy alternative.

Variations of Strawberry Brownies

Chocolate Strawberry Brownies: Add cocoa powder to the crust for a chocolatey twist. You can also mix in chocolate chips into the cheesecake filling for extra indulgence.
Nutty Crunch: Incorporate chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the crust for added texture and flavor. They pair beautifully with the creamy filling.
Vegan Option: Substitute cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese alternative and use flax eggs instead of regular eggs. Coconut cream can replace sour cream for a dairy-free version.
Berry Medley: Mix in other berries like blueberries or raspberries with the strawberries for a colorful and flavorful topping.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers or almond flour for the crust to make these brownies suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.

Serving Suggestions for Strawberry Brownies

Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.
Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast in temperature.
Drizzle with chocolate sauce for a decadent finish.
Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea for a perfect afternoon treat.

FAQs about Strawberry Brownies

As I’ve shared my love for these strawberry brownies, I know you might have a few questions. Here are some common queries that pop up, along with my answers to help you out!

Can I use frozen strawberries for the topping?

Absolutely! Frozen strawberries work just fine. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before cooking. They’ll still give you that delicious flavor!

How do I store leftover strawberry brownies?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for about 3-4 days. Trust me, they taste even better after chilling!

Can I make these strawberry brownies ahead of time?

Yes! These brownies are perfect for making ahead. Just prepare them a day in advance and let them chill overnight. The flavors will meld beautifully!

What can I substitute for cream cheese?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt can work. For a dairy-free version, try using a vegan cream cheese alternative. Both will still give you that creamy texture!

Are these strawberry brownies gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily make them gluten-free by using gluten-free graham crackers or almond flour for the crust. Everyone can enjoy this delightful treat!

Final Thoughts

Making strawberry brownies is more than just baking; it’s about creating sweet memories. The joy of mixing the creamy cheesecake filling and the excitement of topping it with fresh strawberries is truly delightful. Each bite is a burst of flavor that brings smiles to faces, whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in. I love how this recipe combines simplicity with elegance, making it perfect for any occasion. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and enjoy the delicious rewards. Trust me, these strawberry brownies will become a cherished favorite in your home!

Strawberry Brownies: Delightful Recipe You Must Try!

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Author: HearthMuse
Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Delightful Strawberry Brownies with a creamy cheesecake filling and fresh strawberry topping.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups graham cracker crumbs (or digestive biscuits, finely crushed)
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
2 tbsp granulated sugar
16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ cup sour cream
2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped (or frozen, thawed)
½ cup granulated sugar
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until combined.
Press mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased or parchment-lined 9×13-inch baking dish.
Bake for 8–10 minutes. Remove and let cool slightly.
In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing until just combined.
Stir in vanilla and sour cream until smooth.
Pour filling over the cooled crust and spread evenly.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly.
Let cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours (or overnight).
In a saucepan, combine chopped strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice.
Cook over medium heat until strawberries release juices.
Stir in cornstarch slurry and cook until thickened (2–3 minutes).
Allow to cool before spreading over chilled cheesecake.
Spread strawberry topping evenly over cheesecake.
Chill for 1 hour before slicing into brownie-like bars.

Notes

For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free graham crackers.
Can substitute fresh strawberries with other berries if desired.
Best served chilled for optimal texture.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 250
Sugar: 20g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 50mg