When you’re craving a dessert that’s a little different but still totally irresistible, these Strawberry Fudge Brownies are just what you need. Imagine fudgy, rich brownies, with the added sweetness of fresh strawberries and a silky-smooth finish. It’s the perfect combination of chocolatey decadence and fruity freshness. These brownies are the ultimate treat for anyone who loves a twist on classic favorites, and trust me, they’ll disappear in no time!
Why You’ll Love Strawberry Fudge Brownies
A Perfect Balance of Flavors
These brownies strike the perfect balance between rich chocolate and fresh strawberries. The deep, fudgy texture pairs beautifully with the tartness of the berries, creating a dessert that’s both indulgent and refreshing.
Easy to Make
You don’t have to be a pastry pro to whip up these brownies. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a batch of warm, gooey brownies ready to enjoy in no time.
Crowd-Pleaser
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these brownies are sure to impress. The vibrant pink strawberry swirl looks gorgeous, and the flavor is even better! They’re a fun twist on your classic brownies, perfect for summer picnics or any celebration.
Versatile
Love extra chocolate? You can easily add some chocolate chips or chunks to the batter. Want it more strawberry-forward? You can increase the amount of fresh strawberries or even add a strawberry glaze on top.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make these sweet and indulgent Strawberry Fudge Brownies:
- Fresh Strawberries: The star of the show! Fresh strawberries add a burst of natural sweetness and a gorgeous pink color to your brownies.
- Butter: For that rich, fudgy texture that makes brownies so irresistible.
- Sugar: Sweetens up the brownies perfectly, giving them that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Eggs: Help bind everything together and add richness to the brownies.
- Flour: The base of the batter, giving these brownies their structure and texture.
- Cocoa Powder: Provides the deep chocolatey flavor that pairs so wonderfully with strawberries.
- Baking Powder: Helps the brownies rise to the perfect level of fluffiness.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds that lovely, aromatic depth of flavor to balance the sweetness.
- Salt: Just a pinch to enhance all the flavors.
- Chocolate Chips: Optional, but totally recommended for extra fudginess and chocolate flavor.
- Heavy Cream: For making the smooth strawberry swirl topping.
(Note: Exact measurements are included in the recipe card below!)
Instructions
Ready to get baking? Let’s walk through the steps to create these delicious strawberry fudge brownies:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Strawberry Swirl
In a small saucepan, heat the fresh strawberries and heavy cream over low heat. Stir occasionally, and cook until the strawberries break down and soften, about 5-7 minutes. Once they’re softened, use a fork or a masher to mash the strawberries into a puree. Let it cool while you prepare the brownie batter.
Step 3: Make the Brownie Batter
In a large mixing bowl, melt the butter in the microwave or on the stove. Stir in the sugar and eggs until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and mix. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until fully combined. If you’re adding chocolate chips, fold them in at this point.
Step 4: Pour and Swirl
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and smooth it out evenly. Spoon the strawberry puree over the batter in small dollops. Using a toothpick or skewer, gently swirl the strawberry puree into the brownie batter to create a marbled effect. Be careful not to overmix—just a few gentle swirls will do!
Step 5: Bake
Bake the brownies in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. You want them to be fudgy, not fully set, so check them early to prevent overbaking.
Step 6: Cool and Slice
Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then remove them from the pan using the parchment paper. Let them cool completely on a wire rack before slicing into squares. This helps them set and makes them easier to cut.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 9
Calories per serving: 280
Total Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 55mg
Sodium: 65mg
Total Carbohydrates: 38g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 25g
Protein: 4g
Vitamin A: 8%
Vitamin C: 30%
Calcium: 2%
Iron: 10%
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 40-45 minutes
How to Serve Strawberry Fudge Brownies
- With Whipped Cream: Top with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
- With Ice Cream: Vanilla or strawberry ice cream would complement these brownies perfectly for a dessert that’s over-the-top delicious.
- For a Special Touch: Garnish with extra fresh strawberry slices or a drizzle of strawberry syrup for a festive look!
Additional Tips
- Storage: Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge, and warm them up before serving.
- Make it Vegan: To make this recipe vegan, swap the eggs for flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) and use dairy-free butter and cream.
- Boost the Chocolate Flavor: Add a handful of chocolate chips to the batter or drizzle melted chocolate over the brownies for extra chocolatey goodness.
- Customize the Swirl: If you’re not in the mood for strawberry, try blueberry or raspberry puree for a fun twist on the original.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
A1: Yes! Frozen strawberries work fine, but make sure to thaw them and drain excess liquid before using them in the recipe.
Q2: Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
A2: Yes! You can bake the brownies a day or two in advance. Just keep them covered at room temperature to keep them fresh.
Q3: Can I use a different fruit for the swirl?
A3: Absolutely! You can swap strawberries for raspberries, blueberries, or even peaches. Just be sure to cook the fruit down into a puree before swirling.
Q4: How do I know when the brownies are done?
A4: You’ll know they’re done when the top looks set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with only a few moist crumbs. They should still be fudgy, not fully dry.
Q5: Can I freeze these brownies?
A5: Yes! You can freeze the brownies for up to 3 months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw in the fridge and reheat before serving.
Q6: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A6: Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.
Q7: What can I use instead of butter?
A7: You can substitute butter with vegetable oil or coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
Q8: How can I make these brownies extra fudgy?
A8: For even fudgier brownies, try adding an extra egg or a couple of tablespoons of sour cream to the batter.
Q9: Can I double the recipe?
A9: Yes! Double the ingredients and bake the brownies in a 9×13-inch pan. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly, so keep an eye on them!
Q10: How do I get the swirl to look perfect?
A10: Just use a toothpick or skewer to gently swirl the strawberry puree into the batter. Don’t overmix—it’s best when the swirl is subtle and not fully incorporated.
Conclusion
These Strawberry Fudge Brownies are the perfect combination of gooey, chocolatey goodness and fresh, fruity sweetness. They’re easy to make, absolutely delicious, and sure to impress anyone you serve them to. Whether you’re enjoying them on a cozy afternoon or bringing them to a party, they’re bound to be a hit!
PrintStrawberry Fudge Brownies
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: 9–12 brownies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These indulgent Strawberry Fudge Brownies combine rich chocolatey fudge with the sweetness of fresh strawberries, making for the ultimate dessert. The perfect balance of moist, fudgy texture and fruity flavor!
Ingredients
For the brownies:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
For the strawberry topping:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries (diced)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for a zesty touch)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Make the brownie batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and granulated sugar. Stir in the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
- Add the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Stir until everything is well combined and a thick batter forms.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs (don’t overbake).
- Make the strawberry topping: While the brownies are baking, combine the diced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice (if using) in a small bowl. Stir and let it sit to macerate for about 10 minutes, until the strawberries release their juice.
- Cool the brownies: Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Top the brownies: Once the brownies are completely cooled, spread the macerated strawberries on top.
- Slice, serve, and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra richness, drizzle melted chocolate over the brownies after adding the strawberries.
- You can substitute frozen strawberries if fresh ones are unavailable, but make sure to thaw and drain them well.
- These brownies are best served the day they are made, but they can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 40mg