Print

Ultimate Strawberry Brownies Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.3 from 15 reviews

These Ultimate Strawberry Brownies bring a fresh twist to classic brownies by incorporating natural strawberry puree and extracts for an intense, fruity flavor. With a moist, tender crumb and a beautiful pink hue enhanced by natural food coloring, these brownies are topped with a smooth strawberry glaze that adds the perfect finishing touch. Ideal for strawberry lovers looking for a unique dessert that’s both visually stunning and delicious.

Ingredients

Strawberry Reduction

  • 1 lb strawberries (washed and hulled)

Brownie Batter

  • 10 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
  • 1¼ cups granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs (room temperature)
  • 2 teaspoons pure strawberry extract
  • ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • ¼ teaspoon pure lemon extract
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 24 drops red food coloring (preferably natural liquid food coloring)

Glaze

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons whole milk (may need more or less)
  • ¼½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Puree the Strawberries: Add the washed and hulled strawberries to a blender and puree them until smooth.
  2. Reduce the Puree: Pour the strawberry puree into a saucepan over medium heat. Simmer gently, reducing the heat if necessary, and stir constantly until the volume reduces to ¼ cup and the mixture thickens. Be vigilant to avoid scorching. Remove from heat and let cool.
  3. Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line an 8×8-inch glass baking pan with parchment paper and set aside.
  4. Mix Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, combine the melted butter and granulated sugar, stirring until well mixed.
  5. Add Eggs and Extracts: Stir in the eggs one at a time along with the vanilla, strawberry, and lemon extracts until the batter is smooth and uniform.
  6. Incorporate Strawberry Reduction: Fold the cooled strawberry reduction into the batter carefully, ensuring it’s evenly distributed without overmixing.
  7. Add Dry Ingredients: Stir in the all-purpose flour and salt just until combined to avoid over-developing gluten.
  8. Add Food Coloring: Mix in 2 to 4 drops of red liquid food coloring to achieve a deeper pink color; 4 drops are recommended for the best vibrant shade. Stir just until combined.
  9. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it into an even layer. Place in the middle rack of the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes or until the center is set and a toothpick comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.
  10. Cool: Remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan.
  11. Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, combine powdered sugar, whole milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until silky smooth. Adjust milk quantity as needed for desired consistency.
  12. Glaze and Set: Once the brownies are fully cooled, lift them out using the parchment paper and spread the glaze evenly on top. Let the glaze harden before slicing.
  13. Serve and Store: Cut the glazed brownies into 16 equal squares. Store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Notes

  • Keep constant watch on the strawberry reduction while simmering to prevent burning.
  • The strawberry reduction must be completely cooled before mixing with the batter to prevent cooking the eggs prematurely.
  • Natural red food coloring is preferred to maintain the fresh, fruity flavor without artificial taste.
  • Adjust glaze thickness by adding more milk for a thinner glaze or less for a thicker glaze.
  • For best texture, use room temperature eggs to ensure smooth batter mixing.