Strawberry Crunch Brownies

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that brings back childhood memories, these Strawberry Crunch Brownies are just the ticket! They’re reminiscent of those delightful strawberry crunch ice cream bars we all loved. With layers of moist strawberry brownies, creamy frosting, and a crunchy vanilla cookie topping, this dessert is sure to steal the show at any gathering. Whether you’re whipping them up for a busy weeknight dessert or bringing a treat to a family gathering, these brownies are always a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Even if you’re not a baking pro, this semi-homemade recipe comes together quickly and effortlessly.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike adore the sweet strawberry flavor and fun crunchy texture. It’s perfect for all ages!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: These brownies can be made in advance and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. Just slice and enjoy!
• Versatile Treat: They’re great for birthday parties, potlucks, or simply as an afternoon snack with your favorite cup of tea.
• Nostalgic Flavor: Indulge in the delightful combination of strawberry and vanilla that takes you back to those carefree summer days.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create these delicious Strawberry Crunch Brownies. You probably have many of these items on hand already!

For the Brownie Layer

• 1 (15.25 ounce box) strawberry cake mix
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup (1 stick) salted butter, melted
• 3 Tablespoons heavy cream
• 1 cup white chocolate chips

For the Frosting Layer

• 1 (8 ounces) package cream cheese, room temperature
• ⅓ cup powdered sugar
• ⅓ cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 (8-ounce) tub of whipped topping

For the Topping

• 36 vanilla sandwich cookies
• ¼ cup strawberry syrup
• Fresh strawberries, optional garnish

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with some fun variations.

• Change the Cake Mix: Swap out the strawberry cake mix for another flavor like chocolate or vanilla for a different twist.
• Add Fresh Fruit: Toss in some diced fresh strawberries or other berries into the brownie batter for an extra fruity punch.
• Use Different Cookies: Instead of vanilla sandwich cookies, try using chocolate cookies for a richer topping.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cake mix and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free for a delicious alternative.

How to Make Strawberry Crunch Brownies

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Having everything ready makes the process smoother and more enjoyable!

Step 2: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This step is crucial as it ensures your brownies bake evenly.

Step 3: Mix the Brownie Batter

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, egg, melted butter, and heavy cream until smooth. This mixture will form the base layer of your brownies.

Step 4: Add White Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the white chocolate chips. They add a delightful sweetness that complements the strawberries perfectly!

Step 5: Bake Your Brownies

Spread the brownie mixture evenly into your greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake for 18-23 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean. Letting them cool completely will make spreading the frosting easier.

Step 6: Prepare the Frosting

In a large mixing bowl, beat together cream cheese and powdered sugar until fluffy. This creamy layer adds an irresistible richness to each bite.

Step 7: Fold in Whipped Topping

Beat in sour cream and vanilla extract until combined. Then gently fold in whipped topping until smooth. Spread this luscious frosting over your cooled brownies.

Step 8: Make the Crunchy Topping

Crush your vanilla sandwich cookies in a food processor until they are roughly crumbled but not totally crushed. This adds that signature crunch!

Step 9: Coat with Strawberry Syrup

Add strawberry syrup to your cookie crumbs and pulse until they are evenly coated and slightly pink—this is where that fun color comes from!

Step 10: Assemble Your Brownies

Sprinkle this crunchy mixture over your frosted brownies. Cut them into squares before serving or chill them in the fridge until you’re ready to enjoy!

Enjoy every last bite of these delightful Strawberry Crunch Brownies!

Pro Tips for Making Strawberry Crunch Brownies

Making these Strawberry Crunch Brownies is a delightful experience, and with a few expert tips, you can ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps the batter combine more smoothly and leads to a better texture in your brownies.

• Don’t overmix the brownie batter: Overmixing can result in denser brownies. Mix just until everything is combined to keep them light and fluffy.

• Check for doneness: Ovens can vary, so check your brownies a minute or two before the suggested baking time. They’re done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

• Let brownies cool completely: Allowing your brownies to cool fully will make it much easier to spread the frosting without melting it into gooeyness.

• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to add crushed freeze-dried strawberries or even a drizzle of chocolate sauce on top of the cookie crumble for an extra special touch.

How to Serve Strawberry Crunch Brownies

Serving these Strawberry Crunch Brownies is all about presentation! Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy night in, here are some fun ideas to elevate your dessert game.

Garnishes

• Fresh mint leaves: A few sprigs of mint not only add color but also provide a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the brownies.
• Shaved chocolate: A sprinkle of dark chocolate shavings over the whipped topping adds depth and visual appeal.
• Sliced fresh strawberries: A handful of sliced strawberries perched atop each brownie makes for an eye-catching presentation and enhances that strawberry flavor.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy richness pairs beautifully with the chewy brownies, creating an indulgent treat.
• Whipped cream: Light and airy, whipped cream complements the density of the brownies and adds an extra layer of sweetness.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances out the sweetness of the brownies while adding color and texture to your dessert spread.
• Coffee or tea: Serving these brownies with a warm cup of coffee or tea creates a cozy atmosphere that’s perfect for enjoying every bite.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Strawberry Crunch Brownies will not only taste heavenly but look fabulous too! Enjoy every moment as you create these delightful treats.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Strawberry Crunch Brownies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delightful dessert any day of the week without the fuss. Whether you’re planning for a gathering or just want to indulge later, here’s how to store them properly.

Storing Leftovers

• Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer chilled brownies, keep them in the refrigerator where they will stay fresh for up to a week.

Freezing

• Cut the brownies into squares before freezing for easier portion control.
• Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating

• For a warm treat, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Place brownies in an oven-safe dish covered with foil and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave individual squares on medium power for about 15-20 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Strawberry Crunch Brownies.

Can I use a different cake mix for Strawberry Crunch Brownies?

Absolutely! While this recipe calls for strawberry cake mix, you can experiment with other flavors like vanilla or chocolate. Just keep in mind that it will change the overall flavor profile of your brownies.

How long do Strawberry Crunch Brownies last?

When stored properly, these Strawberry Crunch Brownies can last up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator. If you freeze them, they will stay fresh for up to 3 months!

Are there any substitutes for heavy cream in Strawberry Crunch Brownies?

Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy milk alternative if you’re looking for a lighter option or prefer dairy-free ingredients.

What makes these Strawberry Crunch Brownies special?

The combination of moist strawberry brownies topped with creamy frosting and crunchy cookie crumbs creates a nostalgic dessert experience reminiscent of childhood ice cream treats. It’s truly a delightful treat!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Strawberry Crunch Brownies! They’re not only delicious but also bring back sweet memories with every bite. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, these brownies are sure to impress. Enjoy your baking adventure, and feel free to share your creations with friends and family!