Strawberry Layer Brownies Recipe

Indulge in these delicious strawberry layered brownies for a sweet treat that is sure to impress your guests. With a rich brownie base, a middle layer of sweet strawberry cream, and a velvety chocolate ganache on top, these brownies are as eye-catching as they are delicious.

Photos of Strawberry Layer Brownies Recipe

Most ingredients for this recipe should be readily available in your pantry. You might want to check for the availability of strawberry extract and red food coloring. These are key to creating the vibrant strawberry layer in the brownies. Also, dark chocolate chips and heavy cream are essential for the smooth, rich ganache layer.

Ingredients for Strawberry Layered Brownies

Fudge brownie mix: A pre-made mix for convenience and ensures your brownie base is deliciously fudgy.

Unsalted butter: Adds richness to the strawberry layer and helps it set.

Strawberry extract: Gives the strawberry layer its fruity flavor.

Heavy cream: Used in both the strawberry layer and ganache for a creamy, rich texture.

Confectioners' sugar: Sweetens and thickens the strawberry layer.

Red food coloring: Gives the strawberry layer its bright, appetizing color.

Dark chocolate chips: Melted to create the decadent chocolate ganache.

Chocolate syrup: Used for drizzling over the finished brownies for extra chocolatey goodness.

Fresh strawberries: An optional topping that adds freshness and visual appeal.

Whipped cream: An optional topping that complements the richness of the brownies.

One reader, Guido Newby says:

This strawberry layered brownie recipe is a game-changer! The combination of rich fudge brownie, luscious strawberry layer, and decadent ganache is a taste sensation. The recipe is easy to follow, and the end result is a showstopper. It's a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth!

Guido Newby

Techniques Required for Strawberry Layered Brownie Recipe

How to bake the brownie layer: Follow the instructions on the brownie mix package to prepare the batter, then pour it into a greased or parchment-lined 8 x 8-inch baking dish and bake according to the package directions.

How to make the strawberry layer: Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat, then whisk in the strawberry extract, heavy cream, confectioners' sugar, and red food coloring to create a smooth strawberry layer.

How to make the ganache: Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it reaches a light simmer, then pour it over the chocolate chips in a medium bowl. Let it sit for 4 to 5 minutes, then whisk until a rich chocolate ganache forms.

How to drizzle with chocolate syrup: Simply use a spoon or a piping bag to drizzle the brownies with chocolate syrup in a decorative pattern.

How to slice into squares: Use a sharp knife to cut the brownies into even squares for serving.

How to top with fresh strawberries and whipped cream: Place a fresh sliced strawberry on top of each brownie square and add a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful finishing touch.

How To Make Strawberry Layer Brownies

Impress guests with this elegant brownies recipe with a sweet strawberry layer at your next party. Whip up this sweet treat in just under two hours.

Preparation: 45 minutes

Cooking: 35 minutes

Total: 1 hour 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Brownie Layer:

Fudge Brownie Mix,1 box, plus box indicated ingredients

For Strawberry Layer:

2tbspunsalted butter
½tspstrawberry extract
2tbspheavy cream
2cupsconfectioners’ sugar
¼tspred food coloring,optional

For Ganache:

¾cupdark chocolate chips
½cupheavy cream

For Optional Toppings:

chocolate syrup
fresh strawberries
whipped cream

Instructions

Preheat the oven and make the brownie mix according to package instructions.
Pour brownie batter into a greased or parchment lined 8 x 8-inch baking dish, then bake according to package directions.
Remove from the oven, then let cool completely.

Strawberry Layer:

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and whisk in the strawberry extract, heavy cream, confectioners’ sugar, and red food coloring.
Pour the strawberry layer over the baked brownies. Spread out evenly with a rubber spatula.

Ganache:

Add the chocolate chips to a medium bowl, then set aside.
Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until a light simmer forms.
Pour the chocolate chips in, then let set for 4 to 5 minutes.
Whisk until a rich chocolate ganache forms.
Pour the ganache over the strawberry layer, then let set for 15 to 30 minutes.
Drizzle the brownies with chocolate syrup, then slice into squares.
Top with a fresh sliced strawberry and whipped cream, if desired.
Serve, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 154.26kcal
Fat: 8.52g
Saturated Fat: 5.15g
Trans Fat: 0.06g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.46g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.29g
Carbohydrates: 19.15g
Fiber: 0.93g
Sugar: 16.98g
Protein: 0.87g
Cholesterol: 16.83mg
Sodium: 5.74mg
Calcium: 12.88mg
Potassium: 68.89mg
Iron: 1.03mg
Vitamin A: 50.59µg
Vitamin C: 0.12mg

Helpful Technique for Perfecting Strawberry Layered Brownies

When making the strawberry layer for these brownies, it's important to whisk the ingredients together until they're fully combined. This will ensure that the strawberry extract, heavy cream, confectioners' sugar, and red food coloring are evenly distributed, resulting in a smooth and flavorful layer. Also, when pouring the chocolate ganache over the strawberry layer, do it gently to avoid mixing the two layers. Allow each layer to set properly before adding the next to maintain distinct, delicious layers in your brownies.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Strawberry Layered Brownies

Prep ahead: Prepare the brownie mix and strawberry layer the day before, then assemble and add the ganache before serving to save time on the day of serving.

Use store-bought: Consider using store-bought brownie mix and chocolate syrup to cut down on prep time without sacrificing flavor.

Chill for quick setting: Place the brownies in the refrigerator to speed up the setting process for the strawberry layer and ganache.

Double batch: Make a double batch of brownies and freeze the extra for future use, saving time on baking from scratch next time.

Organize ingredients: Before starting, organize all the ingredients and equipment needed for the recipe to streamline the cooking process.

Quick cooling: Place the baked brownies in the freezer for a few minutes to quickly cool them before adding the strawberry layer and ganache.

Efficient assembly: Assemble the brownies in an assembly line fashion, completing each step for all the brownies before moving on to the next, to work more efficiently.

Pre-slice: Consider pre-slicing the brownies before adding the strawberry layer and ganache for easier and quicker serving later.

Substitute Ingredients For Strawberry Layer Brownies Recipe

fudge brownie mix - Substitute with homemade brownie mix: You can make your own brownie mix by combining flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. This allows you to control the ingredients and customize the flavor to your preference.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative to butter, and it adds a subtle coconut flavor to the brownie layer.
strawberry extract - Substitute with vanilla extract: If you don't have strawberry extract, vanilla extract can provide a pleasant aroma and flavor to complement the brownie and strawberry layers.
heavy cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream can be used as a dairy-free alternative to heavy cream, adding richness and a hint of coconut flavor to the strawberry layer.
confectioners' sugar - Substitute with powdered erythritol: For a lower-carb option, powdered erythritol can be used as a sugar-free substitute in the strawberry layer, providing sweetness without the added sugar.
red food coloring - Substitute with beet juice: Natural beet juice can be used to add a vibrant red color to the strawberry layer without the need for artificial food coloring.
dark chocolate chips - Substitute with cacao nibs: Cacao nibs can be used as a less processed and more nutritious alternative to dark chocolate chips, adding a rich chocolate flavor to the ganache.
chocolate syrup - Substitute with caramel sauce: Caramel sauce can provide a delicious alternative topping, adding a sweet and buttery flavor to complement the brownie and strawberry layers.
fresh strawberries - Substitute with raspberries: Raspberries can be used as a tart and juicy alternative to fresh strawberries, adding a burst of fruity flavor to the layered brownies.
whipped cream - Substitute with coconut whipped cream: Coconut whipped cream can be used as a dairy-free alternative, providing a luscious and creamy topping for the strawberry layered brownies.

Presenting Strawberry Layered Brownies

Elevate the plating: When presenting the strawberry layered brownies, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Use clean lines and precise placement to showcase the layers and textures of the dessert.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Utilize chocolate syrup to create intricate and artistic drizzles on the plate. This adds a touch of sophistication and artistry to the presentation, elevating the overall visual appeal.
Garnish with fresh strawberries: Adorn the plate with vibrant, fresh strawberries to add a pop of color and a refreshing, natural element to the presentation. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also complements the flavors of the dessert.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the dessert to stand out. By strategically leaving areas of the plate bare, you can draw attention to the exquisite layers and textures of the strawberry layered brownies.
Incorporate a dusting of cocoa powder: Add a touch of sophistication by dusting a fine, even layer of cocoa powder around the plate. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a subtle hint of rich, chocolate flavor to the presentation.
Consider the use of edible flowers: Introduce a touch of elegance and refinement by incorporating delicate, edible flowers as a garnish. This adds a whimsical and luxurious element to the presentation, perfect for a high-end culinary setting.

Essential Tools for Making Layered Strawberry Brownies

Oven: You will need an oven to bake the brownie layer and to prepare the brownie mix according to the package instructions.
8 x 8-inch baking dish: This dish will be used to bake the brownie layer and to layer the strawberry mixture on top.
Small saucepan: A small saucepan is essential for melting the butter and preparing the strawberry layer.
Rubber spatula: This tool will be used to spread the strawberry layer evenly over the baked brownies.
Medium bowl: You will need a medium bowl to melt the chocolate chips and prepare the ganache.
Whisk: A whisk is necessary for mixing the ingredients for the strawberry layer and for creating the chocolate ganache.
Small saucepan: Another small saucepan will be used to heat the heavy cream for the ganache.
Parchment paper: This will be used to line the baking dish to prevent the brownies from sticking.
Knife: A knife will be used to slice the brownies into squares before serving.
Optional: Piping bag: If you choose to use whipped cream as a topping, a piping bag can be used to pipe the whipped cream onto the brownies.
Optional: Whipped cream dispenser: If you choose to use whipped cream as a topping, a whipped cream dispenser can be used to dispense the whipped cream onto the brownies.

Storing and Freezing Strawberry Layered Brownies

Let the brownies cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the brownies soggy.
If you plan to store the brownies for more than a day or two, place a sheet of parchment paper between each layer to prevent them from sticking together.
Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. The ganache and strawberry layer will help keep the brownies moist and delicious.
To freeze the brownies, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Label the container with the date and contents.
Freeze the brownies for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, let them thaw at room temperature for a few hours before serving.
If you want to freeze individual brownies, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. This way, you can easily grab a single brownie whenever you want a sweet treat.
To reheat frozen brownies, unwrap them and place them on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave for 10-15 seconds, or until they're warm and gooey.
If you prefer a firmer texture, you can also reheat the brownies in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the brownies on a baking sheet. Bake for 5-10 minutes, or until they're heated through.

How To Reheat Leftover Strawberry Layered Brownies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover strawberry layered brownies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover the brownies loosely with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. The foil will help keep the moisture in, ensuring your brownies remain soft and gooey.
If you prefer a quicker method, you can use the microwave. Place the brownie on a microwave-safe plate and heat it in 30-second intervals until warm. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the brownie to become tough and rubbery. To maintain the texture, you can place a damp paper towel over the brownie before microwaving.
For a crispy exterior and a warm, gooey interior, try reheating your strawberry layered brownies in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the brownies in the basket. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until heated to your liking. This method will give you a delightful contrast of textures.
If you want to get creative, transform your leftover brownies into a delicious dessert. Crumble the brownies into small pieces and layer them with fresh whipped cream, sliced strawberries, and a drizzle of chocolate syrup in a parfait glass. This will create a visually appealing and tasty treat that breathes new life into your leftover brownies.
For a decadent twist, warm up your strawberry layered brownies and serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The contrast of the warm, rich brownie and the cool, creamy ice cream is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. You can even add a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of chopped nuts for extra flavor and texture.

Interesting Fact About Strawberry Layered Brownies

The brownie layer in this recipe can be enhanced by adding fresh strawberries to the batter before baking. This will infuse the brownies with a burst of fruity flavor and a hint of natural sweetness.

Is Making Strawberry Layered Brownies at Home Cost-Effective?

This strawberry layered brownies recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as fudge brownie mix, strawberry extract, and dark chocolate chips, are reasonably priced and readily available. The dessert's rich and indulgent flavors make it a delightful treat for special occasions. On a scale of 1-10, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its taste and presentation. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20, making it an affordable yet impressive dessert option.

Are Strawberry Layered Brownies Healthy or Unhealthy?

This recipe for strawberry layered brownies is undeniably delicious, but it's not the healthiest treat. The main culprits are:

High sugar content from the brownie mix, confectioners' sugar, and chocolate syrup
Saturated fat from the butter and heavy cream
Processed ingredients like the brownie mix and food coloring

While enjoying a sweet indulgence occasionally is perfectly fine, there are ways to make this recipe a bit healthier without sacrificing taste:

Opt for a whole wheat or gluten-free brownie mix, or make your own using cocoa powder, whole wheat flour, and natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup
Replace the butter with coconut oil or Greek yogurt
Use fresh strawberry puree instead of extract and food coloring for a natural flavor and color boost
Swap the heavy cream in the ganache for almond milk or coconut milk
Top with fresh strawberries and a dollop of Greek yogurt instead of whipped cream

By making these simple swaps, you can create a slightly healthier version of this decadent dessert that still satisfies your sweet tooth. Remember, moderation is key, and it's all about finding a balance that works for you.

Editor's Opinion on This Strawberry Brownie Recipe

The combination of rich fudge brownies, luscious strawberry layer, and decadent chocolate ganache creates a delightful symphony of flavors and textures. The addition of strawberry extract and red food coloring in the strawberry layer adds a burst of fruity essence and vibrant color. The ganache provides a luxurious finish, elevating the overall indulgence. The optional toppings of chocolate syrup, fresh strawberries, and whipped cream offer a delightful contrast and enhance the visual appeal. This recipe is a perfect balance of sweetness and richness, making it a delectable treat for any occasion.

Enhance Your Strawberry Layer Brownies Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Asparagus: Try serving with a side of grilled asparagus spears, lightly seasoned with salt and pepper for a healthy and delicious addition to your meal.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Whip up a batch of creamy garlic mashed potatoes to complement the rich and decadent flavors of the strawberry layered brownies.

Mixed Berry Salad: Create a refreshing mixed berry salad with a variety of fresh berries, drizzled with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette for a burst of fruity goodness alongside your dessert.

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Appetizers and Main Dishes to Complement Strawberry Layered Brownies

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory mushrooms stuffed with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, then baked to perfection. These stuffed mushrooms are the perfect bite-sized appetizer for any occasion.

Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fragrant basil leaves skewered together and drizzled with a balsamic glaze. These caprese skewers are a refreshing and elegant appetizer that will impress your guests.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Indulge in a creamy and rich pasta dish that combines tender chicken with a velvety Alfredo sauce. The flavors meld together perfectly for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Beef Stir Fry: Experience the vibrant and bold flavors of a beef stir fry, packed with colorful vegetables and tender strips of beef. The savory sauce ties everything together for a delicious and nutritious dish.

Why trust this Strawberry Layer Brownies Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a decadent treat with a perfect balance of rich fudge brownie mix and a luscious strawberry layer that's both creamy and flavorful. The addition of strawberry extract and a touch of red food coloring ensures an authentic and vibrant strawberry taste. The velvety ganache made with premium dark chocolate chips and heavy cream adds a luxurious finish. The optional toppings of chocolate syrup, fresh strawberries, and whipped cream elevate the presentation and taste, making this recipe a delightful indulgence for any occasion.

Want to share your experience making these delectable Strawberry Layer Brownies or have any tips to perfect the recipe? Join the discussion in the Baking and Desserts forum!

FAQ:

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of strawberry extract for the strawberry layer?

Yes, you can definitely use fresh strawberries instead of strawberry extract. Simply puree the fresh strawberries and adjust the amount of confectioners' sugar and cream to achieve the desired consistency for the layer.

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate for the ganache?

Absolutely! You can use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate for a sweeter and creamier ganache. Just keep in mind that the flavor and sweetness will be different, so adjust the sugar accordingly in the strawberry layer.

Can I skip the red food coloring in the strawberry layer?

Of course! The red food coloring is purely for aesthetic purposes to enhance the vibrant color of the strawberry layer. If you prefer to omit it, the flavor and texture of the brownies will not be affected.

How long can I store the strawberry layered brownies?

These brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. Just be sure to bring them to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.

Can I make this recipe without using a store-bought brownie mix?

Absolutely! You can make the brownie layer from scratch using your favorite brownie recipe. Simply prepare the brownie batter according to your recipe, then proceed with the rest of the instructions for the strawberry layer and ganache.