Strawberry Sweetheart Brownies

These Strawberry Sweetheart Brownies are a delightful twist on classic brownies, combining rich chocolate with a luscious strawberry flavor. Perfect for Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, or any special occasion, these brownies are as beautiful as they are delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and fudgy texture – These brownies are moist and dense, delivering a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
• Delicious strawberry flavor – A sweet, fruity contrast to the deep chocolate base.
• Easy to make – Requires simple ingredients and minimal effort.
• Great for special occasions – The pink strawberry topping makes these perfect for romantic celebrations or gifting.
• Customizable – Easily adapt the recipe with different add-ins and toppings.

this Recipe

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Unsalted butter
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• All-purpose flour
• Cocoa powder
• Salt
• Strawberry jam or puree
• Powdered sugar
• Cream cheese (optional, for frosting)
• Pink food coloring (optional)
• Fresh strawberries (for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking pan with parchment paper and set aside.
2. Melt butter and chocolate chips together in a microwave-safe bowl or over a double boiler. Stir until smooth.
3. Whisk in sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
4. Sift in flour, cocoa powder, and salt and fold into the wet ingredients until just combined.
5. Pour batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs.
7. Cool completely before adding the strawberry topping.
8. For the topping, mix strawberry jam or puree with powdered sugar. Add cream cheese for a creamier texture if desired.
9. Spread the topping over the cooled brownies and add a few drops of pink food coloring if you want a vibrant pink hue.
10. Chill for 30 minutes before slicing into squares.
11. Garnish with fresh strawberries and serve.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 brownies
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Chill Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• White Chocolate Version: Swap out the semi-sweet chocolate for white chocolate for a sweeter, creamier brownie.
• Nutty Addition: Add chopped almonds or walnuts for an extra crunch.
• Strawberry Swirl: Swirl in strawberry puree into the brownie batter before baking for an extra fruity touch.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerator: Keep refrigerated for up to 5 days for maximum freshness.
• Freezer: Freeze brownies in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
• Reheating: Microwave for 10-15 seconds if you prefer a warm, gooey texture.

FAQs

How do I make these brownies extra fudgy?

Use a little less flour and avoid overbaking. A slightly undercooked center will firm up as the brownies cool.

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of jam?

Yes, you can puree fresh strawberries with a little sugar for a homemade strawberry topping.

What type of chocolate works best for these brownies?

Semi-sweet or dark chocolate gives the best balance of sweetness and depth.

Can I use boxed brownie mix?

Yes, you can use a boxed mix as a shortcut and simply add the strawberry topping.

Do I have to use food coloring?

No, it’s optional. The strawberry topping has a natural pink hue, but food coloring enhances it.

Can I make these dairy-free?

Yes, substitute dairy-free butter and chocolate, and use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.

How do I cut perfect brownie squares?

Chill the brownies for at least 30 minutes and use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger baking pan and increase the baking time slightly.

How can I make them less sweet?

Use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet and reduce the sugar slightly.

Are these brownies good for gifting?

Absolutely! Package them in a decorative box for a sweet homemade gift.

Conclusion

Strawberry Sweetheart Brownies are the perfect combination of rich chocolate and sweet strawberry flavors. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because, they’re sure to impress. Try them out and enjoy a delightful homemade treat!

Print