Strawberry Brownies (No Cake Mix)

Strawberry brownies made from scratch with fresh strawberry coulis and white chocolate. These soft, chewy dessert bars feature a rich, fruity flavor and a creamy strawberry ganache topping. Perfect for spring desserts, bake sales, Valentine’s Day, or easy homemade baking without cake mix.

These strawberry brownies are made from scratch with fresh strawberry coulis and white chocolate, offering a dense, chewy texture and a vibrant berry flavor. Topped with a creamy strawberry ganache, they’re a fruity twist on a classic dessert bar.

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Ingredients

For the Strawberry Coulis

• 16 oz (450g) strawberries (fresh or frozen)
• ½ cup (100g) white sugar

For the Strawberry Brownies

• 1¼ sticks (141g) unsalted butter
• 6 oz (170g) white chocolate, chopped
• 1¼ cups (250g) white sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp baking powder
• 1 cup (140g) prepared strawberry coulis
• ½ cup (85g) white chocolate chips
• 2 drops pink gel food coloring (optional)

For the Strawberry Ganache

• 8 oz (240g) white chocolate, chopped
• ⅔ cup (120g) heavy cream
• ½ cup (72g) prepared strawberry coulis

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Instructions

Make the Strawberry Coulis

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the strawberries and sugar.
2. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the strawberries soften and begin to break down.
3. Let the mixture boil gently until it thickens and appears slightly gelatinous (about 10–15 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and let cool for 15 minutes. Blend until smooth using a food processor or blender.
5. For an ultra-smooth texture, strain through a fine mesh sieve (optional). Let cool to room temperature before using.

Make the Strawberry Brownies

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (170°C). Line a 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Melt the butter and chopped white chocolate together in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, egg, and egg yolk until thick and pale. Stir in the vanilla.
4. Add the melted butter and white chocolate mixture to the bowl and stir to combine.
5. Sift in the flour, salt, and baking powder. Mix until smooth.
6. Stir in the cooled strawberry coulis. If using, add pink food coloring for a vibrant look.
7. Fold in the white chocolate chips.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 35 minutes, or until a skewer inserted comes out with just a few moist crumbs.
9. Let cool completely in the pan.

Make the Strawberry Ganache

1. Place chopped white chocolate in a large heatproof bowl.
2. Heat the cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until just about to boil. Pour over the white chocolate.
3. Let sit for 1 minute, then stir until smooth and fully combined.
4. Mix in the strawberry coulis until fully incorporated.
5. Let cool until thickened and spreadable. Chill briefly if needed.

Assemble

1. Once the brownies are completely cool, spread the ganache evenly over the top.
2. Garnish with sprinkles, fresh strawberries, or freeze-dried strawberry pieces if desired.
3. Slice into 9 or 16 squares and serve.

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Tips

• Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the most vibrant flavor in your coulis.
• Let the coulis cool fully before adding it to the brownie batter to avoid affecting texture.
• If the ganache is too thin to spread, chill it for 10–15 minutes and stir again.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Strawberries: Frozen strawberries work well—no need to thaw first.
• White chocolate chips: Replace with dark or ruby chocolate for a flavor twist.
• Egg-free option: Use a flax egg or egg replacer, though texture may change slightly.
• Gluten-free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a wheat-free version.

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FAQs

Can I use store-bought strawberry sauce instead of coulis?
Yes, but make sure it’s thick and not overly sweet to maintain the right consistency and flavor.

How do I store these brownies?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Can I freeze strawberry brownies?
Yes. Freeze unfrosted or frosted brownies tightly wrapped for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
• Add a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream for a more indulgent dessert.
• Garnish with fresh berries or a drizzle of melted white chocolate for presentation.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Made from scratch: No cake mix or shortcuts—just real ingredients.
• Perfect texture: Dense and chewy like a brownie, but bursting with fruity flavor.
• Beautiful presentation: Naturally pink with optional decoration for special occasions.
• Versatile: Works as a dessert bar, bake sale item, or Valentine’s treat.