Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies are the ultimate dessert hybrid, merging the tangy creaminess of cheesecake, the rich sweetness of strawberries, and the dense, fudgy texture of brownies. This delightful treat brings together the best elements of three classic desserts into one show-stopping creation. With their vibrant pink hue and decadent flavor profile, these brownies are not only a feast for the palate but also a visual delight.
Perfect for special occasions such as birthdays, Valentine’s Day, or any festive gathering, Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies elevate the ordinary brownie into a gourmet treat. Their eye-catching appearance and irresistible taste make them a crowd-pleaser that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
Why Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies?
What makes Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies stand out is their unique combination of nostalgic flavors and upscale presentation. The classic strawberry flavor harks back to childhood favorites, while the cream cheese frosting adds a sophisticated touch. Layered with a crunchy Strawberry Shortcake Crumble topping, these brownies strike a balance between sweet indulgence and textured perfection.
This dessert isn’t just for strawberry lovers—it also appeals to those who enjoy rich, creamy cheesecake or crave the comforting density of brownies. Whether served as a standalone treat or paired with a dollop of whipped cream or fresh fruit, these brownies are a testament to the magic of creative baking, bringing joy to dessert tables everywhere.
Ingredients Breakdown
Essential Ingredients for the Brownies
The base of this dessert begins with a creative twist: using a strawberry cake mix as the foundation. This pre-made mix simplifies the process while delivering a consistent and vibrant strawberry flavor. Combined with melted butter, eggs, and strawberry gelatin, the brownie layer achieves its signature richness and chewiness.
- Strawberry Cake Mix: Provides the sweet, fruity foundation and a striking pink hue that makes these brownies stand out.
- Melted Butter: Adds moisture and a velvety texture, ensuring the brownies remain soft and flavorful.
- Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and create structure, helping the brownies hold their shape.
- Strawberry Gelatin: Enhances the strawberry flavor and deepens the pink color, giving the brownies a visually appealing finish.
Together, these ingredients create a thick, flavorful batter that bakes into a perfectly dense yet tender brownie base.
Making the Cream Cheese Frosting
The cream cheese frosting is the luxurious layer that complements the strawberry brownies. Its tangy flavor balances the sweetness of the brownie base, while its creamy texture adds a luscious mouthfeel.
- Cream Cheese: The star of the frosting, contributing tanginess and smoothness that pairs beautifully with the strawberry notes.
- Salted Butter: Adds a touch of richness and helps achieve a silky texture.
- Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the frosting while maintaining a light, airy consistency.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor, adding warmth and depth.
- Heavy Cream: Adjusts the frosting’s consistency, making it spreadable and fluffy.
This combination results in a frosting that’s both light and indulgent, perfectly balancing the dessert’s flavor profile.
Strawberry Shortcake Crumble Topping
The crumble topping elevates these brownies to gourmet status, adding a satisfying crunch and a visually appealing finish. Made from Golden Oreos, strawberry gelatin, and melted butter, this topping provides texture and a burst of flavor.
- Golden Oreos: The cookies’ vanilla flavor complements the strawberry and cream cheese layers, adding a subtle buttery taste.
- Strawberry Gelatin: Infuses the crumble with a vibrant strawberry essence, tying it cohesively to the brownies.
- Melted Butter: Binds the crumble together and ensures it adheres to the frosting when applied.
This topping not only provides a delightful contrast in texture but also enhances the dessert’s presentation, making it as impressive to look at as it is to eat.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Dish
Preheating your oven is an essential first step to ensure even baking. Set the temperature to 350°F (175°C) to create the ideal environment for your brownies to rise and cook through evenly.
- Line the Baking Dish: Use an 8×8-inch glass baking dish for a perfect square shape. Line it with parchment paper, allowing some overhang on the sides for easy removal after baking.
- Spray with Non-Stick Spray: Lightly coat the parchment paper with non-stick cooking spray to prevent the brownies from sticking, ensuring clean edges and easy serving.
Making the Brownie Batter
The brownie batter is the heart of this recipe, combining simple ingredients into a thick, luscious mixture.
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, stir together strawberry cake mix, 2 tablespoons of strawberry gelatin, melted butter, and eggs.
- Tip: Use a rubber spatula for easy mixing, ensuring all dry ingredients are incorporated.
- Achieve the Right Consistency: The batter will be thick—this is normal. Avoid overmixing, as this can lead to dense brownies.
- Spread the Batter: Transfer the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with the spatula to ensure consistent thickness.
Baking the Brownies
Proper baking is key to achieving the ideal texture.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes.
- Test for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, they’re ready.
- Cool Completely: Allow the brownies to cool in the pan before adding frosting to prevent it from melting.
Preparing the Cream Cheese Frosting
The frosting layer adds tanginess and creaminess to balance the sweet brownies.
- Cream the Base Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Incorporate Sugar: Gradually add powdered sugar, beating well after each addition.
- Adjust Consistency: Add 1–2 tablespoons of heavy cream to reach a light, spreadable consistency. Beat until fluffy.
- Tip: Chill the frosting slightly if it becomes too soft to spread easily.
Making the Strawberry Shortcake Crumble
This topping provides the dessert’s signature crunch and vibrant finish.
- Pulse the Golden Oreos: In a food processor, pulse 20 Golden Oreos until they are broken into coarse crumbs, leaving some larger chunks for texture.
- Add Strawberry Gelatin: Sprinkle 4 tablespoons of strawberry gelatin over the crumbs.
- Incorporate Melted Butter: Drizzle melted butter over the mixture and pulse again until the crumbs are evenly coated and slightly moist.
Assembling the Brownies
Bring all the elements together for the final dessert.
- Spread the Frosting: Evenly spread the cream cheese frosting over the cooled brownies, using an offset spatula for a smooth finish.
- Apply the Crumble: Sprinkle the Strawberry Shortcake Crumble generously over the frosting, pressing it gently with your hands to ensure it adheres.
Cutting and Serving Tips
Clean cuts and proper storage will enhance your presentation and maintain freshness.
- Cut Clean Squares: Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water to make clean cuts. Wipe the knife after each cut for neat edges.
- Storage: Store the brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Serve them chilled or let them come to room temperature for a softer texture.
By following these steps, you’ll achieve perfectly layered, visually stunning Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies that taste as amazing as they look.
Tips, Tricks, and Variations
Baking Tips for Success
To ensure your Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies turn out perfectly every time, consider these practical tips:
- Substitutions for Dietary Needs:
- For a gluten-free version, replace the strawberry cake mix with a gluten-free strawberry-flavored cake mix.
- Swap out dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives like vegan butter, dairy-free cream cheese, and coconut cream.
- Troubleshooting Common Issues:
- Overbaking: Check the brownies a few minutes before the recommended bake time to avoid dryness. Remember, they continue to cook slightly as they cool.
- Uneven Baking: Rotate the pan halfway through baking to ensure even heat distribution.
Flavor Variations
Personalize your Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies by experimenting with different flavors and textures:
- Different Cake Mix Flavors:
- Swap the strawberry cake mix for lemon cake mix to create Lemon Cheesecake Brownies.
- Try chocolate cake mix for a decadent Chocolate-Covered Strawberry vibe.
- Customizing the Crumble:
- Add crushed nuts like pistachios or almonds to the crumble for a nutty crunch.
- Mix in dried fruits like diced cranberries or cherries for a tangy contrast to the sweet strawberries.
Presentation Ideas
Elevate the visual appeal of your Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies with these decorating and serving suggestions:
- Decorating for Special Occasions:
- Valentine’s Day: Use heart-shaped cookie cutters to create festive portions. Sprinkle edible glitter or red heart sprinkles for extra flair.
- Holiday-Themed: Add green sugar sprinkles for a Christmas touch or pastel sprinkles for Easter celebrations.
- Creative Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the brownies with a dollop of whipped cream and a fresh strawberry slice on top for an elegant presentation.
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a summer treat or drizzle with melted chocolate for added decadence.
By using these tips, tricks, and variations, you can adapt the recipe to fit different dietary preferences, flavor profiles, and occasions, making your Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies as versatile as they are delicious.
FAQs
Can I use a different cake mix flavor?
Absolutely! While strawberry cake mix is the star of this recipe, you can experiment with other flavors for unique variations:
- Chocolate Cake Mix: For a rich, chocolate-covered strawberry twist.
- Lemon Cake Mix: Adds a zesty, refreshing flavor that pairs beautifully with the cream cheese frosting.
- Vanilla Cake Mix: Creates a classic base that lets the strawberry gelatin shine.
Keep in mind that the flavor of the cake mix will significantly influence the overall taste, so choose one that complements the strawberry and cream cheese elements.
How long do these brownies last?
Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies can be stored for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Keep them in an airtight container to prevent the frosting from drying out and to maintain the crumble’s texture. For the best taste and texture, allow them to come to room temperature before serving.
Can I freeze these brownies?
Yes, these brownies freeze well!
- Freeze: Cut the brownies into squares and layer them between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container.
- Thaw: Move the container to the refrigerator and let the brownies thaw overnight. Serve chilled or bring to room temperature before enjoying.
This method preserves both the frosting and crumble, ensuring the brownies taste fresh after thawing.
Do I have to use strawberry gelatin?
Strawberry gelatin enhances both the color and flavor of this dessert, but it’s not mandatory. Alternatives include:
- Freeze-Dried Strawberries: Crush them into a powder for natural strawberry flavor and color.
- Strawberry Extract: A few drops can provide a similar flavor boost.
- Natural Food Coloring: Use beet powder or pink food coloring for a vibrant hue without additional flavor.
Can I make this recipe without a food processor?
Certainly! If you don’t have a food processor, you can prepare the crumble manually:
- Crush the Cookies: Place the Golden Oreos in a sealed zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
- Mix by Hand: Combine the crushed cookies with melted butter and strawberry gelatin in a bowl, stirring until well coated.
This method is just as effective and doesn’t require any special equipment.
Print
Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies
- Total Time: 45 mins
Description
These delightful Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies combine the sweetness of strawberry cake, a creamy layer of cheesecake frosting, and a crunchy strawberry shortcake crumble. A colorful and delicious dessert perfect for any occasion, these brownies are as beautiful as they are tasty!
Ingredients
For the Brownies:
- 1 box strawberry cake mix
- 1/2 cup salted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp strawberry gelatin
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz block cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup salted butter, softened
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tbsp heavy cream
For the Strawberry Shortcake Crumble:
- 20 Golden Oreos (about half a standard package)
- 4 tbsp salted butter, melted
- 4 tbsp strawberry gelatin
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch glass baking dish with parchment paper, spray with non-stick cooking spray, and set aside.
2️⃣ Make the Brownie Batter:
In a medium mixing bowl, combine melted butter, eggs, strawberry cake mix, and 2 tablespoons of strawberry gelatin. Mix until well combined; the batter will be thick.
3️⃣ Bake the Brownies:
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish using a rubber spatula.
Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the brownies cool completely.
4️⃣ Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting:
In a mixing bowl, beat together cream cheese, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Add powdered sugar and heavy cream, and beat until the frosting is light, fluffy, and spreadable.
5️⃣ Frost the Brownies:
Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled brownies.
6️⃣ Make the Strawberry Shortcake Crumble:
In a food processor, pulse the Golden Oreos until broken into small chunks, leaving some larger pieces for texture.
Sprinkle the remaining strawberry gelatin over the cookie crumbs, then drizzle with melted butter. Pulse a few more times until combined.
7️⃣ Assemble the Brownies:
Sprinkle the crumble mixture evenly over the frosted brownies, pressing it gently into the frosting to help it adhere.
8️⃣ Cut and Serve:
Cut the brownies into squares and serve. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Notes
- Substitutions: For a less sweet option, use unsweetened whipped cream instead of frosting.
- Storage: These brownies are best kept in the fridge to maintain their layers.
- Tip: Add a drizzle of melted white chocolate for an extra decorative touch!
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
