Strawberry Crunch Brownies Recipe

Introduction

These Strawberry Crunch Brownies are a delightful twist on a classic treat, combining a rich strawberry-flavored brownie base with a creamy frosting and a crunchy, fruity cookie topping. Perfect for spring gatherings or anytime you want a fresh, indulgent dessert.

Ingredients

• 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
• 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, room temperature
• ⅓ cup powdered sugar
• ⅓ cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 (8 ounce) tub whipped topping
• 36 vanilla sandwich cookies
• ¼ cup strawberry syrup
• Fresh strawberries for optional garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with baking spray.
2. Step 2: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, egg, melted butter, and heavy cream until smooth.
3. Step 3: Fold in the white chocolate chips, then spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan.
4. Step 4: Bake for 18-23 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and edges are golden brown.
5. Step 5: Let the brownies cool completely to room temperature.
6. Step 6: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy.
7. Step 7: Add sour cream and vanilla extract, beating until combined.
8. Step 8: Gently fold in the whipped topping and spread this mixture over the cooled brownies.
9. Step 9: Place the sandwich cookies into a food processor and pulse until roughly crumbled but not fine.
10. Step 10: Add strawberry syrup to the crumbled cookies and pulse until they are evenly coated and slightly pink.
11. Step 11: Sprinkle this cookie mixture evenly over the frosted brownies.
12. Step 12: Cut into squares and serve immediately, or chill until ready to serve. Garnish with fresh strawberries if desired.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crunch, try adding chopped nuts to the cookie topping.
• Use cream cheese that is softened to room temperature for a smoother frosting.
• Substitute raspberry syrup for a different fruity twist on the topping.
• Make sure the brownies are fully cooled before frosting to avoid melting the topping.

Storage

Store the Strawberry Crunch Brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The topping and frosting keep best chilled. To serve, you can let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes or enjoy them straight from the fridge. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the creamy frosting may be altered.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these brownies without a food processor?

Yes, you can place the vanilla sandwich cookies in a large zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin until roughly crumbled. Then toss with the strawberry syrup to coat.

Can I use homemade strawberry syrup instead of store-bought?

Absolutely! Homemade strawberry syrup works wonderfully and can add a fresh, natural flavor to the topping.

Strawberry Crunch Brownies Recipe

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4.8 from 139 reviews

Strawberry Crunch Brownies combine the rich texture of brownies with a fruity twist from strawberry cake mix and a creamy frosting topped with crushed vanilla sandwich cookies coated in strawberry syrup. This delightful dessert offers a perfect balance of chocolate, strawberry, and creamy flavors with a crunchy finish, ideal for any occasion.

• Author: Mila
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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

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 whipped topping

Topping

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

Instructions

1. Prepare Ingredients: Gather all ingredients needed to make the brownie layer, frosting, and topping.
2. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with baking spray to prevent sticking.
3. Mix Brownie Batter: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, egg, melted butter, and heavy cream. Stir until the mixture is smooth and uniformly combined.
4. Add White Chocolate Chips: Gently fold the white chocolate chips into the batter, ensuring even distribution without overmixing.
5. Bake Brownie Layer: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out to the edges. Bake for 18 to 23 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the edges are golden brown.
6. Cool Brownies: Remove the pan from the oven and allow the brownies to cool completely to room temperature to prepare for the frosting layer.
7. Make Frosting: Using a hand or stand mixer, beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and fluffy. Then add the sour cream and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
8. Incorporate Whipped Topping: Lightly fold the whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture until blended evenly and creamy.
9. Spread Frosting: Evenly spread the frosting mixture over the cooled brownie base, creating a smooth layer.
10. Prepare Topping: Place the vanilla sandwich cookies in a food processor and pulse several times to roughly crumble them into small pieces without pulverizing completely.
11. Add Strawberry Syrup: Add the strawberry syrup to the crumbled cookies and pulse until the mixture is evenly coated and lightly pink in color.
12. Finish and Serve: Sprinkle the strawberry-cookie mixture evenly over the frosted brownies. Cut into squares and serve immediately or chill until ready to enjoy. Optionally, garnish with fresh strawberries for added color and taste.

Notes

• Make sure the brownies are completely cooled before adding frosting to prevent melting.
• Use room temperature cream cheese to achieve a smooth frosting without lumps.
• For a more intense strawberry flavor, add fresh strawberries as garnish.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days for freshness.
• The crushed cookie topping adds texture; do not over-process them to maintain crunch.

Keywords: Strawberry brownies, white chocolate chips, cream cheese frosting, dessert bars, strawberry dessert, no-churn topping