If you are on the hunt for a dessert that brings together the fudgy richness of brownies with a delightful burst of fruity crunch, you have just found your new favorite. The Strawberry Crunch Brownies Recipe is an irresistible combination of classic chocolate goodness and refreshing strawberry flavor, topped with a crisp texture that makes every bite a celebration. Imagine biting into a soft, chewy brownie layered with creamy strawberry pudding and finished with a sweet, crunchy topping featuring freeze-dried strawberries and white chocolate chips—pure joy in dessert form!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple but essential ingredients is the first step toward creating these memorable brownies. Each item plays a unique role, whether it’s bringing moisture, sweetness, texture, or vibrant flavor that makes this recipe stand apart.
- Fudge brownie mix (18.3 oz): The base for your chewy, chocolatey brownies, making preparation quick and foolproof.
- Instant strawberry pudding mix (3.4 oz): Adds a smooth, fruity layer that brightens the overall dessert.
- Milk (1/2 cup): Helps the pudding mixture set perfectly without being too runny.
- White chocolate chips (1 cup): Bring creamy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the strawberries.
- Freeze-dried strawberries, crushed (1/2 cup): Give a punch of natural strawberry flavor and satisfying crunch.
- Golden Oreos, crushed (1 cup): Add buttery, crisp texture and a hint of vanilla to the topping.
- Unsalted butter, melted (2 tbsp): Binds the crunchy topping together for a lovely bite.
- Whipped topping or frosting (1/2 cup, optional): For an extra layer of creaminess if you want to dress up your brownies even more.
- Eggs, oil, water: These wet ingredients are used according to the brownie mix package to achieve the perfect batter consistency.
How to Make Strawberry Crunch Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Brownies
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and either line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or spray it with nonstick spray. Next, prepare the brownie batter exactly as directed on the box using the eggs, oil, and water. Pour this rich batter into the pan and bake for about 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs—this ensures the brownies stay chewy and not overbaked. Once done, let the brownies cool completely because the next steps require a chilled base for the topping.
Step 2: Make the Strawberry Pudding Layer
While your brownies are cooling, whisk together the instant strawberry pudding mix and milk in a small bowl. Allow this mixture to set for a few minutes until it thickens slightly. This pudding acts as a creamy, fruity layer that beautifully complements the rich chocolate and adds moisture without sogginess.
Step 3: Prepare the Crunchy Strawberry Topping
In a separate bowl, combine the crushed Golden Oreos, crushed freeze-dried strawberries, white chocolate chips, and melted butter. This combination is what gives these brownies their signature crunch and bursts of strawberry flavor. The melted butter helps everything stick together while adding richness.
Step 4: Assemble and Chill
When the brownies are completely cooled, spread a thin layer of whipped topping or the prepared strawberry pudding mixture evenly across the surface—this step is optional but highly recommended for added creaminess. Then, gently press the strawberry crunch topping evenly over the pudding layer, making sure it adheres nicely. Pop the pan into the fridge to chill for about 30 minutes. This chilling step helps the layers set firmly and makes slicing the brownies a breeze without the crunch topping falling apart.
How to Serve Strawberry Crunch Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
To make your strawberry crunch brownies look even more special, try a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted white chocolate on top. Fresh sliced strawberries can also be scattered around the platter for a pretty presentation and an extra touch of freshness.
Side Dishes
Serve these brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent dessert experience. A warm cup of coffee or fruity herbal tea also pairs beautifully, balancing the sweetness perfectly after a meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the brownies into small, bite-sized squares for a party platter or arrange them in layers to create a striking dessert parfait using crushed brownies and whipped topping. Alternatively, place a single brownie on a dessert plate with a drizzle of strawberry sauce around it to wow your guests visually and tastewise.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, cover them tightly with plastic wrap or transfer them to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. The brownies will stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days, maintaining that delightful crunchy topping and moist brownie base.
Freezing
You can freeze these strawberry crunch brownies for longer storage. Wrap individual squares or the whole pan tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before freezing. When properly stored, they can last up to 2 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating
Since these brownies have a crunchy topping, reheating in the microwave is not ideal as it may soften the crunch. Instead, let them come to room temperature naturally or warm briefly in an oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes to refresh the texture without losing the signature crunch.
FAQs
Can I use homemade brownies instead of boxed mix?
Absolutely! Homemade brownies will work wonderfully in the Strawberry Crunch Brownies Recipe, and many find that it adds an even richer, more personalized touch to the dessert.
Is freeze-dried strawberries the same as dried strawberries?
Not quite. Freeze-dried strawberries retain more crispness and intense flavor, which adds the perfect crunch and vibrant taste, while dried strawberries are softer and chewier, which might affect the topping texture.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, by using a gluten-free brownie mix and gluten-free crushed cookies instead of Golden Oreos, you can adapt this dessert to fit a gluten-free diet without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Is the whipped topping necessary?
The whipped topping or frosting layer is optional but recommended for the extra creamy contrast it adds to the crunchy and fruity layers. Feel free to skip it for a simpler version that still packs plenty of flavor.
How do I get clean slices when cutting these brownies?
Chilling the brownies thoroughly before slicing is key to keeping the crunchy topping intact. Using a sharp knife warmed under hot water and wiped dry between cuts helps create neat, clean edges.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the way chocolate, strawberry, and crunch come together in this Strawberry Crunch Brownies Recipe. It’s a fun twist on the classic brownie that’s easy enough for any home baker to tackle but impressive enough to share with family and friends. Don’t wait for a special occasion to try it—once you do, it’s bound to become a dessert you make again and again!
Print
Strawberry Crunch Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 9 brownies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these Strawberry Crunch Brownies, a luscious twist on classic fudge brownies enhanced with a creamy strawberry pudding layer and a crunchy topping of white chocolate, freeze-dried strawberries, and Golden Oreos. Perfect as a fruity, indulgent dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients
Brownie Base
- 1 box (18.3 oz) fudge brownie mix (plus eggs, oil, and water as called for on the package)
Strawberry Pudding Layer
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant strawberry pudding mix
- 1/2 cup milk
Crunch Topping
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed
- 1 cup Golden Oreos, crushed
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Optional Layer or Topping
- 1/2 cup whipped topping or frosting
Instructions
- Prepare Brownie Batter: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Prepare the fudge brownie mix as directed on the package, including eggs, oil, and water.
- Bake Brownies: Pour the prepared brownie batter evenly into the baking pan. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Remove from the oven and allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan.
- Make Strawberry Pudding: In a small bowl, combine the instant strawberry pudding mix with 1/2 cup milk. Stir well and let it sit for a few minutes to thicken slightly.
- Prepare Crunch Topping: In another bowl, mix together the crushed Golden Oreos, crushed freeze-dried strawberries, melted unsalted butter, and white chocolate chips until well combined to form the crunchy topping.
- Assemble the Layers: Once brownies have cooled, optionally spread a thin layer of whipped topping or the prepared strawberry pudding mixture evenly over the surface of the brownies.
- Add Crunch Topping and Chill: Press the strawberry crunch topping evenly over the pudding or whipped topping layer, gently pressing it into place. Refrigerate the brownies for at least 30 minutes to allow the topping to set.
- Serve: Slice into 9 squares and serve chilled. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days for best freshness.
Notes
- For a deeper, richer flavor, substitute the boxed brownie mix with your favorite homemade brownie recipe.
- Enhance sweetness and decoration by drizzling melted white chocolate over the crunch topping before chilling.
- Keep leftovers refrigerated to maintain freshness and texture for up to 4 days.
