Name: Strawberry Crunch Brownies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
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 ounces) 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, optional garnish

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Introduction

Strawberry Crunch Brownies are a delightful twist on traditional brownies, combining a rich strawberry-flavored base with a creamy frosting and a crunchy cookie topping. This easy-to-make dessert is perfect for summer gatherings or anytime you crave something sweet and refreshing.

The image shows a close-up of a layered dessert with three visible layers. The bottom layer is a smooth, pinkish-red, thick base with a firm texture. Above this is a white creamy layer, soft and fluffy, that contrasts gently with the base. The top layer is a crumbly mixture in shades of light orange and pink with small chunks, adding a rough texture on top. Part of the top dessert has a bite taken out of it, exposing the inner layers clearly. The dessert is set against a white marbled surface, and a slice of strawberry is slightly visible at the corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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 ounces) 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, optional garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with baking spray.
Step 2: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, egg, melted butter, and heavy cream until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Fold in the white chocolate chips and spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking dish.
Step 4: Bake for 18-23 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the edges are golden brown.
Step 5: Remove from the oven and let the brownies cool completely to room temperature.
Step 6: In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy.
Step 7: Add the sour cream and vanilla extract, beating until well combined.
Step 8: Gently fold in the whipped topping and spread this frosting evenly over the cooled brownies.
Step 9: Place the vanilla sandwich cookies in a food processor and pulse until roughly crumbled but not completely ground.
Step 10: Add the strawberry syrup to the cookie crumbs and pulse until the mixture is evenly coated and lightly pink.
Step 11: Sprinkle the cookie topping over the frosted brownies.
Step 12: Cut into squares, garnish with fresh strawberries if desired, and serve or chill until ready to enjoy.

Tips & Variations

For a stronger strawberry flavor, add a few drops of strawberry extract to the batter or frosting.
Substitute vanilla sandwich cookies with chocolate sandwich cookies for a chocolaty crunch.
Ensure the brownies are completely cooled before frosting to prevent melting or sliding.
Use fresh strawberry slices for an extra fresh garnish and vibrant presentation.

Storage

Store the brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Allow chilled brownies to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving for the best texture. You can also freeze the brownies, wrapped tightly, for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of a dessert with three visible layers. The bottom layer is pink and smooth, looking soft and creamy. Above this is a thick white layer with a fluffy, whipped texture. The top layer is crumbly and sprinkled with small bits of pink and light beige crumbs, giving a rough texture. The dessert is cut into squares, and one piece is stacked on top of another, revealing the layers clearly. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different cake mix flavor?

Yes, while strawberry cake mix gives this dessert its signature flavor, you can experiment with other flavors like vanilla or white cake for a different but delicious twist.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

You can substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives such as vegan butter, dairy-free cream cheese, and coconut-based whipped topping to make a dairy-free version.