As the sun streams through my kitchen window on a lazy afternoon, I’m reminded of those cherished moments spent savoring sweets with loved ones. That’s when this delightful recipe for Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies makes its grand entrance, and I can’t help but smile! With just a handful of ingredients and a bit of love, you’ll find yourself creating a luscious treat that elevates any gathering—from casual family dinners to cozy get-togethers with friends.
Imagine biting into a soft, chewy brownie topped with a creamy layer of sweet cream cheese frosting. The vibrant flavor of strawberries dances on your palate, leaving you craving more, while the crunch of Golden Oreos adds a delightful surprise. This dessert doesn’t just look good; it’s a showstopper that will impress anyone lucky enough to taste it.
Whether you’re trying to break free from fast food monotony or simply want to indulge in something homemade and delicious, these Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies are the perfect solution. Let’s get baking!
Why are Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies irresistible?
Decadent flavor: The luscious combination of strawberry and cream cheese creates a rich taste that’s hard to resist.
Unique texture: The chewy brownies paired with creamy frosting and crunchy Golden Oreo crumbs offer an unforgettable bite.
Simple ingredients: Made with a box of strawberry cake mix and everyday items, you won’t need to hunt for hard-to-find ingredients.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, these brownies will wow your friends and family with their colorful presentation and delightful flavor—everyone will be asking for the recipe!
Quick to prepare: In just under 30 minutes, you can whip up this delicious dessert, making it a fantastic choice for impromptu occasions.
Experience a slice of heaven with your loved ones today!
Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies Ingredients
Get ready to create a delicious masterpiece!
For the Brownies
- Strawberry cake mix – easy and provides the base flavor for these scrumptious brownies.
- Salted butter (½ cup, melted) – adds richness and moisture to the brownies.
- Large eggs (2) – binds the ingredients together for a perfect texture.
- Strawberry gelatin (2 tablespoons) – intensifies the strawberry flavor, making these brownies irresistible!
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Cream cheese (8 oz. block, softened) – brings a silky smooth creaminess that pairs perfectly with the brownies.
- Salted butter (¼ cup, softened) – adds a touch of sweetness and depth to the frosting.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon) – enhances flavor and aroma, making the frosting irresistible.
- Powdered sugar (½ cup) – sweetens the frosting and gives it that fluffy texture.
- Heavy cream (1-2 tablespoons) – helps achieve a wonderful spreadable consistency for the frosting.
For the Crumble Topping
- Golden Oreos (20, about ½ standard package) – adds crunch and sweetness, a delightful contrast to the creamy frosting.
- Salted butter (4 tablespoons, melted) – binds the cookie crumbs together.
- Strawberry gelatin (4 tablespoons, remaining amount) – adds a fun fruity pop to the topping!
Now you’re all set to gather these ingredients and embark on your baking adventure! Let’s make those Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies come to life!
How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies
-
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8 glass baking dish with parchment paper, ensuring it’s ready for your scrumptious brownies. Don’t forget a quick spray of non-stick cooking spray!
-
Combine the melted butter, eggs, strawberry cake mix, and strawberry gelatin in a medium mixing bowl. Mix until everything is well incorporated. The batter will be thick and delightful!
-
Spread the thick brownie batter into your prepared baking dish using a rubber spatula. Bake for 25 minutes until it’s just set. Let them cool completely before frosting.
-
Beat together the softened cream cheese, softened butter, and vanilla extract in a mixing bowl until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and heavy cream, whipping until you achieve a fluffy, smooth frosting.
-
Frost the cooled brownies generously with the cream cheese frosting, spreading it evenly to cover every corner.
-
Pulse the Golden Oreos in a food processor until they’re crumbled—leave some larger chunks for extra texture.
-
Sprinkle the remaining strawberry gelatin over the Oreo crumbs and drizzle with melted butter. Pulse a few more times until everything is well mixed together.
-
Top the frosted brownies with the cookie crumble, pressing it gently into the frosting for a delightful crunch in every bite.
-
Cut the brownies into squares and serve. Enjoy the oohs and aahs from your family and friends!
Optional: Serve with fresh strawberries on top for an extra burst of flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies are a fantastic option for meal prep, making your busy days a little sweeter! You can prepare the brownie base up to 24 hours in advance. Just bake, let cool completely, and store in an airtight container at room temperature. The cream cheese frosting can also be made up to 3 days ahead—store it in the fridge and allow it to come to room temperature before spreading it on the brownies. For the crumble topping, mix the crumbled Golden Oreos and strawberry gelatin a day before, and keep it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply frost the brownies, sprinkle with the topping, and cut into squares for a delicious treat that tastes just as fresh as when it was made!
Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies Variations
Feel free to get creative and put your own twist on these delightful brownies!
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cake mix and ensure your cookies are gluten-free to cater to any dietary restrictions.
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts into the brownie batter for a delicious crunch that complements the softness of the brownies.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top for an extra layer of sweetness that will make every bite irresistible.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute the cream cheese with coconut cream and use dairy-free butter in the frosting for a plant-based version that doesn’t skimp on taste.
- Berry Blast: Toss in a cup of fresh blueberries or raspberries in the brownie batter for a delightful fruit medley that enhances the flavors beautifully.
- Heat It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the brownie mix for a subtle heat that complements the sweetness of the strawberries.
- Minty Fresh: Incorporate peppermint extract into the frosting for a refreshing twist, creating a unique flavor profile that surprises and delights.
- Layered Delight: Create a layered dessert by alternating layers of brownies and whipped cream in a parfait glass for a stunning presentation.
Every variation adds its own unique flair, inviting you and your loved ones to discover a new favorite! Happy baking!
How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies
Room Temperature: Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep them away from direct sunlight to maintain freshness.
Fridge: If you want to prolong their shelf life, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just ensure they’re in an airtight container to prevent the frosting from absorbing any odors.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze your brownies for up to 3 months. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: Enjoy warmed brownies by microwaving them for about 10–15 seconds. This melts the frosting slightly, enhancing the creamy experience of your Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies!
What to Serve with Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies?
Indulging in these delightful brownies opens the door to a world of delicious pairings that will enhance your dessert experience.
-
Fresh Strawberries: These bright, juicy berries add a refreshing burst of flavor and texture, balancing the sweetness of the brownies.
-
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of whipped cream serves as an elegant contrast to the cream cheese frosting, making every bite a creamy delight.
-
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of this classic frozen treat brings a cool, creamy element that complements the strawberry flavors wonderfully—plus, who can resist that scoop?
-
Chocolate Sauce: A drizzle of rich chocolate sauce adds a decadent, indulgent touch—a chocolate lover’s dream atop fruity brownies!
-
Mint Leaves: A few fresh mint leaves are a surprising garnish that not only adds color but also a refreshing herbal note that brightens the dish.
-
Sparkling Lemonade: The zesty bubbles of sparkling lemonade provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the brownies, making it a perfect pairing for warm afternoons.
-
Coffee or Espresso: This pairing might seem bold, but the warm bitterness of coffee cuts through the sweetness and complements the cream cheese perfectly.
Enjoy creating a delightful spread around those Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies, and let the flavors dance on your palate!
Expert Tips for Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies
-
Choose Quality Ingredients: Fresh, high-quality strawberries and cream cheese will enhance the flavor of your strawberry cheesecake brownies. Always opt for full-fat versions for the best creamy texture.
-
Don’t Overmix: When combining the brownie batter, mix just until the ingredients are incorporated to avoid dense brownies. Remember, they’re meant to be soft and chewy!
-
Cool Completely: Make sure your brownies are completely cooled before frosting. This prevents the cream cheese frosting from melting and sliding off, ensuring a beautiful presentation.
-
Adjust for Sweetness: Taste your cream cheese frosting before spreading it on the brownies. If you prefer it sweeter, feel free to add a bit more powdered sugar.
-
Press Down the Crumble: When adding the Golden Oreo crumble topping, pressing it gently into the frosting ensures each bite has that delicious crunch and sweetness of the topping.
-
Storing Leftovers: Keep any leftover strawberry cheesecake brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can also be frozen for a treat later on, just thaw before serving.
Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe FAQs
How do I know when the strawberries are ripe for the brownies?
Absolutely! When selecting strawberries, look for ones that are bright red, plump, and firm. Avoid any that have green or white spots, or are soft with dark spots all over, as these indicate they may not be at their best.
How should I store leftover Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies?
Very easy! Store your brownies at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If you’d like to extend their freshness, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just make sure the container is sealed tightly to prevent any odors from the fridge affecting the brownies.
Can I freeze Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies? If so, how?
Of course! To freeze your brownies, wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the fridge overnight for the best texture.
What should I do if my cream cheese frosting is too thin?
No worries! If your frosting turns out too thin, try adding a bit more powdered sugar—start with a tablespoon at a time—until you reach your desired thickness. Make sure to mix it well after each addition until everything is nice and fluffy, ensuring a perfect spread over the brownies.
Are there any allergy considerations when making these brownies?
Definitely! The recipe contains common allergens such as wheat (from the cake mix), eggs, and dairy (from the butter and cream cheese). If you’re serving these to guests, be sure to ask about any allergies. You can also opt for gluten-free cake mix and dairy substitutes to make these more inclusive for those with dietary restrictions.
What’s the best way to cut the brownies for serving?
For clean cuts, use a sharp knife that has been warmed under hot water and dried before slicing. This technique helps to minimize any sticking or tearing of the brownies, giving you those perfect squares that are perfect for serving and impressing your guests!
Decadent Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies You’ll Adore
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8 glass baking dish with parchment paper and spray with non-stick cooking spray.
- Combine melted butter, eggs, strawberry cake mix, and strawberry gelatin in a medium bowl. Mix until well incorporated.
- Spread the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 25 minutes until just set. Let cool completely.
- Beat together softened cream cheese, softened butter, and vanilla extract until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and heavy cream, whipping until fluffy.
- Frost the cooled brownies generously with the cream cheese frosting.
- Crush the Golden Oreos in a food processor until crumbled with some larger chunks for texture.
- Sprinkle remaining strawberry gelatin over Oreo crumbs and drizzle with melted butter. Pulse to mix.
- Top the frosted brownies with the cookie crumble, pressing it gently into the frosting.
- Cut the brownies into squares and serve.