Strawberry Cake Mix Brownies

By Olivia

Quick Benefits

Strawberry Cake Mix Brownies are a quick and simple treat that brings together the best of both cake and brownie textures. With the sweet, fruity flavor of strawberry cake mix combined with the rich butterscotch chips, these brownies are soft, chewy, and full of flavor. They are easy to prepare with minimal ingredients and perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a dessert in a pinch, or craving something sweet at home. The bright strawberry flavor combined with the comforting texture makes them a crowd-pleaser.

Essential Ingredients

1 (18.25 ounce) package strawberry cake mix: The base of the brownies, providing sweetness and the distinct strawberry flavor.
½ (11 ounce) package butterscotch chips: Adds a rich, buttery sweetness that complements the strawberry flavor.
2 eggs: Helps bind the ingredients together and adds structure to the brownies.
¼ cup brown sugar: Adds moisture and a deeper caramel-like sweetness.
¼ cup butter, softened: Provides richness and helps create a tender texture.
¼ cup water: To adjust the consistency of the batter, ensuring it spreads smoothly in the pan.

Preparation Steps

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, butterscotch chips, eggs, brown sugar, softened butter, and water. Stir everything together until the mixture is well blended and smooth.
Prepare to bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the pan.
Bake the brownies: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the edges start to pull away from the sides of the pan and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and slice: Allow the brownies to cool in the pan before slicing them into 12 squares.

Health Benefits

While these strawberry cake mix brownies are indulgent, they offer a little bit of nutritional value from ingredients like eggs and butter, which provide protein and healthy fats. However, due to their sugar and fat content, they are best enjoyed in moderation as a sweet treat rather than a regular part of your diet.

Serving Suggestions

Strawberry Cake Mix Brownies are delicious on their own or served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra treat. They’re perfect for birthday parties, casual gatherings, or as an after-school snack. You can also drizzle some extra chocolate or strawberry syrup over the top to enhance the fruity flavor.

Creative Variations

Chocolate Drizzle: For a richer flavor, drizzle melted chocolate or white chocolate over the brownies before serving.
Berry Mix-In: Add fresh strawberries or mixed berries to the batter for added fruitiness.
Nutty Twist: Incorporate chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for some crunch and flavor contrast.
Frosted Version: Top the cooled brownies with a layer of cream cheese frosting or buttercream for a decadent finish.

Storage Tips

Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap or foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Pro Tips

Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing the batter can lead to dense brownies. Mix the ingredients just until combined.
Check for Doneness: Since oven temperatures can vary, check the brownies with a toothpick around the 25-minute mark. If it comes out clean, they’re ready.
Let Them Cool: Allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting them into squares for cleaner slices and better texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of chips?
Yes, you can use other types of chips such as chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, or peanut butter chips depending on your preference.

Can I make these brownies without the cake mix?
Yes, you can make these brownies from scratch by substituting the cake mix with a mixture of flour, sugar, baking powder, and other ingredients. However, using cake mix simplifies the process and provides a fluffy texture.

How can I make these brownies gluten-free?
To make these brownies gluten-free, substitute the cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix or use a combination of gluten-free flour and baking powder.

Can I freeze the brownies?
Yes, these brownies freeze well. Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw them at room temperature.