Strawberry Shortcake Brownies

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When you combine the decadence of fudgy brownies with the nostalgic charm of strawberry shortcake, you get something truly magical: Strawberry Shortcake Brownies. These layered beauties feature a rich chocolate brownie base, a creamy cheesecake-like filling, a fluffy strawberry layer, and a buttery crumble on top. Finished with whipped cream and a fresh strawberry slice, every bite is indulgent yet perfectly balanced.

Whether you’re hosting a party, need a show-stopping dessert for a potluck, or just craving something sweet and satisfying, these brownies will impress. Their eye-catching layers and vibrant colors make them as photogenic as they are delicious, and they’re surprisingly easy to make.

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Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Shortcake Brownies

• Dessert Fusion: Combines two dessert favorites in one delightful square.
• Layered Perfection: Each bite delivers chocolate, vanilla creaminess, and fresh strawberry flavor.
• Crowd-Pleaser: A guaranteed hit at parties, bake sales, or celebrations.
• Easy to Customize: Add white chocolate chips, use flavored whipped cream, or swirl in some jam.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: These hold up beautifully in the fridge and are even better the next day.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into baking, it’s best to organize your tools. Preparation ensures everything comes together smoothly and mess-free.

Essential Tools and Equipment:

• 8×8-inch Baking Pan: Ensures even layers; using parchment paper helps with easy removal.
• Mixing Bowls (3): One for the brownie batter, one for the cream layer, and one for the strawberry layer.
• Electric Mixer or Stand Mixer: Critical for achieving fluffy, lump-free layers.
• Rubber Spatula: For smoothing layers and folding ingredients gently.
• Offset Spatula (Optional): Helps in creating clean, even layers.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons: Precision is key for baking success.

Taking the time to prep your workspace and tools ensures that each delicious layer of these Strawberry Shortcake Brownies comes out just right.

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Ingredients for the Strawberry Shortcake Brownies

Let’s talk flavor building blocks. Each ingredient plays a delicious role in bringing together the magic of these layered brownies:

• Unsalted Butter: Provides richness and helps create that perfect fudgy brownie texture.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness to both the brownie and cream layers.
• Eggs: Binds the ingredients and gives structure to the brownie base.
• Vanilla Extract: Boosts flavor in all layers with a warm, sweet note.
• All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of structure for brownies and the crumble.
• Cocoa Powder: Delivers deep chocolate flavor to the base.
• Cream Cheese: Forms the luscious, tangy middle layer.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and smooths the cream and strawberry layers.
• Strawberry Gelatin Mix: Adds flavor and that gorgeous pink hue to the strawberry layer.
• Heavy Whipping Cream: Whipped to peaks, this crowns the bars with a soft, fluffy finish.
• Fresh Strawberries: Sliced on top for freshness, color, and a juicy bite.
• Strawberry Shortcake Crumble: Made from crushed golden cookies and strawberry powder for a buttery, bakery-style topping.

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How To Make the Strawberry Shortcake Brownies

Step 1: Make the Brownie Base

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking pan with parchment paper. In a bowl, melt butter and mix in sugar. Add eggs and vanilla extract, then stir in cocoa powder and flour. Pour the batter into your prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes. Let cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer

Beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and a splash of vanilla until smooth. Spread this evenly over the cooled brownie base.

Step 3: Whip Up the Strawberry Layer

Whisk strawberry gelatin mix with a small amount of hot water until dissolved, then let cool slightly. Fold it into whipped cream or a mix of whipped topping and cream cheese. Spread gently over the cream layer.

Step 4: Make the Strawberry Shortcake Crumble

Pulse golden sandwich cookies with a spoonful of strawberry gelatin powder until crumbly. Sprinkle this over the strawberry layer for texture and extra flavor.

Step 5: Garnish and Chill

Pipe or spoon whipped cream on top and add fresh strawberry slices. Refrigerate the whole dessert for at least 2 hours before slicing into bars.

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How to Serve and Store Strawberry Shortcake Brownies

These bars are at their best when chilled. For a clean slice, use a warm knife and wipe it clean between cuts. Serve them on a pretty platter topped with extra whipped cream or even a drizzle of white chocolate for that wow factor.

To store, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. If you’re prepping for a future event, they also freeze well—just slice and layer them between sheets of parchment in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these brownies in advance?

Yes! In fact, they taste even better after chilling for several hours or overnight. Perfect for prepping ahead of a party or event.

Can I use a boxed brownie mix?

Absolutely. If you’re short on time, a good-quality boxed brownie mix works great as the base. Just let it cool fully before layering.

What can I substitute for strawberry gelatin?

You can use freeze-dried strawberries crushed into powder or a strawberry syrup swirl. Just make sure it’s not too runny.

How do I keep the layers from mixing?

Make sure each layer is completely cooled or set before adding the next. Chilling between steps helps the structure stay intact.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Fresh is best for topping, but if you’re blending strawberries into the topping or layer, thawed and well-drained frozen berries work fine.

How do I make the crumble if I don’t have golden cookies?

You can substitute with shortbread cookies or even graham crackers for a buttery crunch. Add a little melted butter and strawberry powder.

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Want More Dessert Bar Ideas?

If these Strawberry Shortcake Brownies hit the spot, you’ll definitely want to try these other tasty treats from my kitchen:

• Brownie Refrigerator Cake for an ultra-creamy, chilled chocolate dream.
• Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Cups that are gooey, golden, and peanut buttery perfect.
• Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake if you love strawberries and want something even easier.
• Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake for a nostalgic flavor twist with a fruity punch.
• Gooey Strawberry Earthquake Cake if you love strawberries and cream in molten form.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go heavy on the strawberry crumble? Add a chocolate drizzle? Or swap in raspberries?

I love seeing the creative ways you make these recipes your own. Got a question? Ask away — let’s make dessert even better together.

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