These Strawberry Crunch Brownies are soft, chewy, and layered with a creamy center and a buttery strawberry crunch topping that melts in your mouth. Inspired by classic strawberry crunch desserts, this recipe combines a rich brownie-style base with sweet strawberry flavor, making it perfect for Valentine’s Day, parties, or anytime you want a fun pink dessert that looks as good as it tastes.
Ingredients
For the Strawberry Brownie Base
- 1 box strawberry cake mix
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup vegetable oil
For the Creamy Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Strawberry Crunch Topping
- 1 cup crushed golden sandwich cookies
- ½ cup strawberry gelatin powder
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Brownie Batter
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.In a bowl, mix the strawberry cake mix, eggs, and oil until a thick batter forms.Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Layer
In another bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth.Drop spoonfuls of the mixture over the strawberry batter and gently spread into an even layer.
Step 3: Add the Strawberry Crunch Topping
Mix crushed cookies, strawberry gelatin powder, and melted butter until crumbly.Sprinkle evenly over the cream cheese layer.
Step 4: Bake
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the center is set and edges are lightly golden.Remove from oven and let cool completely before slicing.
Cooking Notes
- Let brownies cool fully before cutting for clean layers
- Do not overbake or the brownies will be dry
- Press the crunch topping lightly so it sticks after baking
- Room-temperature cream cheese prevents lumps
- Chill before slicing for extra neat squares
Variation
- Use vanilla cake mix instead of strawberry for a lighter base
- Add white chocolate chips to the brownie batter
- Swap cream cheese layer with sweetened condensed milk drizzle
- Use freeze-dried strawberries instead of gelatin for a natural crunch
- Make them thicker by baking in a smaller pan
Tips
- Line the pan with parchment for easy removal
- Use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts
- Store leftovers covered in the fridge
- These bars taste even better the next day
- Double the recipe for a crowd using a 9×13 pan
Serving Suggestions
- Serve chilled or at room temperature
- Dust lightly with powdered sugar for presentation
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream
- Add fresh strawberries on the side
- Perfect for Valentine’s dessert trays or bake sales
Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutritional Info (Approximate per bar)
Calories: 310
Carbohydrates: 36g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 17g
Sugar: 24g
FAQs
Are Strawberry Crunch Brownies real brownies?
- They have a brownie-like texture but use cake mix for ease and flavor.
Can I make these ahead of time?
- Yes, they can be made 1–2 days in advance.
Can I freeze them?
- Yes, freeze sliced bars in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
Can I skip the cream cheese layer?
- Yes, but it adds balance and richness.
Are these good for Valentine’s Day?
- Absolutely, the pink color and strawberry flavor make them perfect.
Conclusion
Strawberry Crunch Brownies are the ultimate pink dessert, combining soft strawberry layers, creamy filling, and a crunchy topping in every bite. Easy to make and visually stunning, they’re a guaranteed hit for holidays, parties, and strawberry lovers.