If you’re on the hunt for a treat that’s both nostalgic and wildly delicious, Strawberry Crunch Brownies are about to become your new obsession. Imagine decadent, fudgy brownies topped with a layer of creamy strawberry pudding, then covered with a vibrant, sweet-and-crunchy strawberry Oreo topping. Every bite is a blend of chocolate, fruit, and crunch that reminds you of those classic strawberry shortcake ice cream bars, but with an irresistible brownie twist. Whether you’re making them for a summer party, potluck, or just a Wednesday night treat, these brownies deliver a beautiful pop of color and show-stopping flavor that will have everyone begging for the recipe.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The lineup for Strawberry Crunch Brownies is short, sweet, and so very effective. Each ingredient plays a unique role in building those crave-worthy layers of flavor and texture, from gooey fudge to cool, creamy strawberry, to that unmistakable crunch on top.
- Fudge brownie mix: Brings all the chocolatey goodness and ensures a fudgy, dense base with minimal effort.
- Eggs, oil, and water: These are the usual suspects called for in the brownie mix—don’t skip them or your base won’t set up right!
- Instant strawberry pudding mix: Adds a sweet, strawberry flavor and layer of creamy decadence.
- Milk: Helps the pudding thicken just right; whole milk makes it extra-rich.
- White chocolate chips: Melt into the topping and add little bursts of sweetness in every bite.
- Freeze-dried strawberries, crushed: Bring concentrated berry flavor and vibrant pink color—don’t substitute fresh or frozen here.
- Golden Oreos, crushed: This is where the “crunch” comes in, echoing those famous strawberry shortcake ice cream bars.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Binds the topping together and keeps it perfectly crisp as it cools.
- Whipped topping or frosting (optional): A little goes a long way to add another creamy element or to help anchor the crunch layer.
How to Make Strawberry Crunch Brownies
Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Preheat
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or hit it with a generous coat of nonstick spray. This step is crucial for easy brownie removal—no sticking, no mess, all joy.
Step 2: Mix and Bake the Brownies
In a large bowl, prepare the brownie batter according to the directions on the box, adding the eggs, oil, and water as instructed. Give it a good stir until everything’s blended and pour that gorgeous batter into your prepared pan. Slide the pan into the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs. Trust me on this—underbaked is better than overbaked for that gooey brownie bliss.
Step 3: Cool Completely
Once baked, let your brownies cool in the pan. If you rush this step, the strawberry pudding and crunch topping might slide right off, so patience really pays off here. Set them aside for at least an hour, or until completely cool to the touch.
Step 4: Make the Strawberry Pudding Layer
In a small bowl, whisk the instant strawberry pudding mix with cold milk until slightly thickened. Let it sit for a few minutes so it’s spoonable but not stiff—a soft, spreadable layer is perfect. This is the key to that strawberry shortcake vibe!
Step 5: Make the Crunch Topping
In another bowl, combine the crushed freeze-dried strawberries and Golden Oreos. Pour in the melted butter and toss until everything’s evenly coated. Stir in the white chocolate chips last—this mix should look a little crumbly but stick together when pressed.
Step 6: Assemble Your Strawberry Crunch Brownies
Once your brownies are cool, spread a thin layer of the strawberry pudding mixture, or the whipped topping (or a mix of both), over the entire surface if you like it extra creamy. Next, generously sprinkle and gently press the strawberry crunch topping across the top of the brownies, making sure you cover every inch. Give it a gentle press so the crunch layer sticks.
Step 7: Chill, Slice, and Serve
Pop the whole pan in the fridge and chill for at least 30 minutes. This step helps set the layers and makes slicing a breeze. Once chilled, lift the brownies out of the pan using the parchment edges, cut into 9 generous squares, and get ready to watch them disappear!
How to Serve Strawberry Crunch Brownies
Garnishes
For a festive finish, scatter a few extra crushed freeze-dried strawberries or White chocolate shavings across the top before serving. A little drizzle of melted white chocolate or a dollop of whipped cream can also make each piece look bakery-worthy. If you really want to play up the strawberry theme, tuck a fresh strawberry slice into each brownie square just before serving.
Side Dishes
Pair Strawberry Crunch Brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic brownie-and-ice-cream combo. Light, tangy yogurt or lemon sorbet are also lovely, especially if you want to balance the sweetness with a hint of tart.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party-ready display, cut the brownies into bite-sized cubes and arrange them on a tiered dessert tray. Or, stack small squares into parfait glasses, alternating with whipped cream and extra strawberry crunch topping for a mini trifle effect. They’re also adorable when packaged in bakery boxes for the ultimate homemade gift.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep the Strawberry Crunch Brownies tasting fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay delicious for up to 4 days. If you’ve already sliced them, layer parchment paper between brownies to stop that pretty crunch topping from sticking and getting soggy.
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze these! After assembling, pop the uncut brownies (or individual squares) in the freezer on a baking sheet until firm, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results—the crunch will hold up surprisingly well.
Reheating
Strawberry Crunch Brownies are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, so skip the microwave. If you want to refresh the crunch layer on leftovers, you can toast an extra sprinkle of Oreo-strawberry crumble on a baking sheet for a couple minutes and add just before serving.
FAQs
Can I use homemade brownies instead of boxed mix?
Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade brownie recipe that’s super fudgy, use it as your base. The boxed mix just makes things quicker, but homemade adds an extra special touch.
What if I can’t find freeze-dried strawberries?
Freeze-dried strawberries are key for that intense berry flavor and crunch, but if you’re in a pinch, some people have used freeze-dried raspberries or even a mix-in of strawberry cereal as a creative substitute.
Is the whipped topping layer necessary?
No, it’s optional! It does make the brownies extra creamy, but you can go right to the pudding or skip both for a denser, more classic brownie feel. Just remember, the topping does help the crunch layer stick.
How do I crush the Golden Oreos and freeze-dried strawberries?
A food processor makes this super quick, but you can also put them in a zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin if you want chunkier pieces for extra texture in your Strawberry Crunch Brownies.
Can I make these brownies gluten free?
Yes! Simply use a gluten-free brownie mix and swap in gluten-free sandwich cookies for the Golden Oreos. The rest of the ingredients should be naturally gluten free—just double check the labels to be safe.
Final Thoughts
Strawberry Crunch Brownies are pure joy: easy to whip up, crowd-pleasing, and full of summer flavor with every pink, chocolaty, crunchy bite. If you love strawberry shortcake or crave a little extra sparkle in your brownies, this recipe is an absolute must-try. Don’t wait for a special occasion—treat yourself and your loved ones to a batch soon!
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Strawberry Crunch Brownies Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 9 brownies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delightful combination of fudgy brownies and fruity strawberry crunch with this easy-to-make Strawberry Crunch Brownies recipe. Perfect for a sweet treat that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
Brownie Base:
- 1 box (18.3 oz) fudge brownie mix (plus eggs, oil, and water as called for)
Strawberry Pudding Layer:
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant strawberry pudding mix
- 1/2 cup milk
Strawberry Crunch Topping:
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed
- 1 cup Golden Oreos, crushed
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Optional:
- 1/2 cup whipped topping or frosting (for layering or topping)
Instructions
- Preheat oven: to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or nonstick spray.
- Prepare brownie base: according to package directions and bake until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs, about 35–40 minutes. Let cool.
- Mix strawberry pudding: with milk until slightly set.
- Make crunch topping: combine Golden Oreos, freeze-dried strawberries, melted butter, and white chocolate chips.
- Assembly: Spread a thin layer of whipped topping or pudding mixture over cooled brownies, then press on the strawberry crunch topping. Chill for 30 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use homemade brownies instead of boxed mix.
- Drizzle melted white chocolate on top for extra sweetness.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
