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Strawberry shortcake brownies are the kind of dessert that stops conversations and starts cravings. Imagine rich vanilla cake-like brownies layered with creamy cheesecake and topped with juicy macerated strawberries. It’s the best of both classic strawberry shortcake and dense, indulgent brownies.

This dessert is a summer picnic’s dream, but truthfully, it works any time you want to treat yourself or impress guests. Each bite offers a contrast of textures—fudgy base, creamy middle, and fresh fruit finish. Plus, it looks as good as it tastes, making it perfect for parties, birthdays, or simply a weekend indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Shortcake Brownie

These strawberry shortcake brownies are more than just another dessert. They bring nostalgia and comfort in every square, while still feeling fancy enough for special occasions. The brownie base has a soft vanilla blondie texture that supports the velvety cheesecake and the sweet-tart strawberries, creating a dessert that feels both light and decadent.

They store well, slice beautifully, and can be prepped ahead of time. And they’re surprisingly simple to make—no complicated decorating, no special baking equipment, just a layered treat that wows.

What Kind of Strawberries Should I Use?

Fresh, ripe strawberries are best for this recipe, especially when in season. They offer natural sweetness and a vibrant color that makes the top pop. If using out-of-season berries or frozen ones, make sure they’re well-drained and slightly sweetened to mimic the juicy texture of summer strawberries. Organic is a bonus, but the key is freshness and flavor.

Ingredients for the Strawberry Shortcake Brownies

Strawberry shortcake brownies have a simple list of ingredients, but each one plays a crucial role in layering flavor and texture. The brownie base is a vanilla blondie-style, followed by a creamy cheesecake middle, and topped with strawberries that add a burst of freshness.

• Butter
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• All-purpose flour
• Cream cheese
• Powdered sugar
• Strawberries
• Lemon juice

Butter adds richness and helps the blondie base stay soft yet chewy.

Granulated sugar sweetens the base and balances the tanginess of the cheesecake layer.

Eggs provide structure and help bind everything together.

Vanilla extract is key to enhancing the cake-like flavor of the brownie base.

All-purpose flour gives body to the base without making it too dense.

Cream cheese creates the creamy middle that mimics shortcake’s whipped topping.

Powdered sugar smooths out the cheesecake and keeps it silky.

Strawberries bring freshness and natural sweetness, especially when macerated.

Lemon juice brightens the flavor of the strawberries and balances sweetness.

How To Make the Strawberry Shortcake Brownies

Step 1: Make the Blondie Base

Melt butter and combine it with sugar and vanilla until creamy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in flour. Spread this mixture evenly in a parchment-lined baking pan and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer

In a separate bowl, beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until completely smooth. Dollop over the blondie base and spread gently into an even layer.

Step 3: Bake and Cool

Bake the layers together in a preheated oven at 325°F until the edges are golden and the center is just set. Let cool completely before adding strawberries.

Step 4: Macerate the Strawberries

Slice fresh strawberries and toss them with a little sugar and lemon juice. Let them sit for 10–20 minutes to draw out juices.

Step 5: Assemble and Chill

Top the cooled brownies with the macerated strawberries and a drizzle of their juices. Chill in the fridge for at least an hour before slicing for clean, beautiful squares.

How to Serve and Store Strawberry Shortcake Brownies

These brownies are best served chilled, which helps all the layers hold their shape. Slice into clean squares with a sharp knife and serve as-is or with a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. This recipe makes about 9 to 12 servings, depending on how generously you slice them.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The strawberries may release some juice over time, but the flavor only improves. For longer storage, the base and cheesecake can be frozen without the strawberry topping.

What to Serve With Strawberry Shortcake Brownies?

Hot or Iced Coffee

The richness of the blondie and cheesecake pairs perfectly with a strong cup of coffee.

Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

Add a scoop of creamy ice cream on the side for a more decadent dessert plate.

Lemonade or Citrus Iced Tea

For a summer treat, sip something citrusy to contrast the sweet and creamy dessert.

Sparkling Rosé or Moscato

If serving for a brunch or celebration, this dessert complements light, fruity wines.

Whipped Cream

Though they already have cheesecake, a cloud of whipped cream adds that shortcake-style finish.

Mint Garnish

Fresh mint leaves brighten up the flavors and give it a beautiful color contrast.

Fruit Salad

Serve alongside more fresh fruit for a colorful and refreshing dessert board.

Want More Dessert Bar Ideas?

If you can’t get enough of layered, fruity, or indulgent bar desserts, try some of these next:

• Fried Strawberry Cheesecake Sandwiches for a crispy, warm twist on fruity cheesecake.
• Dr. Pepper Brownies if you’re looking for bold chocolate flavor with a surprising twist.
• No-Bake Banana Pudding Cheesecake that’s creamy and effortless.
• Hot Fudge Brownie Bread for chocoholics who crave gooey textures.
• Peanut Butter Cornflake Cookies for a no-bake crunch that hits the sweet-salty spot.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you layer extra strawberries? Try white chocolate in the base? I’d love to hear how you made it your own.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

Conclusion

Strawberry shortcake brownies are the perfect mix of comforting and classy. From the buttery blondie base to the creamy cheesecake and juicy strawberries on top, they deliver a little magic in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a party, family night, or just because strawberries called your name at the market, this is a recipe that never fails to impress.

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