Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and lightly flour an 8x8 inch baking pan. Line with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, sugar, cocoa powder, and salt until well combined.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Gradually add the flour, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
- In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gently fold in the diced fresh strawberries. Don't overmix.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
- Drop spoonfuls of the strawberry shortcake swirl mixture over the brownie batter.
- Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the strawberry mixture into the brownie batter. Be careful not to over-swirl.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached.
- Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting.
- While the brownies are cooling, prepare the whipped cream (if using).
- In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream with an electric mixer until soft peaks form.
- Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
- Cut the cooled brownies into squares.
- Top with whipped cream and extra fresh strawberries, if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator to prevent the cream cheese swirl from spoiling. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months. For variations, fold in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips, add 1/4 cup of chopped nuts, use white chocolate chips in the strawberry swirl, or add 1/2 teaspoon of strawberry extract to the brownie batter.
