Indulge in the Best Vegan Strawberry Brownies: Fudgy, Gluten-Free, and Bursting with Fresh Flavor

Discover the ultimate vegan and gluten-free strawberry brownies, marrying the rich decadence of dark chocolate with the sweet tartness of fresh strawberries. This recipe promises a fudgy texture and an unforgettable flavor, perfect for any occasion!

Life is full of little surprises, isn’t it? Sometimes, these surprises come in the form of silly online quizzes, like those “10 Questions for Your Partner” challenges that pop up on social media feeds. My partner, M, and I often find ourselves swiping through these, not just for a laugh, but as a welcome break from endless scrolling and a fun way to interact in an otherwise passive online world. Who doesn’t want to know if their significant other would choose a golden retriever or a husky, or, more importantly for a food blogger like me, if they prefer cookies or brownies for dessert?

These, my friends, are the truly pressing questions that demand an answer. It was during one of these food-themed quizzes that M dropped a bombshell: he prefers brownies over cookies. “WHAT?!” I shrieked, genuinely flabbergasted. I mean, my entire existence revolves around desserts, and this was news to me! He vehemently argued, “Yes, over cookies, I would!”

Now, this revelation might not mean much coming from my dessert-averse boyfriend, who once ate raw rhubarb and declared it “sweet enough.” Truth be told, I don’t think I’d witnessed M eat a single brownie in the four years we’ve been together. But, apparently, he’s a brownie guy. And so, this incredibly fudgy, fruit-studded brownie recipe is dedicated to the boy I live with, who, to be fair, still hasn’t touched the pan since I baked them. And that’s perfectly okay. Because these Vegan Strawberry Brownies are simply too good to share.

These particular brownies are a labor of love, crafted to be entirely vegan and gluten-free, yet utterly decadent. They are infused with the vibrant freshness of sweet strawberries and generously studded with rich, dark chocolate chips. Essentially, they capture the essence of a chocolate-covered strawberry, but in a gloriously fudgy brownie form. Imagine sinking your teeth into a rich, chocolatey square, only to be met with a burst of sweet, juicy strawberry. It’s a flavor combination that truly sings!

Why These Vegan Strawberry Brownies Are a Must-Try

Beyond being a delightful dessert, these Vegan Strawberry Brownies offer a unique combination of qualities that make them stand out. They’re a celebration of flavor, texture, and mindful eating. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with them:

• Fudgy and Rich: These brownies boast that coveted dense, moist, and intensely chocolatey texture that every brownie lover dreams of. No dry, cakey brownies here!
• Sweet & Tangy Harmony: The addition of fresh strawberries creates a beautiful contrast to the deep, slightly bitter notes of dark chocolate. It’s a match made in dessert heaven, offering a refreshing burst of fruitiness with every bite.
• Dietary Inclusive: Made with plant-based ingredients and almond flour, these brownies are naturally vegan, gluten-free, and even refined-sugar-free. This means more people can enjoy them, making them perfect for sharing at gatherings where various dietary needs might be present.
• Easy to Make: Despite their gourmet taste, the recipe is surprisingly simple, utilizing common pantry staples and straightforward steps. Even novice bakers can achieve impressive results.
• Visually Stunning: The vibrant red strawberries and dark chocolate chips create a visually appealing dessert, making them ideal for special occasions like Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, or any festive gathering.

What You Need to Make These Decadent Vegan Strawberry Brownies

Creating these incredible Vegan Strawberry Brownies is surprisingly easy, especially since the ingredient list focuses on simple, wholesome items you might already have in your pantry. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that perfect fudgy texture and rich flavor. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:

• Ground Flaxseed: This is your secret weapon for a vegan binder! When combined with water, ground flaxseed creates a “flax egg,” mimicking the binding properties of a chicken egg, ensuring your brownies hold together beautifully and remain moist.
• Unrefined Coconut Sugar: Moving away from refined sugars, coconut sugar provides a lovely caramel-like sweetness with a lower glycemic index. It contributes to the depth of flavor without being overly sweet.
• Neutral Nut or Seed Butter: This ingredient adds healthy fats and richness, contributing to the fudgy texture. Options like almond butter, cashew butter, or even sunflower seed butter (for a nut-free alternative) work wonderfully, just ensure it’s a neutral, creamy variety.
• Almond Flour: The star of our gluten-free base! Almond flour provides a fine, tender crumb that is characteristic of good brownies. It’s naturally low in carbs and high in protein, making these brownies a bit more wholesome.
• Raw Cacao Powder: For an intense, rich chocolate flavor, raw cacao powder is essential. It’s less processed than cocoa powder, retaining more antioxidants and offering a deeper, more complex chocolate profile.
• Endangered Species 60% Dark Chocolate Baking Chips: These semi-sweet chips are not just for added chocolatey goodness; they melt beautifully and provide a lovely texture. Plus, choosing a brand like Endangered Species adds an ethical dimension, as they contribute to wildlife conservation. You’ll need about 1/3 cup for the batter, plus more for sprinkling on top.
• Chopped Strawberries: These are folded directly into the batter, ensuring a burst of strawberry flavor in every bite. They add moisture and a delightful chewiness.
• Sliced Strawberries: Reserved for the top, these not only provide a beautiful aesthetic but also offer a concentrated fresh fruit experience on the surface of each brownie.

That’s it! With these simple yet powerful ingredients, you’re well on your way to baking a batch of truly extraordinary vegan strawberry brownies.

How to Make These Irresistible Vegan Strawberry Brownies

Baking these vegan strawberry brownies is a straightforward process, designed for ease and delicious results. Follow these steps carefully to ensure a perfect batch every time.

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8 or 9-inch square baking dish by lining it with parchment paper. This is a crucial step for easy removal and clean slices! Alternatively, you can lightly grease the dish with coconut oil if you don’t have parchment paper.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground flaxseed and filtered water. Whisk these together thoroughly. Then, set the mixture aside for 5-10 minutes. This allows the flaxseed to absorb the water and create a thick, gel-like “flax egg,” which acts as the binder for your vegan brownies.

Next, into the gelled flaxseed mixture, add the unrefined coconut sugar, unsweetened almond milk, and your chosen neutral nut or seed butter. Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This ensures an even distribution of sweetness and richness throughout the batter.

Now, sift in the almond flour and raw cacao powder. Sifting is important here to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth, uniform batter. Mix until all the dry ingredients are just combined with the wet ingredients. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tougher brownie texture.

Gently fold in the 1/3 cup of dark chocolate chips and the chopped strawberries. Folding helps distribute these delicious additions without deflating the batter.

Pour the brownie batter into your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to smooth the top into a nice, even layer. This promotes even baking and a beautiful presentation.

Adding the Finishing Touches: More Strawberries & Chocolate

Once your batter is smoothed into the pan, it’s time for the final aesthetic and flavor boosters. Arrange the remaining sliced strawberries in even rows on top of the brownie surface. You can create a simple grid pattern, or get creative with your arrangement. Gently press them into the batter with your fingers to ensure they stay in place during baking.

I typically like to place mine in 3-4 neat rows across the pan, but feel free to create any shape or pattern you desire. Just be sure not to place them *too* close together, avoiding any significant overlapping. Overlapping strawberries can release too much moisture in one spot and prevent the brownie batter from baking evenly underneath, leading to a potentially soggy center.

Finally, sprinkle the top with some additional dark chocolate chips. This not only enhances the chocolate flavor but also adds a beautiful visual appeal, making your brownies look professionally baked and utterly irresistible. Because, why not have a little extra chocolate?

Bake the brownies for 25-30 minutes. Once the baking time is complete, remove them from the oven to cool.

The Golden Rule: Do Not Over Bake!

This is arguably the most critical piece of advice when it comes to achieving perfectly fudgy brownies, especially with this vegan and gluten-free recipe. Pay close attention to this step!

When you remove the brownies from the oven, they will likely appear slightly underdone in the center. The edges should be set, but the middle might still seem a bit soft and jiggly. This is exactly what you want! The residual heat in the pan will continue to cook the brownies as they cool, a process known as “carryover cooking.”

I cannot stress this enough: Do not overcook them. If you bake them until they look fully set and firm in the center, you will end up with dry, cake-like brownies, losing that coveted fudgy texture. The moment a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter), they are ready. A clean toothpick means overbaked!

Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan for at least 30 minutes, or even longer, before attempting to slice them. Cooling is essential not just for texture but also for structural integrity. As they cool, the brownies firm up and become easier to cut into neat squares. Rushing this step will result in crumbly, messy brownies.

Once they’re fully cooled, use a sharp knife to slice the brownies into even squares. Clean your knife between cuts for the cleanest possible edges. Then, enjoy your perfectly fudgy, fruit-studded treats!

Endangered Species Dark Chocolate Baking Chips: A Conscious Choice

In this recipe, I specifically recommend using Endangered Species 60% Dark Chocolate Baking Chips. The quality of chocolate can truly elevate a brownie, and these semi-sweet chips are an excellent choice. Their 60% cacao content strikes the perfect balance between sweetness and a delightful bitter edge, which beautifully complements the natural sweetness and slight tartness of fresh strawberries. This creates that authentic, full chocolate-covered strawberry experience in every bite.

Beyond their exceptional flavor and melting qualities, I wholeheartedly choose Endangered Species chocolate for their commitment to a greater cause. This brand dedicates 10% of its net profits to supporting wildlife conservation efforts, the environment, and our planet. Each product highlights a specific endangered animal, bringing awareness to its plight. For these baking chips, it’s the resilient Octopus – a fascinating creature often overlooked.

By opting for a brand like Endangered Species, you’re not just making a delicious dessert; you’re also contributing to a more sustainable and compassionate world. It’s a small choice that makes a big impact, adding another layer of goodness to your baking.

How to Serve Your Vegan Strawberry Brownies

These Vegan Strawberry Brownies are a versatile treat, perfect for enjoying any time of year. However, they truly shine during peak strawberry season when the berries are at their freshest and most flavorful. I love to bake a pan and savor squares for dessert after dinner, or as a delightful afternoon pick-me-up with a cup of tea.

For the best results, this recipe absolutely works best with fresh berries. Frozen strawberries, while convenient, tend to release too much water during baking, which can make the brownie batter a bit too soggy and compromise the fudgy texture we’re aiming for. Stick with fresh for that vibrant flavor and perfect consistency.

These brownies are more than just a simple dessert; their elegant combination of flavors and beautiful presentation make them ideal for a variety of occasions. I think they’d be perfect for a romantic Valentine’s Day treat, a thoughtful Mother’s Day surprise, a festive addition to birthday parties, a sophisticated offering at office potlucks, or simply anytime you find yourself craving the magical pairing of rich chocolate and sweet, juicy strawberries. Consider serving them with a dusting of powdered sugar, a dollop of vegan whipped cream, or even a scoop of dairy-free vanilla bean ice cream for an extra touch of indulgence.

Notes on Storage for Longevity and Freshness

To keep your delicious Vegan Strawberry Brownies fresh and fudgy, it’s important to store them correctly. Any leftover brownies should be placed in an airtight container and refrigerated. When stored this way, they will maintain their quality and flavor for up to one week. The coolness of the refrigerator also helps to firm them up slightly, enhancing their dense, chewy texture.

Beyond refrigeration, these brownies also freeze exceptionally well, making them perfect for meal prepping desserts or saving some for a rainy day. I highly recommend cutting the cooled brownies into individual squares before freezing. This allows you to easily grab a single portion whenever a craving strikes, without having to thaw the entire batch.

To freeze, arrange the individual squares in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour until firm. Then, transfer the frozen squares into separate freezer-safe bags or an airtight container, placing parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply take a square out and let it thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes, or warm it slightly in the microwave for a warm, gooey treat.

Enjoy your vegan strawberry brownies now and for weeks to come!

More Vegan Brownies to Explore

If you loved these Vegan Strawberry Brownies, you’re in for a treat! My kitchen is a hub for plant-based brownie creativity, offering a diverse collection of fudgy, delicious, and often gluten-free brownie recipes. Whether you’re craving classic chocolate, unique flavor combinations, or wholesome twists, there’s a brownie here for every palate. Expand your baking repertoire and discover your next favorite vegan dessert with these fantastic options:

• Vegan Cosmic Brownies

• Sweet Potato SunButter Brownies

• SunButter & Jelly Brownies

• Pumpkin Almond Butter Brownies

• Blueberry Mousse Brownies

• No-Sugar-Added Black Bean Brownies

• Cashew Butter Buckeye Brownies

• Super Fudgy Vegan Brownies

• Matcha Dusted Raw Brownies

• Avocado SunButter Swirl Brownies

• Black Sesame Butter Brownies

• 1-Bowl Butternut Brownies

• Flourless Vegan Brownies

I Want to Hear From You!

There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing your culinary creations! If you decide to make this Vegan Strawberry Brownie recipe, please let me know how it turns out. Your feedback is incredibly valuable and helps me continue to develop delicious, creative, and accessible recipes for everyone.

Be sure to leave a comment below with your thoughts, a star rating, and a review. Tell me what you loved, any adjustments you made, or simply how much you enjoyed these fudgy delights. Your input directly contributes to creating more “yums” in the future!

Don’t forget to give me a shout-out on Instagram and use the hashtag #floraandvino to share your beautiful brownie creations. I love seeing your photos and connecting with fellow food enthusiasts!

For more delicious inspiration and recipes like this one, be sure to check out my Pinterest page. It’s a treasure trove of plant-based goodness, perfect for planning your next baking adventure.

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XO Lauren

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This post is brought to you by Endangered Species Chocolate, but all words and eats are my own. Thanks for supporting the sponsors that keep me hungry!