Scrumptious Strawberry Brownie Torte

Your Summer Dessert Hack

The recipe was initially found at Eagle Brand

Today, I am sharing one of my favorite go-to desserts: the Strawberry Brownie Torte. This layered heavenly dessert perfectly combines rich chocolate, creamy vanilla, and fresh, juicy strawberries.

Ingredients:

• 1 (18.4 oz.) package of fudge brownie mix – Perfect for a deep, chocolatey base.
• 2/3 cup vegetable oil – For a moist and tender brownie texture.
• 3/4 cup water – Mix the brownie batter smoothly.
• 3 large eggs – To give the brownie structure and richness.
• 1 (14 oz.) can Eagle Brand® Sweetened Condensed Milk – This adds a luscious, creamy sweetness.
• 1 (4-serving size) package of instant vanilla flavor pudding mix—This will create a light, fluffy layer that contrasts beautifully with the dense brownie.
• 1 (4 oz.) container of frozen whipped topping, thawed—This adds a cloud-like airiness to the dessert.
• One quart of fresh strawberries, cleaned, hulled, and halved, are the star of the show and provide a burst of freshness.
• Chocolate syrup – For drizzling over the top, adding a touch of elegance and extra chocolatey goodness. (I prefer melting some chocolate and drizzling this instead. It provides a cleaner look as the chocolate hardens.)

Prep Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare: Start by heating your oven to 350°F. Take two 9-inch round layer cake pans and give them a good spray with no-stick cooking spray. Line the bottoms with wax paper, letting the edges climb up the sides, then spray the wax paper. This ensures your brownie layers come out perfectly without sticking.
2. Mix the Brownies: Follow the package directions for cake-like brownies, using the oil, water, and eggs. This will make your brownies light enough to layer beautifully but still rich and fudgy. Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pans. (I prefer to make mine the original fudgy style for more richness)
3. Bake: Slide the pans into the oven for about 20 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the top springs back to a gentle touch. Let them cool completely; this is crucial for the layering to go smoothly.
4. Create the Creamy Layer: While your brownies are cooling, mix the sweetened condensed milk and water in a large bowl. Beat in the vanilla pudding mix, then pop the bowl in the fridge for about 5 minutes. Once chilled, gently fold in the thawed whipped topping incorporating the ingredients. (I have been known to wipe the bowl clean with a strawberry or two and pop them right in my mouth. After all a good chef always tastes their cooking.)

Assembling Instructions

1. Layer Your Delight: Place one brownie layer on a serving plate. Spoon half of the creamy pudding mixture over the brownie base, spreading it to the edges. Arrange half of your fresh strawberry halves on top. Place the second brownie layer on top of this, and repeat with the remaining pudding mixture and strawberries. * (I am a bit lazy and make mine in a glass 11 x 7 cake pan. No need to layer, and it makes serving much easier. You still get a great look with the glass dish.)
2. Final Flourish: Drizzle the chocolate syrup over the top in a delightful zigzag pattern. This not only adds an extra layer of chocolate indulgence but also makes your dessert look like a masterpiece. (This is where I use melting chocolate or simply put some chips in the microwave on 50% power to melt.)

Strawberry Brownie Torte: Serve and Enjoy

Chill your Strawberry Brownie Torte in the fridge for at least an hour before serving. This helps the layers meld together, making it easier to cut into neat, delicious slices. Serve this at any summer gathering, and watch it disappear! It’s perfect for picnics, parties, or as a luxurious treat after a barbecue dinner. The combination of moist brownie, creamy vanilla pudding, fluffy whipped topping, and fresh strawberries is irresistible.

This recipe has become a tradition each year when fresh strawberries are in season. I get more requests for it each year. You will be surprised how effortless and decadent it is.

This recipe won’t disappoint you, except when the last piece is gone.

For more delicious recipes, visit Compass Ohio Cuisine.