Brownie & Fruit Kebabs
Looking for a dessert that’s as fun as a 4th of July parade and super easy to whip up? These Brownie & Fruit Kebabs are the perfect treat! With fudgy brownie cubes, juicy strawberries, sweet blueberries, fluffy marshmallows, and an optional drizzle of hot fudge, they’re a no-bake delight that screams red, white, and blue. Perfect for Independence Day, summer picnics, or any gathering, they’re so simple, kids can help thread them. Ready to create these colorful, skewered sweets? Let’s get threading!
Overview: Why These Kebabs Shine
What makes Brownie & Fruit Kebabs so special? They’re a no-cook, portable dessert with a mix of rich, fruity, and fluffy textures, plus a patriotic color scheme. Here’s why you’ll love them:
- Time Requirement: About 15-20 minutes of prep (assuming brownies are pre-made), plus optional chilling.
- Difficulty Level: Super easy! No baking required for assembly, great for beginners or kids.
- Why It’s Awesome: They’re healthier with fresh fruit, look festive, and are perfect for sharing.
These kebabs are ideal for parties, barbecues, or a fun family dessert. Let’s check out the ingredients!
Essential Ingredients
A batch of Brownie & Fruit Kebabs needs simple ingredients for about 10-12 skewers (depending on size). Here’s what you’ll need:
- Brownies:
- 9×13-inch pan of brownies, chilled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- Why it matters: Brownies add a rich, chocolatey base that pairs perfectly with fruit.
- Substitutions: Use store-bought brownies, blondies, or pound cake cubes. Gluten-free brownies work for dietary needs.
- Fruit:
- 1 pint blueberries, washed
- 1 pint strawberries, washed and hulled
- Why it matters: Blueberries and strawberries create the blue and red patriotic colors, plus juicy flavor.
- Substitutions: Use raspberries or cherries for red; blackberries for blue. Cut larger fruits like watermelon into cubes for a twist.
- Marshmallows:
- Large marshmallows
- Why it matters: Marshmallows add a fluffy, white element for the flag-inspired look and sweet chewiness.
- Substitutions: Use mini marshmallows (thread multiple), white chocolate-covered pretzels, or cubes of angel food cake.
- Optional Drizzle:
- Hot fudge sauce, for drizzling
- Why it matters: Adds a decadent, chocolatey finish for extra indulgence.
- Substitutions: Use caramel sauce, melted white chocolate, or skip for a lighter treat.
- Equipment:
- Bamboo or wooden skewers
- Why it matters: Skewers make the dessert portable and fun to eat.
- Substitutions: Use metal skewers or plastic picks for kids’ safety.
Tip: Chill brownies for at least 2 hours for clean cutting. Use fresh, firm fruit for easy skewering, and pat dry to prevent slipping. Choose 8-inch skewers for manageable portions.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s make these Brownie & Fruit Kebabs with these easy steps. Follow along with tips to make them perfect!
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
- If not pre-made, bake a 9×13-inch pan of brownies according to your favorite recipe or box mix. Chill in the fridge for 2 hours.
- Cut chilled brownies into 1-inch cubes (about 24-30 cubes for 10-12 skewers).
- Wash 1 pint blueberries and 1 pint strawberries. Pat dry with paper towels.
- Hull strawberries by removing green tops with a small knife or huller.
- Tip: Use a sharp knife for clean brownie cuts. Dry fruit thoroughly to keep skewers neat. Prep extra cubes in case some break.
Step 2: Set Up the Skewers
- Lay out 10-12 bamboo or wooden skewers on a clean surface or tray.
- Gather brownie cubes, blueberries, strawberries, large marshmallows, and a small bowl of hot fudge sauce (if using).
- Tip: Soak wooden skewers in water for 10 minutes to prevent splintering, especially if prepping ahead. Line a tray with parchment for easy cleanup.
Step 3: Thread the Kebabs
- Alternate threading ingredients onto each skewer in a pattern, such as: brownie cube, blueberry, strawberry, marshmallow, brownie cube, blueberry, strawberry.
- Repeat the pattern until the skewer is full, leaving about 1 inch at each end for easy handling.
- Aim for 5-7 pieces per skewer, adjusting based on size.
- Tip: Push ingredients gently to avoid squishing brownies or fruit. Mix up the order for variety, but keep red, white, and blue visible for a patriotic look.
Step 4: Add Optional Drizzle
- If using, warm hot fudge sauce in the microwave for 10-15 seconds until pourable.
- Drizzle lightly over the skewers using a spoon or piping bag for a decorative touch.
- Tip: Drizzle just before serving to avoid sogginess. Place skewers on a parchment-lined tray to catch drips.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
- Arrange kebabs on a platter and refrigerate for 15-30 minutes to firm up, or serve immediately.
- Serve chilled for a refreshing treat, perfect for warm summer days.
- Tip: Display kebabs in a star pattern or upright in a foam block for a festive 4th of July presentation.
Assembly: Building Your Kebabs
Creating Brownie & Fruit Kebabs is like crafting edible, patriotic wands! Here’s how to make them look amazing:
- Brownie Base: Start with fudgy brownie cubes for a rich, chocolatey bite.
- Red and Blue Fruit: Add strawberries and blueberries for vibrant red and blue pops.
- White Marshmallows: Thread marshmallows for a fluffy, white contrast.
- Hot Fudge Finish: Drizzle with fudge for a decadent touch (optional).
- Presentation Tip: Arrange kebabs on a white or blue platter with extra berries scattered around. Add small American flag picks or star sprinkles for a 4th of July vibe!
Tip: Thread ingredients tightly but gently to keep them secure. Alternate colors to showcase the red, white, and blue theme.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Want to enjoy your Brownie & Fruit Kebabs later? Here’s how to keep them fresh:
- Storing Leftovers:
- Cover kebabs with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. Fruit may release juices, softening brownies.
- Store extra ingredients separately: brownies and marshmallows at room temperature, fruit in the fridge.
- Note: Avoid freezing, as fruit becomes mushy when thawed.
- Make-Ahead Tips:
- Bake and cut brownies up to 2 days ahead; store in an airtight container at room temperature or chill.
- Wash and hull fruit a day ahead and store in the fridge in sealed containers, keeping dry.
- Assemble kebabs up to 4 hours before serving and refrigerate. Add fudge drizzle just before serving to maintain texture.
- Tip: For parties, prep ingredients in advance and let guests thread their own kebabs for a fun activity.
These kebabs are perfect for quick prep or planning ahead for stress-free celebrations!
Recipe Variations
Brownie & Fruit Kebabs are super fun to customize! Try these ideas:
- Tropical Twist: Use pineapple cubes for white, mango for red, and kiwi for a green twist (less patriotic but summery).
- Chocolate Overload: Dip brownie cubes in melted chocolate before skewering, or use chocolate marshmallows.
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free brownies and skip fudge, relying on fruit and vegan marshmallows.
- Berry Mix: Add raspberries or blackberries for more red and blue variety.
- Mini Kebabs: Use shorter skewers with smaller pieces for bite-sized portions, perfect for kids.
Get creative—every version is a skewered delight!
Conclusion
These Brownie & Fruit Kebabs are the ultimate no-cook dessert for patriotic celebrations! With their fudgy brownies, juicy strawberries and blueberries, fluffy marshmallows, and optional hot fudge drizzle, they’re perfect for 4th of July, summer picnics, or any occasion. They’re a healthier treat with fresh fruit, super quick to prep, and so fun to customize. Grab your skewers, get the kids to help thread, and create these red, white, and blue treats. Share your creations in the comments—I’d love to see your patriotic kebabs!
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Brownie {& Fruit} Kebabs
Description
Looking for a dessert that’s as fun as a 4th of July parade and super easy to whip up? These Brownie & Fruit Kebabs are the perfect treat! With fudgy brownie cubes, juicy strawberries, sweet blueberries, fluffy marshmallows, and an optional drizzle of hot fudge, they’re a no-bake delight that screams red, white, and blue.
Ingredients
A batch of Brownie & Fruit Kebabs needs simple ingredients for about 10-12 skewers (depending on size). Here’s what you’ll need:
-
Brownies:
-
9×13-inch pan of brownies, chilled and cut into 1-inch cubes
-
Why it matters: Brownies add a rich, chocolatey base that pairs perfectly with fruit.
-
Substitutions: Use store-bought brownies, blondies, or pound cake cubes. Gluten-free brownies work for dietary needs.
-
-
Fruit:
-
1 pint blueberries, washed
-
1 pint strawberries, washed and hulled
-
Why it matters: Blueberries and strawberries create the blue and red patriotic colors, plus juicy flavor.
-
Substitutions: Use raspberries or cherries for red; blackberries for blue. Cut larger fruits like watermelon into cubes for a twist.
-
-
Marshmallows:
-
Large marshmallows
-
Why it matters: Marshmallows add a fluffy, white element for the flag-inspired look and sweet chewiness.
-
Substitutions: Use mini marshmallows (thread multiple), white chocolate-covered pretzels, or cubes of angel food cake.
-
-
Optional Drizzle:
-
Hot fudge sauce, for drizzling
-
Why it matters: Adds a decadent, chocolatey finish for extra indulgence.
-
Substitutions: Use caramel sauce, melted white chocolate, or skip for a lighter treat.
-
-
Equipment:
-
Bamboo or wooden skewers
-
Why it matters: Skewers make the dessert portable and fun to eat.
-
Substitutions: Use metal skewers or plastic picks for kids’ safety.
-
Tip: Chill brownies for at least 2 hours for clean cutting. Use fresh, firm fruit for easy skewering, and pat dry to prevent slipping. Choose 8-inch skewers for manageable portions.
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
-
If not pre-made, bake a 9×13-inch pan of brownies according to your favorite recipe or box mix. Chill in the fridge for 2 hours.
-
Cut chilled brownies into 1-inch cubes (about 24-30 cubes for 10-12 skewers).
-
Wash 1 pint blueberries and 1 pint strawberries. Pat dry with paper towels.
-
Hull strawberries by removing green tops with a small knife or huller.
-
Tip: Use a sharp knife for clean brownie cuts. Dry fruit thoroughly to keep skewers neat. Prep extra cubes in case some break.
-
Step 2: Set Up the Skewers
-
Lay out 10-12 bamboo or wooden skewers on a clean surface or tray.
-
Gather brownie cubes, blueberries, strawberries, large marshmallows, and a small bowl of hot fudge sauce (if using).
-
Tip: Soak wooden skewers in water for 10 minutes to prevent splintering, especially if prepping ahead. Line a tray with parchment for easy cleanup.
-
Step 3: Thread the Kebabs
-
Alternate threading ingredients onto each skewer in a pattern, such as: brownie cube, blueberry, strawberry, marshmallow, brownie cube, blueberry, strawberry.
-
Repeat the pattern until the skewer is full, leaving about 1 inch at each end for easy handling.
-
Aim for 5-7 pieces per skewer, adjusting based on size.
-
Tip: Push ingredients gently to avoid squishing brownies or fruit. Mix up the order for variety, but keep red, white, and blue visible for a patriotic look.
-
Step 4: Add Optional Drizzle
-
If using, warm hot fudge sauce in the microwave for 10-15 seconds until pourable.
-
Drizzle lightly over the skewers using a spoon or piping bag for a decorative touch.
-
Tip: Drizzle just before serving to avoid sogginess. Place skewers on a parchment-lined tray to catch drips.
-
Step 5: Chill and Serve
-
Arrange kebabs on a platter and refrigerate for 15-30 minutes to firm up, or serve immediately.
-
Serve chilled for a refreshing treat, perfect for warm summer days.
-
Tip: Display kebabs in a star pattern or upright in a foam block for a festive 4th of July presentation.
-
FAQs
Q: Can I use store-bought brownies?
- A: Yes! Store-bought brownies save time and work great. Chill them for easier cutting and skewering.
Q: What are the health benefits of these kebabs?
- A: Strawberries and blueberries are rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants. Use less fudge or smaller brownie portions for a lighter treat. Marshmallows add fun but keep portions balanced.
Q: How do I keep brownies from crumbling on skewers?
- A: Chill brownies thoroughly before cutting and skewer gently. Use fudgy, not cakey, brownies for sturdiness.
Q: Can kids help make this recipe?
- A: Totally! Kids can thread fruit, marshmallows, and brownies onto skewers. Supervise cutting brownies or hulling strawberries for safety.
Q: Can I use frozen fruit?
- A: Fresh fruit is best for texture and skewering. Frozen fruit (thawed and drained) may be too soft and watery.
Q: What if I don’t have skewers?
- A: Layer ingredients in a parfait glass or small cups for a deconstructed version, or use toothpicks for mini portions.