If you love the rich, fudgy satisfaction of brownies paired with the sweet, juicy burst of fresh strawberries, you are absolutely going to adore this Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies Recipe. It brings together the best of both worlds: decadent chocolate brownies baked to perfection and topped with strawberries dipped in luscious melted chocolate. This treat is not just delicious but also irresistibly charming, making it a perfect dessert for gatherings, celebrations, or simply an indulgent treat to brighten your day. The combination of textures and flavors will keep you reaching for more, and once you try this recipe, it is bound to become a cherished favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies Recipe shines because of its straightforward ingredients list. Each component plays a vital role in building the delicious layers of flavor and texture, from the rich and fudgy brownies to the silky chocolate coating on the strawberries. Gather these simple yet essential ingredients and get ready to bake something truly special.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted): Provides richness and a tender crumb while enhancing the chocolate flavor.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Adds sweetness and helps create a moist, chewy texture.
- Large eggs (2): Bind the ingredients and contribute to the structure and fluffiness of the brownies.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor with warm, aromatic notes.
- All-purpose flour (1/2 cup): Gives the brownies just enough structure to hold their fudgy texture.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (1/4 cup): Delivers deep chocolate flavor and a beautiful color.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and intensifies the chocolate taste.
- Baking powder (1/4 teaspoon): Provides a subtle lift for a tender crumb.
- Semisweet chocolate chips (1/2 cup): Melts slightly into the batter for pockets of gooey chocolate.
- Fresh strawberries (6-8, hulled and sliced): Offer a juicy freshness that pairs perfectly with rich chocolate.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Creates a smooth ganache for coating the strawberries.
- Chopped semisweet chocolate (4 ounces): Melts into a silky chocolate sauce that covers the strawberries beautifully.
How to Make Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Gather Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing or lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Having everything prepped sets you up for a smooth baking process and ensures the brownies come out perfectly every time.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture looks smooth and shiny. This helps create a glossy batter and ensures the sugar dissolves well. Then, add the eggs along with the vanilla extract and mix until completely combined for a rich, silky texture.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Mixing these dry ingredients separately allows for even distribution so every bite of your brownies delivers the perfect balance of chocolate and texture.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, carefully folding until just combined. Be gentle to avoid overmixing, which can make brownies tough. Once the batter is smooth, fold in the semisweet chocolate chips for those irresistible melty chocolate pockets.
Step 5: Bake the Brownies
Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it out evenly. Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know they are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs clinging to it—not wet batter! This ensures fudgy brownies with just the right amount of gooeyness.
Step 6: Cool Completely
Allow the brownies to cool fully in the pan. Cooling is crucial because it helps the brownies set and makes slicing neater and easier. Plus, you’ll avoid melting your beautiful chocolate-covered strawberries when topping later.
Step 7: Prepare the Chocolate-Covered Strawberries
While the brownies cool, gently heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped semisweet chocolate until the mixture is silky and smooth. Dip each hulled strawberry slice into this luscious chocolate sauce and place them on a parchment-lined plate to let the coating set. This extra step transforms fresh strawberries into an elegant and flavorful topping.
Step 8: Assemble and Serve
Once your brownies are cooled, cut them into 12 equal squares. Top each brownie square with a chocolate-covered strawberry slice, adding a fresh and decadent finish that will wow your guests or family members with each bite.
How to Serve Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
For a stunning presentation, sprinkle a light dusting of powdered sugar or cocoa powder over your brownies before adding the strawberry topping. You could also add chopped nuts or a drizzle of white chocolate for contrast. Fresh mint leaves alongside the brownie squares can add a refreshing aroma and pop of color.
Side Dishes
These brownies shine on their own but pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For an adult twist, serve them alongside a glass of dessert wine or a rich espresso to complement the deep chocolate flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering smaller brownie squares with chocolate-covered strawberries between them on a decorative platter for a tiered dessert display. Another fun idea is to serve mini brownie bites topped with single strawberry slices on toothpicks at parties for easy handheld indulgence. Presentation elevates this homey treat into a show-stopping dessert!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep your Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies Recipe fresh by storing leftovers in an airtight container. Keep them in the refrigerator to maintain the integrity of the chocolate coating and the freshness of the strawberries. They will stay delicious for up to 3 days, perfect for savoring the next day’s treat.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy brownies at your leisure, these freeze well. Wrap individual brownie squares tightly with plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator for best texture and taste.
Reheating
To reheat, bring out the brownies to room temperature or warm them gently in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. Avoid overheating to keep the chocolate-covered strawberries intact and the brownie moist and fudgy. A quick warm-up will revive their decadent flavor without sacrificing texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for the chocolate-covered part?
It’s best to use fresh strawberries for this recipe because frozen strawberries release extra moisture when thawed, which can cause the chocolate coating to seize or become messy. Fresh strawberries hold their shape and stay crisp when dipped.
What type of chocolate works best for dipping strawberries?
Semisweet chocolate is ideal because it balances sweetness and bitterness, complementing both the strawberries and the rich brownies. You can also experiment with dark or milk chocolate, depending on your preference.
Can I make these brownies vegan or dairy-free?
You can substitute dairy and eggs with vegan alternatives like coconut oil instead of butter, flax eggs for binding, and plant-based cream for the ganache. Just make sure your chocolate is dairy-free to maintain the chocolate-covered strawberry effect.
How do I know when the brownies are perfectly baked?
Insert a toothpick in the center after about 20 minutes; it should come out with moist crumbs attached, not wet batter. This means your brownies will be fudgy and soft without being undercooked.
Can I prepare the chocolate-covered strawberries in advance?
Yes, you can prepare them a few hours ahead and keep refrigerated. Cover them loosely to avoid condensation. Just place them on the brownies right before serving so they look fresh and stay firm.
Final Thoughts
I hope this Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies Recipe inspires you to bake something truly delightful and impressive. It’s a wonderful way to combine two classic favorites into one irresistible dessert. Whether you are treating yourself, your family, or guests, these brownies are guaranteed to bring smiles and satisfy every chocolate and berry craving. So, grab those ingredients, get in the kitchen, and enjoy this deliciously fun baking adventure!
Print
Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies combine rich, fudgy chocolate brownies with luscious chocolate-covered fresh strawberry slices, creating a decadent treat perfect for dessert or special occasions.
Ingredients
Brownie Batter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Chocolate-Covered Strawberries
- 6–8 fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 4 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the brownies later.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and glossy, creating a cohesive base for your batter.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate the eggs and vanilla extract into the wet mixture, mixing thoroughly until fully combined to ensure an even texture.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder for an even distribution of leavening and flavor.
- Mix Batter: Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined, taking care not to overmix which can toughen the brownies.
- Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the semisweet chocolate chips to add pockets of melted chocolate throughout the brownies.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly, then bake for 20-25 minutes. Test doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs attached.
- Cool Brownies: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan to set up properly before slicing and decorating.
- Prepare Chocolate Coating: While the brownies cool, heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer, then remove from heat.
- Melt Chocolate: Stir the chopped semisweet chocolate into the hot cream until the mixture is smooth and glossy, forming a rich ganache.
- Dip Strawberries: Dip each strawberry slice into the melted chocolate ganache, then place them on a parchment-lined plate to cool and set.
- Assemble and Serve: Once brownies are fully cooled, cut them into squares and top each piece with a chocolate-covered strawberry slice. Serve and enjoy this delightful dessert.
Notes
- Make sure not to overbake the brownies; they should be moist with a slightly fudgy center.
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor and texture.
- If the chocolate ganache thickens too much before dipping the strawberries, gently reheat it over a double boiler.
- You can substitute semisweet chocolate chips and chopped chocolate with dark or milk chocolate depending on preference.
- Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
