If you have a soft spot for rich, fudgy brownies paired with the fresh, juicy brightness of strawberries, then you are going to fall head over heels for this Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies Recipe. It combines the deep chocolate intensity of homemade brownies with a luscious layer of ripe strawberries, all crowned by a silky chocolate ganache that sets everything off perfectly. This dessert feels both elegant and utterly comforting, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any gathering or a special treat for yourself.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the first step to nailing this delicious Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies Recipe. Each component is simple yet essential, from the cocoa powder that delivers deep chocolate notes to the fresh strawberries adding vibrant color and natural sweetness.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted): Provides richness and a beautiful tender crumb to the brownies.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the batter just right while helping with texture.
- Eggs (2 large, room temperature): Adds moisture and structure for that fudgy perfection.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor, bringing warmth and depth.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (1/3 cup): Gives the brownies their intense chocolate flavor.
- All-purpose flour (1/2 cup): Creates the base and balances the fudginess with a tender bite.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Amplifies the chocolate flavor and balances the sweetness.
- Baking powder (1/4 teaspoon): Helps the brownies rise just enough for a perfect texture.
- Fresh strawberries (1 1/2 cups, sliced): Brings a juicy, fruity contrast to the rich chocolate.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1 cup): Melts into a luscious ganache topping.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Creates a smooth, glossy chocolate ganache when combined with the chips.
How to Make Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Batter
First, preheat your oven to 350°F and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal later. In a medium bowl, whisk the melted butter and sugar together until silky smooth—that sweet start makes the brownies beautifully tender. Next, add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is perfectly combined. Then, gently fold in the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder just until everything comes together—overmixing here can make the brownies tough, so keep it light and loving.
Step 2: Bake to Fudgy Perfection
Pour your luscious brownie batter evenly into the prepared pan. Slide it into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs—this means fudgy and not overbaked, just the way brownies should be. Once baked, let the brownies cool completely in the pan; this is key so the toppings won’t melt or slide off.
Step 3: Add the Strawberries
Once your brownies have cooled, artfully arrange the sliced strawberries evenly across the top. The freshness of the strawberries will brighten each bite and create a stunning presentation that feels special and inviting.
Step 4: Make the Chocolate Ganache
In a small saucepan, gently heat the heavy cream until it just begins to simmer — not boiling, as gentle heat is important here. Pour the hot cream over the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl and let it sit undisturbed for 2 minutes; this resting time allows the chocolate to melt completely. Then, stir until the ganache is smooth, silky, and glossy. Pour the ganache gently over the strawberries and spread it with care to cover them completely.
Step 5: Chill and Set
Transfer the assembled brownies to the refrigerator and chill for at least one hour. This step allows the ganache to set firmly and makes cutting the brownies into clean, beautiful squares much easier.
How to Serve Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate these brownies even further, consider sprinkling a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt on top of the ganache before chilling—this brightens the chocolate and adds a lovely contrast. Fresh mint leaves or a dusting of powdered sugar can also add delightful visual charm for special occasions.
Side Dishes
Serve these brownies alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a classic combo. A cup of rich coffee or a robust red wine pairs beautifully, complementing the decadent chocolate and fruity notes.
Creative Ways to Present
For an eye-catching dessert tray, cut the brownies into smaller bite-sized pieces and skewer each with a strawberry on top, drizzled with extra chocolate. Alternatively, layer these brownies in a clear glass trifle dish with whipped cream and strawberry slices repeating the pattern for a stunning no-bake dessert parfait.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once chilled, store your Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies Recipe leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator to keep the ganache firm and strawberries fresh. They will stay delicious for up to three days; beyond that, the strawberries may begin to release moisture and affect texture.
Freezing
If you want to prepare these brownies ahead of time, you can freeze them before adding the fresh strawberries and ganache. Wrap the baked brownies tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to two months. When ready, thaw in the fridge, then add fresh strawberries and ganache to enjoy the best flavor and texture.
Reheating
This dessert is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature because of the strawberry and ganache topping. If you prefer a slightly warm brownie, remove any ganache topping from the piece before warming briefly in the microwave, then reapply the ganache chilled or at room temperature.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?
It’s best to use fresh, ripe but firm strawberries for this recipe. Frozen strawberries release a lot of water when thawed, which can make the brownies soggy and interfere with the ganache setting properly.
Can I substitute the semi-sweet chocolate chips?
Yes! You can use dark chocolate or milk chocolate chips according to your taste preference. Just keep in mind that darker chocolate will result in a more intense ganache, while milk chocolate will be sweeter and creamier.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The original recipe uses all-purpose flour, so it is not gluten-free. However, you can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup for an excellent gluten-free version.
How thick should I slice the strawberries?
Slicing strawberries about 1/4 inch thick works perfectly. Thin enough to lay flat on the brownies but thick enough to provide satisfying fruit bites in every square.
Can I make the ganache ahead of time?
Absolutely! Ganache can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Before pouring over the strawberries, gently warm it until pourable, making sure to stir well for that flawless glossy finish.
Final Thoughts
This Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies Recipe is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that somehow capture both indulgence and freshness all at once. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just craving something special to brighten your day, these brownies will not disappoint. Don’t hesitate to try making this delightful treat your own by adding your personal touches, but be warned: once you taste that perfect bite, it might just become your go-to dessert forever.
Print
Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 9 brownies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in the rich and fudgy Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies, combining classic cocoa brownies topped with fresh strawberries and a luscious chocolate ganache. This irresistible dessert blends the perfect balance of sweet, fruity, and chocolatey flavors, ideal for any occasion or a special treat.
Ingredients
Brownies
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
Topping
- 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the brownies.
- Mix Brownie Batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, whisking until fully combined. Gently stir in the cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder just until incorporated to avoid overmixing.
- Bake Brownies: Pour the brownie batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely.
- Add Strawberries: Once the brownies have cooled, arrange the sliced fresh strawberries evenly over the surface, distributing them to cover the entire top.
- Prepare Chocolate Ganache: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream just until it begins to simmer. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips placed in a heatproof bowl. Let it sit for 2 minutes to melt the chocolate, then stir gently until the ganache is smooth and glossy.
- Top Brownies with Ganache: Pour the chocolate ganache over the strawberries on the brownies. Use a spatula to gently spread it to cover the fruit and the top evenly.
- Chill and Set: Refrigerate the assembled brownies for at least 1 hour to allow the ganache to set firmly. Once set, slice into 9 squares for serving.
Notes
- Use ripe but firm strawberries for best texture and appearance.
- For cleaner slices, wipe the knife between each cut to prevent sticking.
- Store brownies covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
