Name: Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and halved; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1/2 cup heavy cream

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If you’re craving a dessert that brings together the deep, fudgy richness of brownies with the fresh, juicy burst of strawberries, then these Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies are exactly what you need. Combining a dense chocolate base with vibrant fresh fruit and a luscious chocolate ganache topping, this treat manages to be both indulgent and refreshing at the same time. It’s the kind of dessert that feels like a special occasion, even if you’re just treating yourself on a Tuesday. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll quickly become your go-to for celebrations or cozy nights in.

Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients might seem simple, but each one plays a crucial role in creating that perfect balance of texture, flavor, and color in your Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies. From the richness of butter to the brightness of fresh strawberries, everything works together to make this dessert shine.

Unsalted butter (1 cup or 2 sticks): Provides a rich, creamy base that keeps the brownies fudgy and moist.
Granulated sugar (2 cups): Sweetens the brownies while ensuring a tender crumb.
Large eggs (4): Bind the ingredients and contribute to the chewy texture.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds depth of flavor and a warm, inviting aroma.
All-purpose flour (1 cup): Offers structure without making the brownies cakey.
Unsweetened cocoa powder (1 cup): Delivers a rich, chocolatey taste with a slightly bitter edge to balance sweetness.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Gives just enough lift to keep the brownies dense but not flat.
Fresh strawberries (1 pint): The star component that brightens every bite with juicy freshness.
Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1 cup): Melts into a silky ganache that wraps the strawberries in smooth chocolate.
Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Blended with chocolate to create a luscious ganache topping.

How to Make Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan and Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your brownies bake evenly from the start. Grab a 9×13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. This simple trick makes it super easy to lift the brownies out after they’re baked and cooled, so no risk of sticking or breaking your perfect batch.

Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter

In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter just until it’s silky and smooth. Stir in the sugar so it begins to dissolve and your brownies will achieve that classic chewy texture. Next, whisk in the eggs and vanilla extract until the mixture is nice and smooth. In a separate bowl, sift the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder together—this step keeps any clumps from ruining your batter’s consistency. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet bowl, gently folding until everything is just combined. Overmixing would make the brownies tough, so be light with your stirring!

Step 3: Bake the Brownies

Pour your batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly with a spatula. Bake for about 25 to 30 minutes. You’re aiming for a toothpick inserted in the center to come out with a few moist crumbs clinging to it—not completely clean, so your brownies remain fudgy. Once done, let the brownies cool completely right in the pan. Patience here is key, as warm brownies won’t hold the topping properly.

Step 4: Arrange the Fresh Strawberries

After the brownies are fully cooled, it’s time to bring in that fresh component. Take your hulled and halved strawberries and arrange them evenly across the surface. This step adds vibrant color and juicy texture that contrast beautifully with the dense chocolate base.

Step 5: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine your semi-sweet chocolate chips and heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring after each interval, until the chocolate melts completely and you achieve a silky, smooth ganache. This glossy topping is what makes these brownies scream decadence and adds that rich, shiny finish.

Step 6: Assemble and Chill

Gently pour the ganache over the strawberries, using a spatula to spread it evenly so every bite has luscious chocolate coating. Pop the whole pan into the refrigerator for at least one hour to allow the ganache to set firmly. Once chilled, lift your brownies out using the parchment paper edges, and cut into squares. Every piece will showcase the perfectly layered goodness of Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies that’s simply irresistible.

How to Serve Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies

Garnishes

To elevate your presentation, consider a light dusting of powdered sugar for a delicate snowy effect or a few thin chocolate shavings sprinkled atop the ganache. You could also add fresh mint leaves or edible rose petals for a garden-fresh touch. These touches make a lovely impact, especially if you’re serving guests and want to impress without much effort.

Side Dishes

Pair these brownies with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to add cool creaminess that balances the rich chocolate. Fresh fruit salad or a small cup of black coffee also complement the dessert nicely, giving you options depending on your mood or the occasion.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting the brownies into bite-sized squares and serving them on a platter with individual strawberry skewers for an elegant finger-food approach. For parties, arrange the brownies on a tiered dessert stand with decorative napkins, letting the chocolate ganache gleam under the lighting. This turns your Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies into a centerpiece worth celebrating.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keeping them chilled ensures the ganache stays firm and the strawberries maintain their fresh texture, so every bite remains as delightful as when first made.

Freezing

If you want to prepare these in advance or save some for later, freeze the brownies in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and foil. They’ll stay delicious for about 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge to preserve the freshness and ganache texture beautifully.

Reheating

While these brownies are best served chilled, if you prefer a slightly warm bite, let them come to room temperature first and then heat for just 10-15 seconds in the microwave. Be careful not to overheat, which could melt the ganache unevenly. This quick step softens the brownies without losing the charm of their layered flavors.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh for Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies?

It’s best to use fresh strawberries because they hold their shape and texture better. Frozen strawberries tend to release extra moisture when thawed, which can make the topping watery and affect the ganache’s consistency.

What can I substitute for heavy cream in the ganache?

If you don’t have heavy cream, full-fat coconut milk works as a dairy-free alternative and gives a slight coconut flavor. Just be sure to use the thick cream portion from a chilled can for best results.

Can I make the brownie base ahead and add strawberries and ganache later?

Absolutely! You can bake the brownies a day in advance and store them in an airtight container. Add the strawberries and ganache just before serving to keep the fruit fresh and the ganache smooth.

How do I get fudgy brownies instead of cakey ones?

Using melted butter, more sugar, and limiting the flour helps keep brownies fudgy. Also, avoid overbaking by checking for moist crumbs with a toothpick. This recipe is designed specifically for a rich, fudgy texture you’ll love.

Can I use white chocolate or dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet for the ganache?

You can definitely experiment with white or dark chocolate. Keep in mind, white chocolate is sweeter and less bitter, so you may want to adjust the strawberry sweetness accordingly. Dark chocolate will make the ganache more intense and slightly less sweet.

Final Thoughts

These Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies are a dream come true for chocolate lovers who appreciate the bright contrast of fresh fruit layered with a ganache crown. I can’t recommend them enough for your next dessert craving, whether it’s a cozy night at home or a festive occasion. They’re easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and guaranteed to impress anyone lucky enough to taste them. So grab your ingredients and start baking—you’re in for a real treat!