If you adore the perfect balance of rich chocolate and fresh fruit, this Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies Recipe is about to become your new obsession. Imagine fudgy brownies topped with a luscious, sweet strawberry layer and finished with a silky chocolate ganache—each bite bursting with indulgence and a refreshing fruity zing. This dessert is both eye-catching and irresistible, making it a standout treat for any occasion or just a luxurious everyday snack.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies Recipe calls for simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create layers of incredible flavor and texture. Each component has its role from moistening and enriching the brownies, to delivering that bright strawberry freshness and the glossy chocolate finish.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup melted): Ensures a rich, tender brownie base without overpowering saltiness.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup + 1 tablespoon): Sweetens both the brownies and the strawberry layer to just the right level.
- Large eggs (2): Bind everything together and add moisture to the batter.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds warmth and depth to the chocolate flavor.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (1/3 cup): Delivers that deep, chocolatey richness critical for brownies.
- All-purpose flour (1/2 cup): Provides structure without making the brownies too cakey.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- Baking powder (1/4 teaspoon): Gives a subtle lift for just the right brownie texture.
- Fresh strawberries (1 1/2 cups, finely chopped): The star of the strawberry layer, delivering fresh fruity flavor and vibrant color.
- Lemon juice (1/2 teaspoon): Brightens the strawberry mixture and cuts through sweetness.
- Powdered sugar (1 cup): Creates a smooth, sweet strawberry frosting when mixed with butter.
- Softened unsalted butter (3 tablespoons): Adds creaminess and helps the strawberry layer hold its shape.
- Semisweet chocolate chips (1/2 cup): For a glossy, decadent chocolate topping that brings it all together.
- Heavy cream (2 tablespoons): Blended with the chocolate chips to create that luscious ganache glaze.
How to Make Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Base
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract, mixing until perfectly smooth and creamy. Then, gently add in the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder, stirring just until everything is combined—overmixing can toughen your brownies, and we want irresistibly tender ones. Pour the mixture evenly into your pan for that perfect bake.
Step 2: Bake and Cool
Bake the batter for about 20 to 22 minutes, until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs clinging to it. This ensures your brownies stay fudgy, not dry. Remove from the oven and allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before moving onto the next layer—it’s crucial for the strawberry topping not to slide off!
Step 3: Make the Strawberry Layer
While the brownies cool, mash the fresh strawberries in a small bowl, stirring in 1 tablespoon of sugar and the lemon juice to elevate their natural sweetness and brightness. Let this mixture sit for 10 minutes to release juice, then strain it well to remove excess liquid—this prevents the strawberry layer from becoming runny. In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter with powdered sugar until fluffy, then fold in the strawberries until smooth and spreadable. This strawberry frosting is fruity, creamy, and perfectly tangy.
Step 4: Spread and Chill the Strawberry Layer
Spread the silky strawberry mixture evenly over your cooled brownie layer. Once done, pop the pan into the fridge for at least 30 minutes to chill and let the layer set up nicely—this step helps create distinct layers that hold up beautifully when you slice the brownies.
Step 5: Prepare the Chocolate Topping
To finish, gently heat the semisweet chocolate chips with the heavy cream in short 20-second bursts in the microwave, stirring between each until completely smooth and glossy. Pour this luxurious chocolate ganache over the chilled strawberry layer and spread it evenly. Chill your masterpiece for at least an hour to set the topping firmly before slicing.
How to Serve Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation, garnish your brownies with a few whole or halved fresh strawberries arranged artfully on top of the chocolate layer. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of chopped nuts can add a subtle texture contrast and make the dessert pop visually.
Side Dishes
Pair these indulgent brownies with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to balance the richness. For a lighter touch, serve alongside a simple mixed berry salad to keep the fruity theme vibrant and fresh.
Creative Ways to Present
You can cut the brownies into small squares for bite-sized party treats or go for larger chunks stacked on dessert plates for a more decadent look. For a special twist, drizzle some extra melted white chocolate or create a striped effect with raspberry coulis on top of the chocolate glaze.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
These Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies Recipe leftovers will keep well when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The strawberry layer tastes even better after a day as the flavors meld together beautifully, but make sure to cover tightly to prevent drying out.
Freezing
If you want to keep them longer, freeze the brownies before adding the chocolate topping for best texture. Wrap individual brownies or the whole pan tightly in plastic wrap and foil; frozen brownies maintain their flavor and texture for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before topping with chocolate ganache.
Reheating
For a warm treat, gently reheat brownies in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds, but be cautious not to melt the strawberry layer excessively. Alternatively, enjoy them straight from the fridge for a cool, refreshing bite that highlights the strawberry flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before using, to avoid a soggy strawberry layer in your brownies.
What if I don’t have heavy cream for the chocolate topping?
You can substitute with an equal amount of milk or half-and-half, but the ganache might be slightly less rich and glossy. Heavy cream really helps achieve that silky smooth finish.
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. Just be sure the blend contains xanthan gum for the best texture.
How do I prevent the strawberry layer from becoming too runny?
The key is finely mashing the strawberries and then straining the excess juice before mixing with the butter and powdered sugar. This keeps the layer thick and spreadable without seepage.
Are these brownies suitable for special occasions?
Definitely! With their elegant layers and vibrant colors, these Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies Recipe are perfect for Valentine’s Day, birthdays, or any celebration where you want to impress with both flavor and appearance.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about this Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies Recipe that brightens up any day. Combining the richness of classic brownies, the fresh zest of strawberries, and a decadent chocolate topping, it’s a dessert that’s sure to be loved by friends and family alike. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a cherished treat in your kitchen!
Print
Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these luscious chocolate-covered strawberry brownies, featuring a rich cocoa brownie base topped with a sweet and tangy strawberry layer, all finished with a silky chocolate ganache. Perfect for celebrating Valentine’s Day or any special occasion, these layered brownies combine the best of chocolate and fresh fruit for a decadent dessert experience.
Ingredients
Brownie Batter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 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
Strawberry Layer
- 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries (finely chopped)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
Chocolate Topping
- 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
Instructions
- Prepare Brownie Batter: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. Gently stir in the cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder just until all ingredients are incorporated, taking care not to overmix.
- Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan and spread with a spatula. Bake for 20–22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely in the pan to set properly for the next layer.
- Prepare Strawberry Layer: Finely mash the fresh strawberries in a small bowl and mix with 1 tablespoon granulated sugar and 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice. Let this mixture sit for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld, then strain out any excess liquid to prevent sogginess. In a separate medium bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Fold in the mashed strawberries until you achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency.
- Apply Strawberry Layer: Spread the strawberry mixture evenly over the fully cooled brownie base. Once done, place the pan in the refrigerator to chill for 30 minutes to firm up this layer.
- Make Chocolate Topping: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semisweet chocolate chips and heavy cream. Heat in 20-second increments, stirring in between, until the chocolate is fully melted and mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Top and Chill: Pour and spread the melted chocolate ganache evenly over the chilled strawberry layer. Return the brownies to the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour to allow the chocolate to set completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use very finely chopped or mashed strawberries to prevent the strawberry layer from becoming runny.
- Frozen strawberries can be used as a substitute; be sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly to remove excess moisture.
- For an extra decadent presentation, garnish the brownies with chocolate-dipped strawberries right before serving.
