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
Scale
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.
