If you’re searching for a swoon-worthy dessert that perfectly balances rich chocolate and fresh, juicy fruit, you’ve just found your new secret weapon: Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies. Imagine the fudgiest brownies you’ve ever tasted, topped with vibrant strawberries and a dreamy layer of silky chocolate ganache. Every bite is a celebration of texture and flavor, like chocolate-dipped strawberries and brownies finally realizing they were made for each other!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies is in the simplicity of their ingredients—each one brings something special to the party, making every layer sing with flavor, color, and texture. Here’s what you’ll need and why you shouldn’t skip a single thing!
- Fudge brownie mix: The rich, chocolatey base—choose your favorite brand for the chewiest texture and deepest flavor.
- Eggs, oil, and water: The dynamic trio that transforms mix into a luscious, moist batter.
- Fresh strawberries (2 cups, hulled and sliced): The star of the show, bringing a burst of tart-sweet freshness and pop of color.
- Semisweet chocolate chips (1 cup): For a glossy ganache with just the right balance of sweetness and cocoa intensity.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): The secret to a silky-smooth ganache that doesn’t harden but stays luxuriously soft.
- Unsalted butter (1 tablespoon): Adds richness and an extra glossy sheen to the ganache.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Rounds out the flavors and adds a subtly sweet aroma that ties everything together.
How to Make Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies
Step 1: Prep and Preheat
Let’s start by setting the stage for brownie greatness. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking pan, ensuring those brownies won’t stick when it’s time to slice.
Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter
Whip up your boxed fudge brownie mix according to the package’s instructions—that means mixing in eggs, oil, and water until your batter is glossy and irresistible. Pour it into your waiting pan, smoothing the top evenly for a picture-perfect bake.
Step 3: Bake to Fudgy Perfection
Slide your pan into the oven and bake for 22 to 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick poked in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached—the sign of brownies that are chewy and tender, not dry.
Step 4: Cool Completely
Resist the urge to dive in right away! Let those brownies cool completely in the pan. If they’re warm, the next layer won’t set properly, and you want everything to look and taste as decadent as possible.
Step 5: Layer on the Strawberries
Arrange your hulled and sliced strawberries evenly across the cooled brownies. This is where you get to use your inner artist—cover every inch so each crumbly square boasts loads of fresh fruit.
Step 6: Make the Ganache
In a small saucepan, gently heat your heavy cream over medium until it’s just steaming (don’t let it boil). Remove from heat, then scatter in your chocolate chips and butter, stirring until everything melts into a smooth, shiny pool. Finish with vanilla extract for that rich, aromatic lift.
Step 7: Pour and Chill
Quickly pour your warm ganache over the strawberries, gently spreading it to cover every berry. Now comes the hardest part: transfer the pan to your refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour. This helps the ganache set up beautifully, giving you neat, glossy brownie squares when you slice.
How to Serve Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies
Garnishes
A little flourish goes a long way! Try a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of extra melted chocolate, or even a sprig of fresh mint on the side for a touch of green that highlights those radiant strawberries.
Side Dishes
Pair these brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a glass of cold milk to complement the rich and fruity layers. If you’re feeling extra fancy, a raspberry coulis or some fresh mixed berries on the side makes dessert feel like a special affair.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, cut the Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies into mini squares and skewer them with cocktail picks for an easy-to-eat treat, or layer them in dessert cups with more berries and cream for a playful trifle. They even make a stunning gift: just wrap a few squares in wax paper and tie with a ribbon.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies fresh by storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This helps the ganache stay set and the strawberries keep their texture. They’ll taste fabulous for up to three days after baking.
Freezing
If you’d like to freeze leftovers, slice the brownies first and arrange them in a single layer (or with parchment between layers) before sealing tightly. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to one month. Just note that the strawberries’ texture may soften a bit upon thawing, but the flavor remains a delight.
Reheating
For that just-baked feel, thaw frozen brownies overnight in the refrigerator, then let them come to room temperature before serving. If you prefer them slightly warm, a short zap in the microwave (10-15 seconds) brings back that gooey, fresh-from-the-oven vibe.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Fresh strawberries are best for Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies, as they hold their shape and prevent excess moisture that could make the brownies soggy. If you only have frozen, thaw and pat them dry thoroughly before using.
What kind of brownie mix works best?
A fudgy brownie mix creates that rich, chewy base everyone loves. Look for ones labeled “fudge” or “extra moist”—and feel free to use your homemade brownie recipe if you prefer!
Can I make these brownies ahead for a party?
Absolutely! Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies keep well in the fridge, so you can make them the day before and let them chill overnight. In fact, the flavors meld even better after resting.
How do I neatly slice the brownies?
Chilling is key—make sure the ganache is fully set. Then, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts to get those crisp, clean edges that make each piece look bakery-perfect.
Do I have to chill the brownies before serving?
Yes, chilling is important for both texture and appearance. It helps the ganache firm up and allows the strawberries to stay fresh and in place when you slice the brownies.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious, you can’t go wrong with Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies. I promise, every bite is pure joy—so gather your ingredients and treat yourself (and your lucky friends) to a batch soon!
Print
Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 12 brownies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the ultimate chocolate-covered strawberry brownies that combine fudgy brownie goodness with fresh strawberries and a luscious chocolate ganache. Perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
Brownie Base:
- 1 box fudge brownie mix (plus eggs, oil, and water as called for)
Strawberry Layer:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries (hulled and sliced)
Chocolate Ganache:
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare Brownie Base: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan. Prepare brownie batter according to package instructions and bake for 22–25 minutes.
- Add Strawberries: Cool brownies, then top with sliced strawberries.
- Make Chocolate Ganache: Heat cream, mix in chocolate, butter, and vanilla until smooth. Pour over strawberries.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate brownies for at least 1 hour before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use ripe, firm strawberries to prevent excess moisture.
- Store brownies in the refrigerator and serve chilled for best texture.
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