If you’re looking to wow your friends and family with an irresistible treat, this Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies Recipe is absolutely the way to go. Imagine rich, fudgy brownies layered with a luscious, freshly cooked strawberry filling, all topped off with a shiny, silky chocolate ganache. The combination of deep chocolate and bright strawberries creates a dessert that feels both decadent and delightfully fresh. Whether for a special occasion or a cozy night in, these brownies bring a burst of flavor and charm that you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet essential, each one playing a crucial role in building the layers of flavor, moisture, and texture that make this dessert unforgettable.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup, melted): Provides a rich, smooth base for the brownie batter and adds moisture for that perfect fudgy texture.
- Granulated sugar (1½ cups): Sweetens the brownies and helps create a tender crumb.
- Brown sugar (1 cup): Adds both sweetness and a subtle caramel flavor, enhancing the depth of the brownies.
- Large eggs (4): Bind everything together while creating a chewy, dense texture.
- Vanilla extract (1 tablespoon): Elevates all the flavors with a warm, aromatic touch.
- All-purpose flour (1 cup): Provides structure without overpowering the moistness of the brownies.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (1 cup): Delivers the rich chocolate flavor, the heart and soul of the brownie layer.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances chocolate’s richness.
- Chopped fresh strawberries (1½ cups): The vibrant, juicy star of the strawberry layer.
- Sugar (2 tablespoons): Sweetens the strawberry filling just enough to let the fruit shine.
- Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): Thickens the strawberry mixture into a luscious jam-like consistency.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1 cup): For the topping, these melt into a glossy, dreamy ganache.
- Heavy cream (½ cup): Blends with chocolate chips to create a silky ganache that crowns the brownies perfectly.
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 a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper for easy removal later. Whisk together melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar in a large bowl until smooth and glossy. Incorporate the eggs one by one, then stir in vanilla extract. Gently fold in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt until just combined—to keep those brownies irresistibly tender. Pour the batter into the pan, spreading it evenly for an even bake. Bake for 28 to 32 minutes, until a toothpick comes out with just a few moist crumbs. Let it cool completely, which is very important so the toppings won’t slide off.
Step 2: Create the Strawberry Layer
While your brownies cool, toss chopped fresh strawberries with sugar and cornstarch in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly as it cooks, around 5 minutes, until the mixture thickens into a beautiful, glossy jam. Then remove it from heat and allow it to cool. This strawberry layer adds a fresh, fruity vibrancy that cuts through the richness of the brownies perfectly. Once cooled, spread it evenly over the brownie base, ensuring every bite will have a juicy surprise.
Step 3: Make and Add the Chocolate Ganache
Warm the heavy cream in a small pot until it’s steaming but not boiling—this is key to a smooth ganache. Pour the hot cream over the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a bowl and let them sit for 2 minutes. Then stir gently until silky and glossy. Spread this luscious ganache evenly over the strawberry layer, smoothing it out for a gorgeous finish. Pop the whole pan into the fridge to chill for at least an hour—this sets all those layers beautifully so you can cut into neat, enticing squares.
How to Serve Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
For that extra wow factor, think fresh strawberry slices carefully fanned out on each brownie or maybe a sprinkle of powdered sugar dusted on top. A few delicate mint leaves also bring a lovely pop of color and freshness that complements the chocolate and strawberry combo beautifully.
Side Dishes
These brownies are showstoppers on their own, but if you’re serving at a party or gathering, offer a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side. A cup of rich coffee or a glass of cold milk always pairs perfectly, balancing out the decadence.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to make your Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies Recipe the centerpiece, try cutting them into bite-sized mini squares and serving on a pretty platter with small dessert forks. Or layer a brownie square in a glass dessert cup topped with fresh strawberries for a layered parfait style treat. The visual appeal matches the deliciousness every time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover brownies keep beautifully in an airtight container stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors meld and deepen overnight, so sometimes they taste even better the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze the brownies before adding the ganache or after chilling with the ganache. Wrap well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn, and they will keep fresh for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
If you prefer your brownies warm, gently microwave individual slices for about 10 to 15 seconds. This softens the chocolate and releases the aroma without melting the ganache too much.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can substitute frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them well so the filling doesn’t become too watery. Fresh strawberries tend to work better for texture and flavor, though.
Is there a shortcut for this Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies Recipe?
Absolutely! You can start with a boxed brownie mix for ease and then add your homemade strawberry layer and chocolate ganache on top. It’s a smart way to save time while still delivering impressive results.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, swapping standard butter for dairy-free margarine and using a plant-based cream alternative for the ganache can work well. Just be sure to check that your chocolate chips are dairy-free too.
How thick should I spread the strawberry layer?
About a quarter-inch thick is perfect—just enough to add juicy flavor without overpowering the rich brownie base or making the bars difficult to slice.
How do I know when the brownies are done baking?
Insert a toothpick near the center at the 28-minute mark. It should come out with a few moist crumbs, but not wet batter. This ensures the brownies stay fudgy rather than cakey.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, you’re going to love making and sharing this Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies Recipe. It’s one of those desserts that feels sophisticated yet homey, perfect for any time you want something special. Once you try it, these layered berries and chocolate goodies will become a favorite ritual in your kitchen!
Print
Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these decadent Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies featuring a rich, fudgy brownie base topped with a luscious strawberry layer and smooth chocolate ganache. Perfect for Valentine’s Day or any special occasion, this dessert combines the bold flavors of cocoa and fresh strawberries for an irresistible treat.
Ingredients
For the brownies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the strawberry layer:
- 1½ cups chopped fresh strawberries
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
For the chocolate topping:
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Prepare the Brownie Batter: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly to combine. Stir in the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt until just incorporated without overmixing.
- Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 28 to 32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely in the pan.
- Make the Strawberry Layer: While the brownies cool, place the chopped strawberries, sugar, and cornstarch in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
- Assemble the Strawberry Layer: Once cooled, spread the thickened strawberry mixture evenly over the surface of the cooled brownies using a spatula.
- Prepare the Chocolate Ganache: Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan or microwave until steaming but not boiling. Pour the hot cream over the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Let it sit for 2 minutes, then stir gently until smooth and glossy.
- Finish and Chill: Pour the chocolate ganache over the strawberry layer, spreading evenly with a spatula. Place the brownies in the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour to set the topping before slicing into 16 squares and serving.
Notes
- For a quicker option, use a boxed brownie mix following package directions, then add the strawberry and chocolate layers as specified.
- Store leftover brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain freshness.
