Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies

This chocolate covered strawberry brownie recipe has become my favorite way to blend two irresistible flavors into one show-stopping dessert. The rich, fudgy chocolate base creates the perfect foundation for fresh strawberries, all enrobed in silky ganache that sets to a glossy finish.

I first created these brownies for my anniversary dinner at home when I wanted something special without the fuss of a complicated dessert. The combination of warm brownie squares topped with juicy strawberries and that crack of chocolate coating became an instant tradition in our home.

Ingredients

• For the Brownies
• 1 cup unsalted butter: provides richness and moisture that makes these brownies distinctly fudgy rather than cakey
• 2 cups granulated sugar: balances the bitterness of the cocoa powder without making the brownies overly sweet
• 4 large eggs: add structure and help create that crackly top brownie lovers crave
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: enhances the chocolate flavor without overpowering it
• 1 cup all-purpose flour: just enough for structure while keeping brownies dense and rich
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: delivers intense chocolate flavor; look for Dutch-processed for a smoother taste
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: absolutely essential to balance the sweetness and enhance chocolate notes
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: provides just enough lift without making brownies too cakey
• For the Topping
• 1 pint fresh strawberries: choose bright red berries with no white shoulders for the sweetest flavor
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: creates the perfect ganache topping; use high quality chips for best melting
• 1/2 cup heavy cream: blends with chocolate for a pourable yet settable ganache

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Your Pan:

Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper creating overhangs on the sides. This step is crucial for easy removal later and prevents the brownies from sticking to the pan. The parchment should extend at least 2 inches beyond the pan edges.

Create the Brownie Base:

Melt butter completely in a large bowl until just liquid but not hot. Immediately whisk in sugar until the mixture looks slightly grainy but well combined. Add eggs one at a time, whisking thoroughly between each addition until the mixture becomes noticeably lighter in color and slightly thickened. This process incorporates air for that perfect brownie texture.

Combine Dry Ingredients:

Sift the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder together to remove any lumps. Cocoa powder especially tends to clump, and sifting ensures even distribution of all dry ingredients throughout your batter. Gradually fold these dry ingredients into your wet mixture using a gentle hand to avoid overmixing which can make brownies tough.

Bake to Perfection:

Spread the thick batter evenly in your prepared pan, taking care to reach the corners. Bake at 350°F for exactly 25 minutes, then check by inserting a toothpick in the center. You want moist crumbs but not wet batter. Allow brownies to cool completely in the pan which could take up to two hours. Patience here is essential for the perfect texture.

Arrange Strawberry Layer:

Once brownies are completely cool, place halved strawberries cut-side down in neat rows across the entire surface. Press them slightly into the brownie top to ensure they stay in place when the ganache is added.

Create Silky Ganache:

Heat heavy cream just until it begins to simmer around the edges but not boil. Pour over chocolate chips and let sit undisturbed for 2 minutes allowing the heat to begin melting the chocolate. Then stir slowly from the center outward until completely smooth and glossy.

Finish the Masterpiece:

Pour still-warm ganache carefully over the strawberry-topped brownies, using a spatula to guide it into all the spaces between berries. The ganache should completely cover the strawberries while still allowing their shape to show through.

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The strawberry-chocolate pairing brings me back to my first date with my spouse when we shared chocolate-dipped strawberries. These brownies have become our anniversary tradition, and each year I try to find the most perfect, fragrant strawberries to crown the top.

Storage Wisdom

These brownies actually improve with a day of resting in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Store them in an airtight container with parchment between layers for up to 4 days. The ganache keeps the brownies moist while protecting the strawberries from drying out. For longer storage, you can freeze the base brownies without toppings for up to 3 months, then thaw and add fresh strawberries and ganache before serving.

Seasonal Variations

While strawberries create the classic version, this recipe welcomes seasonal adaptations. In summer, try using fresh raspberries or blackberries for a more intense berry flavor. Fall calls for thinly sliced pears or figs with a sprinkle of cinnamon in the ganache. Winter versions can incorporate orange segments or pomegranate arils for bright color and flavor contrast against the rich chocolate. The brownie base remains your constant canvas for creativity.

Make It Yours

The brownie base welcomes thoughtful additions that complement the strawberry topping. Consider folding in 1/2 cup chopped toasted nuts for texture contrast or adding 1 tablespoon of espresso powder to intensify the chocolate flavor without tasting like coffee. For special occasions, a tablespoon of strawberry liqueur in the ganache creates a sophisticated flavor bridge between the chocolate and fruit components.

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Serving Suggestions

These brownies transition beautifully from casual to elegant depending on presentation. For everyday enjoyment, serve squares as is. For dinner parties, plate individual brownies with a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream and a fresh strawberry on the side. A light dusting of cocoa powder or powdered sugar just before serving adds a professional finishing touch that takes seconds to achieve.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What makes these brownies unique?

The combination of a rich, fudgy brownie base, fresh strawberries, and smooth chocolate ganache creates a decadent and unique dessert experience.

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Fresh strawberries are recommended for the best texture and flavor, but you can use thawed frozen strawberries if needed.

→ How do I store the brownies?

Store the brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving if desired.

→ Can I substitute dark chocolate for the ganache?

Yes, you can use dark chocolate if you prefer a less sweet ganache. Adjust the cream ratio slightly for the desired consistency.

→ Do I need a specific size baking pan?

A 9×13-inch baking pan is ideal for this recipe to ensure the brownies bake evenly and provide the perfect thickness.