If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that’s bursting with delightful textures and mouthwatering flavors, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies Recipe. Imagine fudgy, rich brownies topped with luscious fresh strawberries and enveloped in a silky chocolate ganache that’s both elegant and utterly addictive. It’s a true celebration of two classics combined into one sensational treat, perfect for sharing with loved ones or indulging all by yourself on a cozy afternoon.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the simplicity of these ingredients fool you—each one plays a crucial role in making these brownies irresistibly delicious. From the fudgy base to the juicy strawberries and the decadent chocolate topping, every component works together in perfect harmony to create an unforgettable dessert experience.
- 1 box brownie mix (plus eggs, oil, and water as per package): Provides the rich, fudgy foundation that’s quick and easy to prepare.
- 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced: Adds a juicy, fresh sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the intense chocolate.
- 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate: Essential for creating that smooth, glossy ganache that covers the berries.
- ¼ cup heavy cream: Gives the ganache its creamy texture and rich flavor.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional): Adds extra shine and silkiness to the chocolate topping, making it look as good as it tastes.
How to Make Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Bake the Brownies
Start by preheating your oven as directed on the brownie mix package. Prepare an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper or giving it a good spray with nonstick cooking spray. This ensures your brownies will come out effortlessly when baked. Mix the brownie batter according to the instructions on the box, then pour it into your prepared pan. Bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean, then set aside to cool completely. Patience here is key so that the layers to come hold perfectly.
Step 2: Layer the Fresh Strawberries
Once your brownies have cooled to room temperature, spread a generous, even layer of the fresh sliced strawberries over the entire surface. These bright, juicy slices add a fresh pop of flavor and a lovely contrast in texture against the dense brownies below.
Step 3: Make the Chocolate Ganache
Warm the heavy cream gently in a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl until it’s just about to simmer—watch carefully; you don’t want it boiling over. Pour the hot cream over your chocolate chips or chopped chocolate and let it sit undisturbed for 1 to 2 minutes to melt the chocolate fully. If you’re using butter, add it now for an extra glossy finish. Stir everything together until you have a smooth, velvety ganache that’s begging to be poured.
Step 4: Assemble and Chill
Drizzle and then spread the ganache carefully over the strawberry layer, ensuring every berry gets enveloped in that luscious chocolate blanket. For the best texture and flavor, refrigerate your creation for at least 30 minutes until the ganache firms up. When ready, cut into squares and prepare to wow everyone who tastes these beauties!
How to Serve Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies Recipe by adding a dusting of powdered sugar or a handful of finely chopped nuts like pistachios or almonds on top of the ganache. Fresh mint leaves can also add a refreshing touch and a splash of color that makes these brownies as photogenic as they are scrumptious.
Side Dishes
Pairing these brownies with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream complements the rich brownies and fruity strawberries perfectly. If you want to keep it simple, a glass of cold milk or a steaming cup of coffee will also do wonders for your dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the brownies into bite-sized squares and arrange them on a wooden board with extra fresh strawberries scattered around for a rustic, inviting look. Alternatively, serve individual squares on pretty dessert plates, drizzled with a little extra melted chocolate or strawberry sauce for a decadent touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Since this Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies Recipe involves fresh strawberries, keep your leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess. They’ll stay delicious for up to 2 to 3 days—perfect for enjoying throughout the week.
Freezing
Freezing isn’t recommended for these brownies because the fresh strawberries will lose texture and release moisture upon thawing, resulting in a soggy dessert. It’s best enjoyed fresh or well chilled within a few days of making.
Reheating
If you prefer softer brownies, remove your desired portion from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving because it can melt the ganache unevenly and turn your beautiful topping oily.
FAQs
Can I use homemade brownies instead of boxed mix?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute your favorite scratch brownie recipe for the boxed mix. Just make sure your brownies are fully cooled before adding the strawberry and ganache layers.
What type of chocolate works best for the ganache?
Semi-sweet chocolate is ideal because it balances the sweetness of the strawberries and brownies. However, you can experiment with dark or milk chocolate depending on your taste preferences.
Can I prepare this dessert ahead of time?
You can bake the brownies a day in advance and keep them wrapped airtight at room temperature. Add the strawberries and ganache on the day you plan to serve for the freshest results.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
You can use dairy-free brownie mixes, plant-based cream alternatives, and vegan chocolate to recreate this recipe. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly with substitutions.
How do I prevent the strawberries from making the brownies soggy?
Layering the strawberries evenly and chilling the dessert to set the ganache helps lock in moisture and prevent sogginess. Using firm, ripe strawberries also reduces excess juices from seeping into the brownies.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about combining the rich, comforting decadence of brownies with the fresh, vibrant sweetness of strawberries wrapped in glossy chocolate. This Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies Recipe is one of those desserts that feels special but couldn’t be easier to make—perfect for celebrations or simply treating yourself. Trust me, once you try it, it will become a treasured favorite of yours too!
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Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Yield: 9–12 brownies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in the rich and fruity combination of Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies, featuring a moist brownie base topped with fresh strawberries and a luscious chocolate ganache. This decadent dessert is perfect for special occasions or whenever you crave a sweet, indulgent treat.
Ingredients
Brownie Base
- 1 box brownie mix (plus ingredients listed on the box, usually eggs, oil, and water)
Topping
- 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional, for extra shine)
Instructions
- Prepare Brownies: Preheat the oven according to the brownie mix instructions and line an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly spray with nonstick spray.
- Mix and Bake: Prepare the brownie batter as directed on the package, including eggs, oil, and water as required. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake according to package instructions, usually about 30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean.
- Cool Completely: Remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan to ensure the ganache will set properly.
- Layer Strawberries: Once cooled, evenly layer the sliced, hulled strawberries over the top of the brownies for a fresh, fruity base layer.
- Prepare Ganache: In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, gently heat the heavy cream until it just begins to simmer. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips or chopped chocolate and let it sit undisturbed for 1–2 minutes to soften the chocolate.
- Stir Ganache: Optionally add the unsalted butter for extra shine, then stir until the mixture is smooth, glossy, and fully combined.
- Pour Ganache: Spread the chocolate ganache evenly over the layered strawberries, ensuring they are fully covered.
- Chill: Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or until the ganache is set and firm to the touch.
- Serve: Slice into 9–12 squares and serve chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture experience.
Notes
- For a homemade brownie base, substitute your favorite scratch brownie recipe.
- Use firm, ripe strawberries for the best texture and flavor contrast.
- Store the brownies in the refrigerator due to the fresh fruit topping and consume within 2–3 days for optimal freshness.
