These Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies are a delicious treat! They combine rich chocolate flavors with juicy strawberries and are perfect for any sweet tooth.
Honestly, who can resist that chocolatey goodness topped with fresh berries? I mean, it’s like a hug for your taste buds! 🍓🍫
I love serving these at parties or just for a cozy night in. They’re easy to make and disappear in a flash—everyone always asks for the recipe!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter gives you control over the saltiness. If you need a dairy-free option, coconut oil or a vegan butter would work great in this recipe.
Granulated Sugar: This adds sweetness and moisture. For a healthier alternative, consider using coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like stevia, but start with less as they can be sweeter.
Fresh Strawberries: Strawberries are key for flavor. If they’re out of season, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them well first.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder gives the brownies a rich chocolate flavor. If you’re in a pinch, Dutch-processed cocoa is a fine substitute, but it may change the color and flavor slightly.
Heavy Cream: This is essential for making a smooth ganache. If you prefer a lighter version, you can use coconut cream or a milk substitute like almond milk, but it may not be as rich.
How Do I Get the Perfect Brownie Texture?
Getting the right brownie texture can be tricky! Follow these steps to ensure your brownies are fudgy and delicious:
- Don’t overmix the batter. Mix just until combined to keep them soft and chewy.
- When you add the dry ingredients, fold gently instead of stirring vigorously to prevent a dense brownie.
- Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick. It should come out with a few moist crumbs, indicating they’re perfectly baked.
- Let them cool in the pan after baking—this helps them set up a little more.
How to Make Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Brownies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
For The Topping:
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- Additional strawberries for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. Once you add the lovely chocolate ganache and let it cool a bit, you’ll be ready to serve these scrumptious brownies. Overall, plan for about 1 hour from start to finish before they’re all set to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Your Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
2. Melt the Butter:
In a large bowl, melt the unsalted butter in the microwave or on low heat in a saucepan. Once it’s melted, allow it to cool slightly so it doesn’t cook the eggs when mixed in.
3. Mix in Sugar and Eggs:
Add the granulated sugar to the melted butter and stir well until combined. Then, beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure to mix well after each addition. Don’t forget to add the vanilla extract for that extra flavor!
4. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In another bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. This ensures that everything mixes evenly and your brownies are nice and fluffy.
5. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined—don’t overwork it! Then, fold in the sliced strawberries carefully to keep their shape.
6. Bake the Brownies:
Pour the brownie batter into your prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs.
7. Prepare the Chocolate Ganache:
While the brownies are baking, make the chocolate ganache. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it starts to simmer. Remove from heat and add the semi-sweet chocolate chips, stirring until the mixture is smooth and melted.
8. Finish and Garnish:
Once the brownies are baked, take them out of the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, drizzle the rich chocolate ganache over the top. Let it set a bit, then slice the brownies into squares. Before serving, add some additional fresh strawberries on top for a beautiful touch!
Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies—a perfect treat for any occasion!
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries! Just make sure to thaw them first and drain any excess liquid to avoid making the batter too wet. Pat the thawed strawberries dry with paper towels, then fold them gently into the brownie batter.
Can I Substitute Cocoa Powder for Another Type of Cocoa?
Sure! If you have Dutch-processed cocoa powder, you can use that instead of unsweetened cocoa powder. Just keep in mind that it may give the brownies a slightly different flavor and texture, but they will still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftover Brownies?
Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for about a week, or freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn!
Can I Make These Brownies Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. Make sure to check that it contains xanthan gum for better structure, or add a 1/4 teaspoon per cup of flour used. Your brownies will still be fudgy and delicious!
