These yummy chocolate-covered strawberry brownies are a match made in heaven! The rich brownie base is topped with sweet strawberries and a smooth, chocolate coating that’s hard to resist.
I can’t help but smile every time I make these! The mix of fudgy brownies and fresh fruit is just perfect. They are a fun treat for any occasion, or even just to enjoy at home. 🍓🍫
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for control over salt content, but you can use salted butter; just reduce the added salt. I find that real butter gives a richer flavor.
Sugar: Granulated sugar is standard here, but you could use coconut sugar for a deeper taste, or a sugar substitute if you’re watching your sugar intake. Just be mindful of the texture change.
Eggs: To keep it egg-free, you can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce for each egg. This works well in brownies and adds moisture.
Flour: All-purpose flour is what I stick with, but you can try whole wheat flour for added nutrition. Just note that it may change the texture slightly.
Cocoa Powder: Dutch-processed cocoa gives a milder taste, while unsweetened cocoa offers a more intense chocolate flavor. I personally love using a mix of both for depth.
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries bring moisture and flavor, but you could use raspberries or even dried strawberries to change things up. Just adjust for sweetness accordingly.
How Do I Ensure My Brownies Are Fudgy and Not Overbaked?
The key to fudgy brownies is not to overbake them. Here’s how to nail that gooey texture:
- Keep an eye on baking time. Start checking for doneness at 25 minutes; you want a toothpick to come out with moist crumbs, not clean.
- Let them cool in the pan for 10 minutes; this helps them set without drying out.
- Use a light touch when folding in ingredients to avoid overmixing, which can lead to tougher brownies.
- Don’t skip the chocolate drizzle! It not only adds flavor but keeps the brownies moist and adds beautiful presentation.
How to Make Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Brownie Batter:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (for topping)
For Garnish:
- Additional fresh strawberries
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate or chocolate sauce (for drizzling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious treat requires about 15 minutes of prep time and 25-30 minutes of baking time. Don’t forget to add a little extra time for cooling before you can dive in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan:
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a 9×13 inch baking pan and grease it well, then line the bottom with parchment paper, allowing some to hang over the edges. This will help you easily lift the brownies out later.
2. Melt the Butter and Mix:
In a saucepan over low heat, melt the unsalted butter until it’s nice and smooth. Once melted, take it off the heat and stir in the granulated sugar until it’s well combined. You’re making a sweet, gooey mixture!
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla:
Next, crack in your eggs one at a time, mixing everything together well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract for that delicious flavor boost!
4. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Now, gradually add this dry mixture into your wet ingredients, stirring gently until they’re just combined. Don’t overmix; we want the brownies to be fudgy!
5. Fold in the Strawberries:
Gently fold in the sliced strawberries. You want to make sure they’re evenly distributed throughout your brownie batter without mashing them too much.
6. Bake the Brownies:
Pour your brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly. Pop it in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. To check if they’re done, insert a toothpick in the center—it should come out with a few moist crumbs.
7. Melt the Chocolate Topping:
While the brownies are baking, melt your semi-sweet chocolate chips. You can do this in a microwave-safe bowl (heat in short bursts, stirring in between) or over a double boiler until smooth and silky.
8. Cool the Brownies:
Once the brownies are baked, let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. After that, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Add the Chocolate Drizzle:
When the brownies are cool, drizzle the melted chocolate over the top. Don’t be shy; make it look beautiful! Top with additional fresh strawberries for that pretty finish.
10. Final Touches:
If you like, add a drizzle of dark chocolate or chocolate sauce in a fun pattern over everything. Let the chocolate set a bit before cutting the brownies into squares.
11. Serve and Enjoy!
Finally, it’s time to serve! These brownies are perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself. Enjoy the chocolaty goodness and fresh strawberry burst!
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but it’s best to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture in the brownies. Simply place them in the fridge overnight or let them sit at room temperature for a couple of hours before using.
What If I Don’t Have Unsweetened Cocoa Powder?
If you don’t have unsweetened cocoa powder, you can substitute it with Dutch-processed cocoa powder for a deeper flavor. Just avoid using sweetened cocoa, as it might change the sweetness of your brownies!
How to Store Leftover Brownies?
Store 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 up to a week, or freeze them for up to 3 months. To freeze, wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
Can I Add Nuts or Other Toppings to the Brownies?
Absolutely! Feel free to fold in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the batter for added crunch. You can also top the brownies with shredded coconut or mini marshmallows before drizzling with chocolate for a fun twist!
