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If you are looking for a show-stopping dessert that perfectly balances rich, fudgy brownie goodness with fresh, juicy strawberries and a luscious chocolate coating, then this Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies Recipe is exactly what you need. Each bite delivers a harmonious blend of textures and flavors—the dense brownie base, the bright burst of strawberry, and the silky smooth ganache draping it all in pure chocolate bliss. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a treasured favorite for celebrations or whenever you want to treat yourself and impress friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right for this dessert is key, but don’t worry—they are simple, accessible, and essential for creating the perfect balance of taste and texture. Each component plays a special role, from the fudgy brownie base to the fresh strawberries and the silky ganache that ties it all together.
- Brownie Mix: Choose your favorite boxed mix for convenience and consistent fudgy texture.
- Strawberries (1 lb): Fresh, ripe strawberries bring juiciness and tangy freshness.
- Semi Sweet Chocolate Chips (1½ cups): Use mostly semi-sweet or mix in dark chocolate for a richer ganache.
- Heavy Cream (¾ to 1 cup): This creates the perfect silky, glossy chocolate ganache to drizzle over the strawberries.
How to Make Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Base
Start by making the brownies directly in an 8″x8″ baking dish, following the package instructions on your chosen brownie mix. Baking in this size pan ensures a desirable thickness for the brownies, providing that fudge-like foundation that every bite needs. Once they’re baked, be sure to let them cool completely—it’s crucial for the ganache to set properly later.
Step 2: Prep and Arrange the Strawberries
Remove the stems from each strawberry and slice them in half lengthwise. Arranging the strawberries in a single layer on the cooled brownies, with the seed side up, creates a beautiful and flavorful topping. It also guarantees that every piece will have a burst of that fresh strawberry flavor balanced perfectly with the chocolate below.
Step 3: Make the Chocolate Ganache
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and heavy cream. Heat the mixture in short bursts—start with 25 seconds—then stir carefully. The gradual heating combined with constant stirring helps the chocolate melt evenly without burning. Continue microwaving for 20-second increments and stirring until the ganache becomes smooth, shiny, and glossy. This step can take patience, but the silky ganache is absolutely worth it.
Step 4: Pour and Chill
Pour your luscious ganache evenly over the strawberries, ensuring every inch is covered in that decadent chocolate layer. Pop the brownies into the refrigerator for 20 to 30 minutes until the ganache firms up nicely. It won’t harden like a shell but will develop a soft, almost fudge-like finish that’s irresistible.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
Once set, slice the brownies carefully and serve them within a day. Because the strawberries release moisture, these brownies are best enjoyed fresh to keep the texture just right and prevent sogginess.
How to Serve Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your brownies with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a few mint leaves for a pop of fresh color and aroma. You can also drizzle a little white chocolate over the ganache for an elegant touch that makes each piece look extra special.
Side Dishes
Serve these indulgent brownies alongside a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream to balance the richness and add a cooling element. Fresh whipped cream or a simple berry compote can also complement the flavors beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, present the Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies Recipe on a beautiful platter with extra fresh strawberries scattered around. Cut them into bite-sized squares for easy finger food or layer them with whipped cream and sliced strawberries in clear dessert cups for a stunning parfait-style presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Since the strawberries can release moisture, try to consume within 24 hours to enjoy the texture at its best—any longer, and the brownies may get a bit soggy but still taste good.
Freezing
Freezing these brownies isn’t recommended due to the fresh strawberries, which tend to lose their texture and release water upon thawing. To keep the integrity of the dessert, it’s best to make and enjoy this recipe fresh.
Reheating
Reheating isn’t necessary for this dessert, as they are wonderful chilled. If you prefer them slightly warm, let them come to room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving, which could melt the ganache unevenly and affect the fresh strawberry texture.
FAQs
Can I use homemade brownies instead of a mix?
Absolutely! Homemade brownies will work beautifully for this recipe. Just ensure they are fully cooled before arranging the strawberries and adding ganache.
What type of chocolate is best for the ganache?
Semi-sweet chocolate chips are ideal because they provide a nice balance of sweetness without overpowering the strawberries. You can mix in some dark chocolate for a deeper flavor if you like.
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Frozen strawberries aren’t recommended since they release too much moisture when thawed, which could make the brownies soggy. Fresh strawberries offer the best flavor and texture.
How long does the ganache need to chill?
The ganache should chill in the refrigerator for about 20 to 30 minutes until it firms up just enough to hold its shape but still remains silky and soft.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative and use dairy-free chocolate chips for the ganache. This swap still creates rich, creamy results.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with this Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies Recipe. It’s a deliciously simple yet elegant dessert that brings together your favorite classic flavors in a fun, fresh format. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just because, these brownies are sure to wow your taste buds and anyone lucky enough to share them with you. Give it a try—you might just find your new go-to sweet treat!
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Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies Recipe
Delight in a luscious twist on classic brownies with these Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies. An 8×8 brownie base is topped with fresh, halved strawberries and a silky, glossy chocolate ganache that perfectly complements the fruity sweetness. This recipe yields a decadent dessert perfect for sharing, combining the rich, fudgy texture of brownies with the fresh burst of strawberries and smooth chocolate topping.
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings
Ingredients
Brownie Base
- 1 Brownie Mix (for an 8″x8″ baking dish)
Fruit Topping
- 1 lb Strawberries, stems removed and cut in half lengthwise
Chocolate Ganache
- 1½ cups Semi Sweet Chocolate Chips (or use part dark chocolate)
- ¾ cup Heavy Cream (up to 1 cup if more is needed)
Instructions
- Prepare the Brownies: In an 8″x8″ baking dish, prepare the brownies according to the package directions. Once baked, allow them to cool completely at room temperature to ensure the ganache sets properly later.
- Prepare Strawberries: Remove the stems from the strawberries and slice each berry in half lengthwise, ensuring all pieces are approximately the same size for even layering.
- Arrange Strawberries: Place the strawberry halves in a single layer over the cooled brownie base, positioning them with the seed side facing upward to showcase their natural texture.
- Make the Chocolate Ganache: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and heavy cream. Microwave for 25 seconds, then stir slowly to begin melting the chocolate.
- Continue Melting Ganache: Microwave the mixture again for 20 seconds and stir thoroughly for at least 20 seconds to encourage a smooth texture. The residual heat will continue to melt the chocolate as you stir.
- Finish Ganache: If any chunks of chocolate remain, microwave in increments of 15 seconds, stirring well after each, until the ganache is smooth, glossy, and dark in color.
- Pour Ganache Over Strawberries: Evenly pour the warm chocolate ganache over the strawberry layer, making sure all berries are covered.
- Chill to Set: Refrigerate the brownies for 20-30 minutes, allowing the ganache to firm up. It will not harden completely but will become pleasantly stable.
- Serve: Slice the brownies into 9 squares and serve within a day for best texture and freshness as the strawberries release moisture over time.
Notes
- Ensure the brownies are fully cooled before adding strawberries and ganache to avoid melting the chocolate prematurely.
- Stir the ganache slowly and gradually heat to prevent overheating, which can cause the chocolate to seize.
- Use ripe, firm strawberries for the best flavor and to maintain structure on top of the brownies.
- Store leftovers in the fridge but consume within a day as moisture from the berries will affect texture.
- For a richer ganache, feel free to substitute some semi-sweet chips with dark chocolate.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
