There’s something utterly indulgent about the combination of chocolate and strawberries that never fails to delight. As I was rummaging through my pantry one evening, hunting for inspiration to satisfy my sweet tooth, I stumbled upon a brilliant idea: what if I could transform my traditional brownie recipe into a dessert that showcases the allure of those juicy, chocolate-covered strawberries?
Enter my Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies—a decadent treat that effortlessly combines the richness of fudgy brownies with the freshness of vibrant strawberries. Perfect for impressing guests at a gathering or simply indulging yourself after a long day. In just under an hour, these brownies come together with minimal fuss, making it easy to whip up something extraordinary without sacrificing your evening.
Get ready to elevate your dessert game and bring smiles to the faces of family and friends with this delightful twist on a classic. Trust me, you won’t want to miss that first bite!
Why You'll Love This Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
- These Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies are incredibly easy to make, allowing you to whip up a delicious dessert in no time.
- The delightful combination of rich, fudgy brownies and fresh, chocolate-covered strawberries creates an explosion of flavor that will leave everyone wanting more.
- Not only are they a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, but their stunning visual appeal makes them perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations.
- Plus, with only a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can enjoy a gourmet dessert without the hassle.
Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies Ingredients
Get ready to create a sweet masterpiece!
For the Brownies
- 1 cup unsalted butter – essential for a rich, fudgy base; make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- 2 cups granulated sugar – adds sweetness and moisture to your brownies; consider reducing if you prefer less sweetness.
- 4 large eggs – binds everything together and helps create a lovely texture; room temperature eggs work best.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances the chocolate flavor; feel free to use pure vanilla for an aromatic boost.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour – provides structure to the brownies; sifted flour helps prevent lumps.
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder – gives that deep, chocolatey goodness; opt for high-quality cocoa for richer flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – balances sweetness and enhances flavors; don’t skip it!
- 1 cup chocolate chips – adds extra chocolatey goodness; mix dark and milk chocolate chips for a flavor contrast.
For the Topping
- 1 pound fresh strawberries – choose ripe, juicy strawberries for the best flavor; wash and dry them thoroughly.
- 8 ounces milk chocolate, for dipping – creates a smooth coating for the strawberries; melt gently to avoid burning.
Whip up these Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies and enjoy a dessert that’s sure to impress!
How to Make Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
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Preheat oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the brownies bake evenly and achieve that perfect fudgy texture.
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Melt butter: In a saucepan over low heat, melt 1 cup of unsalted butter. Stir in 2 cups of granulated sugar until well combined and smooth.
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Mix eggs and vanilla: Remove the saucepan from heat and add 4 large eggs and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until the batter is glossy and well-blended.
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Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
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Incorporate dry ingredients: Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, folding until just combined. The batter should be thick and smooth.
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Add chocolate chips: Gently fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips. This will give your brownies extra chunks of melty chocolate throughout!
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Prepare to bake: Pour the batter into a greased baking pan, spreading it evenly in the corners.
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Bake brownies: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. They’re ready when a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
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Cool completely: Once baked, allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture!
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Melt chocolate for strawberries: While the brownies cool, melt 8 ounces of milk chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl or double boiler, stirring gently until smooth.
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Dip strawberries: Dip 1 pound of fresh strawberries into the melted chocolate, coating them generously. Place them on a parchment-lined tray to set.
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Assemble your dessert: Finally, once everything is set, place the chocolate-covered strawberries on top of your cooled brownies for a stunning presentation.
Optional: Drizzle leftover melted chocolate over the top for an extra touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies?
These delightful brownies are the perfect centerpiece for any gathering, inviting you to create a sumptuous meal around them.
- Coffee or Espresso: A rich cup of your favorite brew enhances the chocolatey goodness of the brownies while cutting through the sweetness beautifully.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture and cold temperature contrast perfectly with the warm, fudgy brownies. A scoop on top makes every bite a heavenly treat.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing balance to the richness of the brownies, offering a light and zesty contrast.
- Chocolate Fondue: For the truly indulgent, serve with a chocolate fondue for dipping other fruits and snacks. It’s a delightful interactive experience!
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream provides a light and airy touch that brilliantly offsets the denser brownie texture.
- Raspberry Sauce: This tart sauce adds a pop of flavor that elevates the overall dessert experience and pairs splendidly with chocolate and strawberries.
- Sparkling Wine or Champagne: A glass of bubbly complements the rich brownies wonderfully, elevating your dessert into a celebratory affair.
- Mint Tea: The refreshing notes of mint tea create a perfect palate cleanser after the rich sweetness, enhancing the overall dessert experience.
These suggestions promise to elevate your dessert game, transforming your Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies into an unforgettable feast!
How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
Room Temperature: Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their moist texture.
Fridge: For extended freshness, these brownies can be kept in the refrigerator for up to a week. Make sure to wrap them well to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: To freeze, place cut brownies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or wrap individually in plastic wrap and foil. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy your chocolate covered strawberry brownies warm, simply reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or until just warmed through.
Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own with these delicious twists!
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Nutty Brownies: Add 1 cup of chopped nuts, like walnuts or almonds, to the batter for extra crunch and flavor. The addition of nuts can give your brownies a delightful texture contrast.
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Minty Twist: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of mint extract into the batter for a refreshing flavor. This easy swap can transform your brownies into a cool, minty treat that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to cater to dietary needs without sacrificing taste. Just ensure you use a blend that’s suitable for baking, making these brownies accessible to everyone.
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Dark Chocolate Lovers: Replace the milk chocolate for dipping with dark chocolate for a richer taste. Dark chocolate adds depth and a sophisticated appeal, perfect for adults who enjoy intense chocolate flavors.
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Spicy Surprise: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the brownie batter for a little kick! This unexpected twist will send your taste buds on a delightful journey—sweet meets heat in the best way.
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Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle homemade or store-bought caramel sauce on top of the chocolate-covered strawberries for an extra layer of indulgence. This adds a sweet, buttery richness that complements the chocolate perfectly.
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Fruit Fusion: Swap out the strawberries for other fruits like raspberries or banana slices for a delightful flavor twist. Each fruit brings its unique taste, allowing you to celebrate seasonal favorites.
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Coffee Boost: Mix in 1 tablespoon of instant coffee granules to the brownie batter for a subtle coffee flavor that enhances the chocolate. This simple addition can elevate your brownies to café-quality delights!
Make Ahead Options
These Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing taste! You can prepare the brownie base up to 3 days in advance by baking and storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. Additionally, you can wash and dry the strawberries up to 24 hours ahead of time; just keep them in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. When you’re ready to serve, simply dip the strawberries in melted milk chocolate and top the cooled brownies. This process ensures your dessert remains just as indulgent and delightful as when freshly made, letting you enjoy a delicious treat with minimal last-minute effort!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For chocolate-covered strawberry brownies, ensure your butter is softened but not melted to achieve a rich, fudgy texture.
- When mixing the dry ingredients, be careful not to overmix the batter to keep the brownies tender and soft.
- Use room temperature eggs for better incorporation into the batter, allowing for a smoother mix.
- Additionally, remember that brownies continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven, so check for doneness around the 25-minute mark for the best results.
Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting strawberries?
Absolutely! Choose ripe, juicy strawberries for the best flavor in your Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies. Look for vibrant red color and no dark spots or bruises. The tops should be green and fresh—avoid any that look wilted!
How should I store my brownies?
For optimal freshness, keep your brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to prolong their life, refrigerate them for up to a week but wrap them well to prevent drying out.
Can I freeze Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies?
Very! To freeze your brownies, cut them into squares and place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container. Alternatively, you can wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap and then foil. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply let them thaw at room temperature or microwave for 10-15 seconds to warm!
What can I do if my brownies are too dry?
If you find your brownies turned out dry, it could be due to overbaking or using too much flour. To remedy this, try incorporating an extra egg next time, which adds moisture. Also, keep an eye on their baking time; starting to check for doneness around the 25-minute mark can help retain a fudgy texture.
Are these brownies safe for pets?
No, be very cautious! Chocolate is toxic to dogs and cats, so ensure that the remnants of your Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies are kept out of reach of pets. It’s always best to treat our furry friends to pet-safe treats instead.
Can I adapt this recipe for allergies?
Absolutely! If you have allergies, consider substitutions: you can use almond flour for gluten-free brownies, and coconut oil can replace butter. For egg allergies, use a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) for binding.
Equipment
- Oven
- saucepan
- Mixing bowl
- Baking pan
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Parchment paper
Ingredients
For the Brownies
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar consider reducing for less sweetness
- 4 large eggs room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract use pure vanilla for best flavor
- 1 cup all-purpose flour sifted
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder high-quality cocoa preferred
- 1/2 teaspoon salt balances sweetness
- 1 cup chocolate chips mix dark and milk for flavor contrast
For the Topping
- 1 pound fresh strawberries ripe and juicy
- 8 ounces milk chocolate for dipping
Instructions
How to Make Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Stir in granulated sugar until smooth.
- Remove from heat and add eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until glossy.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
- Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet mixture until just combined.
- Fold in chocolate chips.
- Pour batter into a greased baking pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
- Allow brownies to cool completely in the pan.
- Melt milk chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Dip strawberries into melted chocolate, then place on parchment-lined tray to set.
- Once set, place chocolate-covered strawberries on top of cooled brownies.
