If you’re a fan of the classic chocolate-dipped strawberry but want something with a swoon-worthy upgrade, these Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies are your dream dessert! Picture this: a rich, fudgy layer of brownies, juicy strawberries nestled on top, and everything blanketed with a smooth, glossy chocolate ganache. Every bite is a celebration of contrasting textures and bold flavors. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just to treat yourself, this is one recipe that makes everyone pause for a joyful moment.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
For Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies, you won’t need an endless shopping list—just thoughtfully chosen staples and a little love. Each ingredient brings undeniable character: chocolate delivers depth, strawberries burst with freshness, and ganache ties everything together with sheer decadence.
- Brownie mix (18–20 oz box): Your shortcut to irresistibly rich and fudgy brownies, saving time without sacrificing flavor.
- Eggs, oil, and water (per box instructions): These act as binders and moist-makers, ensuring your brownies have the perfect, chewy crumb.
- Fresh strawberries (1 lb, hulled and sliced): Choose firm, ripe berries for that perfect burst of sweet-tart goodness in every bite.
- Semisweet chocolate chips (1 1/2 cups): These melt down into a silky ganache, balancing sweetness and rich cocoa flavor.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Adds luscious creaminess for the ganache, making it ultra-smooth and glossy.
- Vanilla extract (1/2 tsp): Enhances both the chocolate and strawberry flavors, adding a subtle warmth.
- Pinch of salt: Just a dash sharpens the chocolate’s flavor and brings out complex nuances.
How to Make Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies
Step 1: Prep the Baking Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it for easy release—no worries about stubborn brownies sticking. Setting up the pan properly makes slicing later on a total breeze.
Step 2: Mix and Bake the Brownies
Prepare your brownie batter according to package directions, mixing in those eggs, oil, and water until you get a velvety, chocolatey batter. Pour it evenly into your prepared pan, smoothing out the top, and slide it into the oven. Bake for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center emerges with just a few moist crumbs. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan—this is a must!
Step 3: Layer the Strawberries
While the brownies cool, hull and slice your strawberries. Once the brownies are completely chilled, arrange the strawberries evenly on top, creating a pretty patchwork. The fresh berries infuse every square with juicy flavor and gorgeous color.
Step 4: Create That Dreamy Ganache
To make the chocolate ganache, gently heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat. As soon as it starts to simmer, take it off the heat and add the chocolate chips, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Let everything sit undisturbed for 2 minutes, allowing the chocolate to soften, then stir until it’s completely smooth and shiny.
Step 5: Assemble and Chill
Pour that luscious ganache right over the strawberry layer, spreading it gently so you cover every berry. Pop the pan into the fridge for at least an hour—patience pays off as the ganache firms up into a glistening, sliceable topping. Once set, cut into squares and get ready for your Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies moment!
How to Serve Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies
Garnishes
Dress things up with extra sliced strawberries, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or even a few chocolate shavings for a gorgeous finish. If you’re feeling fancy, add a dollop of freshly whipped cream and a tiny mint sprig.
Side Dishes
Pair Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a simple bowl of mixed berries. A cup of espresso or a glass of cold milk is also a delightful way to balance out all that chocolate bliss.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut your brownies into heart shapes for Valentine’s Day, or stack mini squares on a tiered dessert tray for a party. For an elegant touch, drizzle with extra ganache and serve on individual plates with a fork alongside a few fresh berries.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The strawberries keep their freshness, and the ganache stays smooth for up to 3 days. Don’t forget to place parchment or wax paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing
If you’d like to plan ahead, you can freeze these brownies, though the texture of the strawberries may soften a touch upon thawing. Wrap brownies tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container; they’ll keep for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.
Reheating
For a softer bite, you can let refrigerated brownies sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving. If you’re craving a hint of warmth, microwave a brownie square for 5 to 10 seconds—just enough to relax the chocolate layer without melting the berries.
FAQs
Can I use homemade brownie batter instead of boxed mix?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite homemade recipe for the base of these Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies. Just aim for a batter that yields dense, fudgy results for the best textural contrast with the strawberries and ganache.
What’s the best way to slice the brownies cleanly?
For neat slices, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts. This helps glide through the layers, especially the chocolate ganache, without smearing.
Can I swap the chocolate chips for another type?
You can! Dark, milk, or even white chocolate chips work for the ganache layer. Just know that sweeter chocolates like milk or white will change the flavor profile and intensity.
Will frozen strawberries work if fresh aren’t available?
It’s best to stick with fresh, firm strawberries for Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies, as frozen ones tend to release more moisture, which can make the brownies soggy.
Is chilling necessary before serving?
Yes, chilling ensures the chocolate ganache sets perfectly and allows the flavors and textures to meld. If you’re short on time, a minimum of 1 hour in the fridge is essential for the best experience.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to experience Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies! This recipe offers just the right balance of gooey, fruity, and decadent. Have fun with it, share with someone you love, and savor every bite—trust me, there won’t be leftovers for long!
Print
Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes (includes chilling)
- Yield: 16 brownies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the decadent goodness of Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies with this easy-to-follow recipe. Moist brownies topped with fresh strawberries and a rich chocolate ganache, these treats are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Brownie Mix:
1 box (18–20 oz) brownie mix, plus ingredients listed on the box (typically eggs, oil, and water)
Strawberry Layer:
1 lb fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
Chocolate Ganache:
1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips, 1/2 cup heavy cream, 1/2 tsp vanilla extract, pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease.
- Make Brownies: Prepare brownie batter as directed on the box. Bake for 25-30 minutes until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs. Cool completely.
- Add Strawberries: Layer sliced strawberries over the brownies.
- Make Ganache: Heat cream until simmering, then add chocolate, vanilla, and salt. Stir until smooth.
- Top with Ganache: Pour ganache over strawberries and spread evenly. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Serve: Cut into squares and enjoy chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- Use fresh, firm strawberries to prevent excess moisture.
- For richer flavor, add 1/2 tsp espresso powder to the brownie batter.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 120 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 29 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg
