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This decadent chocolate covered strawberry brownie recipe transforms ordinary brownies into an elegant dessert that looks as impressive as it tastes. The combination of fudgy chocolate brownies topped with fresh strawberries and a glossy chocolate ganache creates a dessert that's perfect for special occasions or whenever you're craving something indulgent.
I first made these brownies for my sister's birthday gathering, and the plate was completely empty within minutes. The contrast between the rich, fudgy brownie base and the fresh, juicy strawberries creates a balance that chocolate lovers can't resist.
Ingredients
- Unsalted butter: Delivers a rich, clean flavor that forms the foundation of these brownies; use high quality for best results
- Granulated sugar: Provides the perfect sweetness and helps create that crackly brownie top
- Large eggs: Bind the ingredients while adding moisture and structure
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the chocolate flavor; choose pure over imitation for deeper flavor
- All-purpose flour: Gives structure without making the brownies too cakey; sift it for the smoothest texture
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: Provides intense chocolate flavor; Dutch processed works exceptionally well here
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the chocolate flavor
- Baking powder: Gives a slight lift without making the brownies too cakey
- Fresh strawberries: Add juicy brightness and visual appeal; choose ripe, fragrant berries for best flavor
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melt perfectly for the ganache topping
- Heavy cream: Creates a silky smooth ganache with the perfect consistency
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Heat your oven to 350°F and line your baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides for easy removal later. This seemingly simple step is crucial for perfectly shaped brownies that won't stick to the pan.
- Create the Foundation:
- Melt the butter completely in a large microwave safe bowl, then whisk in sugar until well combined. The sugar should begin dissolving into the warm butter, creating a gritty but smooth mixture that will help form that characteristic shiny brownie top.
- Add Wet Ingredients:
- Whisk in eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. This creates an emulsion that helps give brownies their fudgy texture. Add vanilla and blend thoroughly until the mixture becomes slightly lighter in color.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, sift the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder together to remove any lumps. Sifting is especially important for cocoa powder which tends to clump. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients, folding gently until just combined. Over mixing will develop gluten and create cakey rather than fudgy brownies.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Pour the thick batter into your prepared pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly into the corners. Bake for exactly 25 minutes, then check with a toothpick. The ideal brownie has moist crumbs clinging to the toothpick but no wet batter. Let cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- Prepare Fresh Strawberries:
- Wash strawberries thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels. Any moisture will prevent the ganache from adhering properly. Hull and halve each berry, then arrange cut side down in neat rows across the cooled brownies, pressing slightly into the surface.
- Create Luscious Ganache:
- Combine chocolate chips and heavy cream in a microwave safe bowl. Heat in 30 second intervals, stirring thoroughly between each until completely smooth. This slow melting prevents the chocolate from seizing or becoming grainy. The ganache should be glossy and pourable but not too hot.
- Complete the Masterpiece:
- Pour the warm ganache evenly over the strawberry topped brownies, using an offset spatula to guide it into an even layer that covers all the berries. The ganache will enrobe the strawberries while filling in the gaps between them.
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You Must Know
- These brownies have the perfect balance of sweetness and richness, making them satisfying without being overwhelming
- The parchment paper sling makes removal and cutting incredibly easy
- Fresh strawberries make this a seasonal treat best made when berries are at their peak
- For optimal texture refrigerate just until the ganache sets about 1 hour
The unsweetened cocoa powder is truly the secret weapon in this recipe. I discovered that using Dutch processed cocoa creates an even deeper chocolate flavor that perfectly complements the fresh strawberries. My nephew once declared these brownies better than any bakery dessert, and now they're requested at every family gathering.
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Serving Suggestions
These brownies make a stunning dessert served on their own, but they become even more special with a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream on the side. For an elevated presentation, dust the serving plate with a little cocoa powder and add a few small mint leaves as garnish. The contrast between the warm brownie, cool cream, and fresh berries creates a multisensory experience your guests will remember.
Storage Tips
These brownies will keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The strawberries are freshest on the first day, but the dessert remains delicious throughout. For the best texture, let sliced brownies come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving from the refrigerator. I don't recommend freezing these brownies as the texture of the strawberries becomes compromised during thawing.
Make Ahead Options
If you need to prepare these in advance, consider making the brownie base up to two days ahead and storing it tightly wrapped at room temperature. Add the strawberries and ganache topping within a few hours of serving for the freshest result. You can also prepare the ganache ahead of time and gently reheat it in the microwave at 50% power until just pourable.
Variation Ideas
While the classic recipe is perfect as is, you can create seasonal variations by incorporating different fruit. During summer, fresh raspberries or blackberries make excellent alternatives to strawberries. For a holiday version, add a teaspoon of peppermint extract to the ganache and sprinkle with crushed candy canes. You can also elevate the brownies by adding a layer of sweetened cream cheese between the brownie base and the strawberries.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Although fresh strawberries work best for this recipe, you can use frozen strawberries if necessary. Be sure to thaw and drain them completely to avoid extra moisture affecting the brownies.
- → Can I substitute the semi-sweet chocolate chips?
Yes, you can use dark chocolate or milk chocolate chips depending on your sweetness preference. Keep in mind that different chocolates will slightly alter the flavor.
- → How should I store the brownies?
Store the brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Allow the brownies to reach room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
- → Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, these brownies can be made a day ahead. Prepare and refrigerate them, keeping them chilled until serving. This allows the flavors to meld wonderfully.
- → What can I use instead of heavy cream for the ganache?
If heavy cream is unavailable, use full-fat coconut milk or half-and-half as a substitute for a similar consistency and richness.