If there’s one dessert that perfectly encompasses indulgence, it has to be the Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies. Imagine the lusciousness of a fudgy brownie meeting the romance of chocolate-covered strawberries – a pairing made in dessert heaven.
This delightful treat holds a special place in my heart, especially when crafting something memorable for Valentine’s Day or a cherished celebration. What I’ll guide you through is not just a recipe but a passageway to dessert nirvana, where each bite promises to be as exquisite as the last.
Throughout this article, I’ll break down every decadent step so you can bring this enchanting dessert to life in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
For the Fudgy Brownies:
- 1⅓ cups (7 oz or 200 g) semisweet or bittersweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup (113 g or 1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature and cut into quarters
- 3 tablespoons (18 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1¼ cups (250 g) granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Chocolate Ganache Topping:
- 2 cups (150 g) fresh strawberries, halved
- 2 cups (300 g) semisweet or bittersweet chocolate chips
- 6 tablespoons (90 ml or 3 oz) heavy cream, room temperature
Instructions:
Step 1 – Prepare the oven and pan
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang on two sides to make it easy to lift the brownies out later.
Step 2 – Make the brownie batter
In a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl, melt 1⅓ cups chocolate chips with ½ cup unsalted butter, stirring until smooth. Whisk in 3 tablespoons cocoa powder and let the mixture cool slightly.
In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 large eggs, 1¼ cups granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon salt until fully combined. Slowly whisk the warm chocolate mixture into the egg mixture until smooth. Fold in 1 cup all-purpose flour just until no streaks remain—do not overmix.
Step 3 – Bake the brownies
Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smooth the top, and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Step 4 – Add strawberries and ganache
Once the brownies are cool, arrange 2 cups of halved strawberries, cut-side down, evenly over the top. In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, heat 6 tablespoons heavy cream until just steaming.
Remove from heat, add 2 cups chocolate chips, and let sit for 1 minute. Stir until smooth and glossy, then pour the ganache over the strawberries, spreading it evenly to fully cover them.
Step 5 – Set, slice, and serve
Let the ganache set at room temperature, or chill the pan in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes until firm. Lift the brownies out using the parchment paper, slice into 1-inch squares, and serve. Enjoy chilled for a firmer texture or at room temperature for a softer bite.
Tips and Variations:
Using Store-Bought Brownie Mix
- For a quicker alternative, a store-bought brownie mix can be used to save time without sacrificing flavor. It caters to those spontaneous dessert cravings and results in equally delightful brownies.
Substituting Heavy Cream in Ganache
- Heavy cream alternatives include mixing milk and melted butter, which can provide a similar richness if you run out of cream.
Choosing the Right Chocolate
- Whether you choose semi-sweet, bittersweet, or dark chocolate, each type offers unique sweetness and richness to the ganache, allowing you to personalize flavor profiles to suit every palate.
Common Questions:
Can I Use Fresh Strawberries in Different Ways?
- If you’re working with large strawberries, cut them into smaller bites to ensure even coverage and easier slicing of the brownies.
How to Ensure the Ganache Sets Properly
- For a smooth, glossy ganache, let it cool slightly before pouring over the strawberries, ensuring a perfect setting every time.
Storage and Shelf Life
- Store these brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for a week-long delectable treat.
Final Thoughts
In summary, this delectable Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies recipe is an excellent addition to any culinary repertoire. Its ingredients bring together a blend of traditional methods while allowing room for personal tweaks, each step aiming to provide an indulgent dessert.
I encourage you to experiment and make this recipe your own, transforming typical celebrations or ordinary days into something memorable. Remember, crafting these desserts is more than baking – it’s an expression of love, a testament to the power of simple ingredients turned into extraordinary delicacies.
