The sound of sizzling chocolate chips melting into creamy perfection pulls me into my happy place every time I make these Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies. With their fudgy base showcasing the richness of chocolate and a vibrant topping of strawberries enveloped in glossy ganache, they are nothing short of a delightful indulgence. Best of all, this recipe is a breeze to prepare, making it the ideal treat for everything from surprise gatherings to cozy nights in.
Whether you’re treating a loved one on Valentine’s Day or simply satisfying your sweet tooth after a long day, these brownies blend the luxuriousness of dessert with the freshness of ripe strawberries. Imagine each bite delivering a burst of flavor that dances between rich and sweet, all while being so easy to whip up! Trust me—once you’ve tasted these beauties, you’ll want to make them your go-to dessert for any occasion.
Why are Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies a must-try?
Decadence in Every Bite: These brownies combine fudgy chocolate with fresh strawberries for an irresistible flavor experience.
Quick & Easy: Preparing this dessert is a breeze—great for beginners and busy chefs alike!
Impressive Presentation: The glossy ganache and vibrant strawberries create a stunning treat that will wow your guests.
Versatile Treat: Perfect for birthdays, Valentine’s Day, or a cozy night in, they fit every occasion.
Lasting Freshness: Enjoy them right away or store for up to two days for a delightful treat anytime—you won’t regret it!
Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownie Ingredients
For the Brownie Base
- Brownie Mix – Use a box mix for convenience, or make from scratch for a homemade touch.
- Eggs – Essential for binding the ingredients together, providing the perfect fudgy texture.
- Vegetable Oil – Adds moisture to the brownies; can be substituted with melted butter for extra richness.
For the Topping
- Strawberries – Fresh fruit provides natural sweetness and a tart contrast to the chocolate; stems removed and cut in half for easy arrangement.
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Form the ganache, essential for a rich chocolate taste; consider mixing with dark chocolate for depth if desired.
- Heavy Cream – Used in ganache for a creamy texture that ensures smoothness; can substitute with 3/4 cup milk mixed with 1/4 cup melted butter if heavy cream is unavailable—essential for stabilizing the ganache.
Optional Garnishes
- Crushed Nuts – For nut lovers, sprinkle on top of the ganache before chilling for an added crunch.
- Additional Strawberries – Reserve a few for decoration after cutting, enhancing the visual appeal of your Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies.
How to Make Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
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Prepare the Brownies: In an 8″x8″ baking dish, mix and bake the brownie mix according to the package instructions. Let them cool completely before adding toppings. This will give you a fudgy base that holds together beautifully.
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Slice the Strawberries: Carefully remove the stems and slice the fresh strawberries in half lengthwise. Arrange them, cut side up, on the cooled brownie layer. This adds a nice pop of color and flavor.
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Make the Ganache: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and heavy cream. Melt in the microwave in increments (25 seconds, then 20 seconds), stirring well after each round until the mixture is smooth and glossy. This is the rich topping you’ve been waiting for!
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Combine: Pour the velvety ganache evenly over the strawberries, ensuring they’re all thoroughly covered. This step brings everything together for that delectable finish.
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Chill & Serve: Refrigerate for 20-30 minutes to allow the ganache to set. Once firm, slice into squares and serve. Enjoy these delightful brownies fresh on the same day, as the berries can add moisture over time.
Optional: Sprinkle crushed nuts on top of the ganache for an added crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
Room Temperature: These brownies are best enjoyed fresh, but you can keep them at room temperature for up to 4 hours if serving immediately.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days to retain freshness. Be cautious, as the strawberries may add moisture over time.
Freezer: Although not recommended due to the strawberries, if needed, freeze uncut brownies (without strawberries) for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating: If you’d like to warm a brownie, microwave it for 10-15 seconds. Add fresh strawberries afterward for a vibrant touch when serving.
Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies Variations
Feel free to play around and make these delightful brownies uniquely yours with these fun twists!
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Berry Bonanza: Swap strawberries for your favorite berries like raspberries or blueberries for a colorful fruit medley.
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Nutty Delight: Add crushed nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, on top of the ganache before chilling for a satisfying crunch.
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Minty Fresh: Incorporate a few drops of peppermint extract into the ganache for a refreshing chocolate-mint experience.
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Spicy Kick: Sprinkle a dash of cayenne pepper into the ganache for a surprising heat that beautifully complements the sweet chocolate.
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Caramel Drizzle: After the ganache sets, add a drizzle of caramel sauce for an indulgent twist that adds extra sweetness.
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Vegan Version: Use a vegan brownie mix, coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and dairy-free chocolate to make this treat plant-based.
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Almond Bliss: Mix almond extract into the ganache for a rich, nutty flavor that elevates the chocolate even more.
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Zesty Citrus: Add a touch of orange zest to the brownie mix for a burst of citrus that pairs wonderfully with the chocolate and strawberries.
Let your creativity run wild with these variations, and savor the journey of flavor as you indulge in your personalized Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies!
Expert Tips for Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
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Slowly Melt Chocolate: Melt the chocolate chips and cream slowly to prevent burning. Stir continuously for a silky-smooth ganache.
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Avoid Soggy Brownies: Place strawberries carefully to prevent moisture from seeping into the brownies, keeping them firm and delightful.
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Chill Before Cutting: Allow the ganache to set properly in the fridge before slicing; it helps maintain clean cuts and a beautiful presentation.
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Double Up: If you’re hosting a crowd, consider making a double batch of Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies using a 13″x9″ pan to ensure everyone gets a taste!
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Freshness Tip: These brownies are best consumed fresh, but if you must, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.
Make Ahead Options
These Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies are perfect for meal prep! To save time, bake your brownie base up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also slice the strawberries and store them covered in the refrigerator, ready for assembly whenever you’re set to serve. For the ganache, prepare it and pour it over the strawberries right before serving to maintain that glossy finish—this ensures it stays beautifully firm. When you’re ready to enjoy these decadent brownies, simply refrigerate them for 20-30 minutes to set the ganache before slicing and serving. This way, you can enjoy a stunning dessert with minimal effort on your busy days!
What to Serve with Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies?
For a delightful dessert experience, consider complementing this rich treat with some scrumptious pairings.
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Fresh Whipped Cream: The airy texture of whipped cream enhances each bite, adding a lightness that balances the rich brownies.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melting against the warm brownies creates a heavenly contrast that you won’t forget.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle some melted chocolate over the brownies for an extra layer of flair and indulgence; it enhances the chocolate flavor beautifully.
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Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: Continue the theme! These delightful bites provide a fresh twist that complements the brownies with their sweet and tart profile.
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Espresso or Coffee: A fresh cup of coffee or espresso brings out the chocolate’s depth, creating a comforting experience—perfect for coffee lovers!
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Mint Tea: The refreshing herbal notes of mint tea cleanse the palate, allowing the sweetness of the brownies to shine through after each sip.
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Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad offers a light, juicy contrast that balances out the density of the brownies, giving you a well-rounded dessert.
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Cheese Plate: Serve with a variety of cheeses for a sweet and savory twist; sharp cheeses can offset the sweetness beautifully.
Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies Recipe FAQs
What type of strawberries should I use for my brownies?
Absolutely! Look for fresh, ripe strawberries without dark spots or blemishes for the best flavor. They should be bright red and firm to the touch, which indicates sweetness. You want strawberries that will not only taste great but also hold up well when layered on your brownies.
How should I store leftover Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies?
To keep your brownies delicious, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This prevents them from drying out while allowing the flavors to meld together. Just be aware that the strawberries may add some moisture, which can affect the brownie texture slightly.
Can I freeze Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies?
Very! While I recommend freezing uncut brownies without the strawberries for the best quality, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. To freeze, wrap the brownies tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. If you freeze them with strawberries, the texture will change upon thawing.
What do I do if my ganache isn’t smooth?
It’s easy to fix! If your ganache ends up with lumps, try reheating it gently. Place the mixture in the microwave in 10-second intervals, stirring well between each until it’s silky and glossy again. You can also add a splash of warm heavy cream and stir until smooth.
Are Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies suitable for anyone with allergies?
Very much so! Since this recipe includes dairy and can contain gluten depending on the brownie mix used, it’s important to check for allergies. For gluten-free alternatives, you can use a gluten-free brownie mix. Always double-check your specific ingredients for any additional allergens, especially if you’re serving them to guests.
Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies: Irresistibly Decadent Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In an 8x8 baking dish, mix and bake the brownie mix according to the package instructions. Let them cool completely before adding toppings.
- Carefully remove the stems and slice the fresh strawberries in half lengthwise. Arrange them, cut side up, on the cooled brownie layer.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and heavy cream. Melt in the microwave in increments, stirring after each round until smooth.
- Pour the ganache evenly over the strawberries, ensuring they're all thoroughly covered.
- Refrigerate for 20-30 minutes to allow the ganache to set. Once firm, slice into squares and serve.