Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies are an amazing dessert that combines rich flavors and decadent textures. These brownies offer a unique twist on the classic favorite, featuring the delightful combination of chocolate and fresh strawberries. They serve not only to satisfy your sweet tooth but also to impress your family and friends with their stunning appearance. Imagine indulging in a fudgy brownie topped with luscious chocolate ganache and adorned with fresh, juicy strawberries. This dessert is perfect for any occasion, from birthday parties to casual family gatherings.
When you take that first bite of a Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownie, you’ll experience a blend of rich chocolate and the refreshing taste of strawberries that dance across your palate. The texture is a delightful combination of soft, fudgy brownies and smooth chocolate, creating a dessert experience like no other. This recipe is not just about taste; it’s an incredible journey of flavors that makes every moment special.
In this guide, we will explore why this recipe is a favorite, how to prepare it, and tips for presenting your delicious creation. No matter your baking experience, you will find success in creating these indulgent treats. Let’s dive right into the mouthwatering world of Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies are a crowd-pleaser, and here’s why you’ll fall head over heels for this recipe:
1. Decadent Flavor: The pairing of rich chocolate and fresh strawberries creates an irresistible taste sensation.
2. Impressive Presentation: These brownies look amazing, making them perfect for gatherings or special occasions.
3. Simple Ingredients: You likely already have many of the needed ingredients at home, making this recipe accessible.
4. Versatile Dessert: You can customize the brownies with various toppings for added flair, like nuts or caramel drizzle.
5. Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, both beginner and experienced bakers can craft these brownies with ease.
6. Perfect for Sharing: The portion sizes are ideal for sharing but are also easy to indulge in alone!
With these reasons in mind, it’s easy to see why this dessert has become a favorite in many homes. Each brownie is a delightful celebration of chocolate and strawberries that leads to sheer bliss.
Preparation and Cooking Time
Making Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies is both quick and enjoyable. Here’s the breakdown of time needed for preparation and cooking:
– Preparation Time: 20 minutes
– Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
– Cooling Time: 30 minutes
Total time for the delicious experience is roughly one hour and twenty minutes. This easy timeline makes it achievable for any home baker, regardless of skill level.
Ingredients
– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 12–15 fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
– 1 cup chocolate ganache or melting chocolate for topping
Step-by-Step Instructions
Creating Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies is simple when you follow these steps:
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mix the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, combine melted butter and granulated sugar. Mix until well combined and smooth.
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract until full combined.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
5. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until smooth and no lumps remain. Fold in the chocolate chips.
6. Pour Batter: Spread the brownie batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
7. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
8. Cool the Brownies: Remove from the oven and allow brownies to cool in the pan for about 30 minutes.
9. Prepare the Topping: While the brownies are cooling, melt the chocolate ganache or melting chocolate according to package instructions. Allow it to cool slightly until it just begins to thicken.
10. Add Strawberries: Once cooled, gently press halved strawberries onto the top of the brownies, then pour the melted chocolate over the top, covering the strawberries.
11. Chill: Refrigerate the brownies for at least 30 minutes, allowing the chocolate to set.
These steps will lead you to create fantastic Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies that are sure to wow your guests!
How to Serve
When it comes to serving your Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies, here are some tips to elevate the experience:
1. Presentation: Arrange the brownies on a decorative platter to showcase their beautiful garnishes.
2. Garnishing: Finish with a dusting of powdered sugar for added elegance, or drizzle with additional melted chocolate.
3. Pairing: Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream to balance the richness.
4. Slice Sizes: Cut brownies into generous squares. Consider offering smaller portions to encourage guests to enjoy more than one piece.
5. Beverage Suggestions: These brownies pair wonderfully with coffee, dessert wines, or even a glass of chilled milk for a classic treat.
With these serving ideas, you can turn your Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies into an irresistible dessert that everyone will love. Happy baking!
Additional Tips
– Use Quality Strawberries: Select ripe, fresh strawberries for the best flavor. They should be firm yet slightly soft to the touch.
– Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the brownies in the oven. Overbaking can lead to dry brownies, which detracts from their fudginess.
– Adjust Ganache Consistency: If your chocolate ganache is too thick, add a small amount of warm cream until you reach the desired pourable consistency.
Recipe Variation
Feel free to experiment with these variations to elevate your Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies:
1. Mint Chocolate Twist: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the brownie batter for a minty refresh.
2. White Chocolate Drizzle: Use white chocolate to drizzle atop the ganache for a contrast in flavor and beautiful presentation.
3. Other Fruits: Try adding different fruits like raspberries or blueberries, which pair wonderfully with chocolate.
Freezing and Storage
– Storage: Keep your Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature if consumed within a few days. If not, it’s best to refrigerate them to maintain freshness.
– Freezing: For longer storage, wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw them in the fridge or at room temperature before serving.
Special Equipment
To effectively make Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies, gather the following essential tools:
– Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are vital for the best results.
– Mixing Bowls: Ensure you have a few different sizes for mixing ingredients smoothly.
– 9×13 Inch Baking Pan: This size gives the brownies their signature shape.
– Parchment Paper: Lining the baking pan with parchment makes for easy brownie removal.
– Microwave-Safe Bowl: For melting the ganache or chocolate without burning it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, but ensure they are well-drained to avoid excess moisture.
How do I know if my brownies are done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they are ready.
Can I add nuts to the brownies?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans can add delightful crunch.
Is it okay to prepare the brownies a day in advance?
Yes, making them ahead can enhance the flavors. Just refrigerate them after topping with chocolate.
What can I use instead of chocolate ganache?
You can use store-bought chocolate fudge or even a rich chocolate icing as an alternative.
Conclusion
Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies bring together the joy of chocolate and the goodness of strawberries into a mouthwatering dessert. With their fudgy texture and incredible flavor, they are bound to be a hit at any gathering. The recipe is straightforward and allows for various adjustments and substitutions, ensuring you can make it your own. Enjoy baking these delightful treats and sharing them with friends and family!
Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 8 minute
Ingredients
– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 12–15 fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
– 1 cup chocolate ganache or melting chocolate for topping
Instructions
Creating Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies is simple when you follow these steps:
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mix the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, combine melted butter and granulated sugar. Mix until well combined and smooth.
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract until full combined.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
5. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until smooth and no lumps remain. Fold in the chocolate chips.
6. Pour Batter: Spread the brownie batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
7. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
8. Cool the Brownies: Remove from the oven and allow brownies to cool in the pan for about 30 minutes.
9. Prepare the Topping: While the brownies are cooling, melt the chocolate ganache or melting chocolate according to package instructions. Allow it to cool slightly until it just begins to thicken.
10. Add Strawberries: Once cooled, gently press halved strawberries onto the top of the brownies, then pour the melted chocolate over the top, covering the strawberries.
11. Chill: Refrigerate the brownies for at least 30 minutes, allowing the chocolate to set.
These steps will lead you to create fantastic Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies that are sure to wow your guests!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Fat: 14g
- Protein: 4g