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This decadent chocolate covered strawberry brownie recipe combines the rich, fudgy goodness of homemade brownies with the bright freshness of strawberries and a smooth chocolate ganache topping. It's the perfect dessert for special occasions or whenever you need a chocolate fix with a fruity twist.
I first made these brownies for my sister's birthday celebration, and they've become our family's most requested dessert. The combination of warm chocolate with cool strawberries creates a sensory experience that never fails to impress guests.
Ingredients
- Unsalted butter: Provides richness and helps create that perfect fudgy texture. Make sure it's at room temperature for easy mixing
- Granulated sugar: Balances the cocoa without overpowering it. The amount seems high but creates the perfect sweetness level
- Large eggs: Act as the binding agent and contribute to the brownies' structure
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the chocolate flavor. Use pure extract for the best taste
- All-purpose flour: Gives just enough structure while keeping brownies dense and fudgy
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: Is the heart of the chocolate flavor. Dutch processed gives a smoother taste
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness
- Baking powder: Provides just a slight rise to keep the texture perfect
- Fresh strawberries: Add juicy freshness and visual appeal. Choose firm, bright red berries
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melt beautifully for the ganache. Higher quality chips make a difference
- Heavy cream: Creates the silky ganache texture. Full fat is essential here
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare your baking environment:
- Preheat your oven to exactly 350°F and line your baking pan with parchment paper, leaving enough overhang on two sides to create handles. This makes removal and cutting much easier later. The parchment prevents any sticking and preserves the perfect edges.
- Create the brownie base:
- Melt butter completely in a microwave using 30 second intervals, then whisk in sugar until it forms a grainy paste. The mixture should be warm but not hot before adding eggs one at a time, whisking thoroughly between each addition. This creates the shiny top crust brownies are famous for. Add vanilla and mix until the batter is smooth and slightly thickened.
- Combine the dry ingredients:
- Sift the flour, cocoa powder, salt and baking powder together in a separate bowl. This removes any lumps and ensures even distribution of leavening agents. The cocoa powder tends to clump, so don't skip this step for the smoothest result.
- Combine wet and dry mixtures:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in three additions, folding gently with a spatula just until no dry streaks remain. Overmixing will create tough brownies, so stop as soon as everything is incorporated. The batter will be thick and glossy.
- Bake to perfection:
- Spread the batter evenly in your prepared pan, taking care to push it into the corners. Bake for exactly 25 minutes, then check by inserting a toothpick in the center. It should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. This typically takes between 25 to 30 minutes total. Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before adding toppings.
- Prepare and arrange strawberries:
- Once brownies are completely cool, hull and halve fresh strawberries, then arrange them cut side down in rows across the surface. The strawberries should be completely dry to prevent moisture from affecting the ganache.
- Create silky ganache:
- Combine chocolate chips and heavy cream in a microwave safe bowl. Heat in 30 second intervals, stirring thoroughly between each until completely smooth. The ganache should be pourable but not too hot. Let it cool slightly if needed before pouring.
- Assemble the final dessert:
- Pour the ganache evenly over the arranged strawberries, using an offset spatula to ensure complete coverage. The warm ganache will settle around the strawberries, creating a beautiful finish. Work quickly before the ganache begins to set.
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The cocoa powder is truly the star ingredient in this recipe. After testing multiple brands, I found that a high quality Dutch processed cocoa makes a remarkable difference in the depth of flavor. My grandmother always said that chocolate desserts are only as good as the cocoa you use, and this recipe proves her right every time.
Storage Tips
These brownies will keep for up to 3 days in the refrigerator in an airtight container. The cold temperature actually enhances the fudgy texture and keeps the strawberries fresh. Let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving for the best flavor experience. I don't recommend freezing these brownies as the strawberries will become mushy upon thawing, affecting both texture and appearance.
Make Ahead Options
You can prepare the brownies up to two days in advance and add the strawberries and ganache just before serving. The brownie base freezes beautifully for up to 3 months when wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then top with fresh strawberries and freshly made ganache. This makes them perfect for planning ahead for special occasions.
Serving Suggestions
These brownies make a stunning centerpiece for any dessert table. For an elevated presentation, place them on a white platter and dust the edges lightly with powdered sugar. Serve with a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream on the side or a small scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. For a dinner party, cut them into smaller bite sized pieces and serve on a tiered stand alongside coffee or champagne.
Variation Ideas
While strawberries are the classic pairing, you can customize this recipe with raspberries or a combination of mixed berries for a different flavor profile. For a more intense chocolate experience, add a half cup of chocolate chips to the brownie batter before baking. During the holiday season, I like to add a teaspoon of peppermint extract to the ganache for a festive twist that everyone loves.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I ensure fudgy brownies?
To ensure fudgy brownies, avoid overbaking. Check with a toothpick; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not clean.
- → Can I use frozen strawberries?
Fresh strawberries are best for this recipe, but you can use frozen ones. Thaw and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture.
- → How do I make the ganache silky smooth?
Microwave the chocolate chips and cream in short intervals, stirring between each until the mixture is perfectly melted and smooth.
- → What is the secret to evenly spreading the ganache?
Pour the ganache slowly over the strawberries and use an offset spatula to spread it evenly across the dessert.
- → How do I store these brownies?
Store the brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for the best freshness and flavor.