There’s something truly enchanting about the combination of chocolate and strawberries, a classic duo that never fails to bring a smile. As I stood in my kitchen, enjoying the delightful scent of fresh strawberries, it hit me—what if I could marry that sweetness with rich, fudgy brownies? A few experiments later, I landed on the perfect recipe: Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies.
These decadent treats are more than just a sweet indulgence; they effortlessly blend the gooey comfort of brownies with the vibrant freshness of strawberries, creating a masterpiece that impresses every time. The best part? You can whip them up in just under an hour! Whether it’s a cozy night in or a last-minute gathering, these brownies are bound to become a beloved staple in your culinary repertoire. Ready to dive into a world of chocolatey bliss? Let’s get started!
Why You'll Love This Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
- This recipe is incredibly easy to make, allowing even novice bakers to create something impressive with minimal effort.
- The harmonious blend of rich chocolate and fresh strawberries makes each bite a flavor explosion that you won’t be able to resist.
- These brownies are versatile enough to be served at any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner or an elegant gathering with friends.
- With a total preparation time of just 45 minutes, you can satisfy your sweet tooth in no time while leaving everyone craving more.
Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies Ingredients
• Dive into the delightful flavors with these simple ingredients!
For the Brownie Base
- All-purpose flour – a vital component that gives structure to your brownies.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder – adds a rich chocolate flavor, making these brownies irresistible.
- Granulated sugar – brings sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the brownies.
- Large eggs – help bind the ingredients together for that fudgy texture.
- Unsalted butter – gives a rich, creamy base for a luscious brownie experience.
For the Chocolate Strawberry Delight
- Fresh strawberries, chopped – the star of the show; their sweet freshness balances the rich brownie.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips – incorporate extra chocolatey goodness, elevating your Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies to a new level.
These ingredients come together to create something truly special, perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings!
How to Make Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for ensuring your brownies bake evenly and come out with the perfect fudgy texture. Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
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Whisk together the dry ingredients in a mixing bowl. Combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, and 1 cup of granulated sugar until they’re well-blended. This mix provides the foundation for your chocolatey delight!
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Melt the unsalted butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Let it cool slightly, then mix in 2 large eggs until the mixture is smooth and glossy. This will add richness to your brownies, enhancing their fudgy texture.
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Combine the wet and dry ingredients gently. Slowly pour the egg and butter mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring until just mixed; be careful not to overmix! Then, fold in the chopped fresh strawberries and semi-sweet chocolate chips for that signature burst of flavor.
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Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan. Spread it evenly with a spatula, ensuring every corner is filled. Bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean—this indicates those irresistible fudgy brownies are ready to shine.
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Cool the brownies slightly in the pan before serving. This will help them set and make them easier to cut into squares. Enjoy the delightful aroma as they cool down!
Optional: Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant touch before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
Room Temperature: Keep brownies in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring they stay moist and delicious.
Fridge: For longer freshness, store brownies in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just be aware that chilling may affect their fudginess.
Freezer: Wrap brownies individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying!
Reheating: To enjoy warm brownies, microwave a slice for about 10-15 seconds. This brings back the gooeyness that makes Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies so delightful!
Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies Variations
Get ready to elevate your brownies with these delightful twists that’ll make your taste buds dance!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend for a lovely chewy bite that everyone can enjoy.
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Lower Sugar: Use coconut sugar or a sugar substitute to reduce the sweetness without compromising flavor. This alternative brings a hint of caramel, making each mouthful intriguing.
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Nutty Crunch: Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a satisfying crunch that pairs beautifully with the soft brownies. The nuttiness will complement the fruity sweetness perfectly.
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Minty Fresh: Add a few drops of peppermint extract into the batter for a refreshing twist that brightens the chocolate flavor. It’s like a garden party in your mouth!
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Dairy-Free: Swap out butter for coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate chips. This simple substitution opens the door to a delightful treat, perfect for dairy-sensitive pals!
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Caramel Swirl: Drizzle some caramel sauce over the batter before baking for an indulgent layer of flavor that steals the show. It adds a fun surprise with each bite, turning good brownies into great ones!
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Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of chili powder for a surprisingly delightful heat that pairs wonderfully with the chocolate. It’s a bold choice that will leave your friends talking!
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Fruit Fusion: Use raspberries or blueberries instead of strawberries for a different yet equally delicious fruity note. The burst of flavors will surprise and delight your guests with every slice!
Embrace your creativity and let these variations guide you to create your unique chocolate masterpiece!
What to Serve with Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies?
Imagine a gathering with family and friends, where the rich aroma of chocolate wafts through the air, inviting everyone to indulge in something truly special.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: This classic pairing provides a creamy contrast to the fudgy brownies, enhancing the overall dessert experience. The cold, smooth ice cream perfectly complements the warm, rich chocolate, creating a delightful temperature contrast.
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Whipped Cream: A light, airy topping that adds a silky touch to each bite. It’s like a fluffy hug for your chocolate goodness, amplifying the sweetness without overpowering the strawberries.
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Fresh Berries Salad: A vibrant medley of mixed berries adds a refreshing element. The tartness of the berries balances the richness of the brownies, making each mouthful a blissful explosion of flavors.
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Coffee or Espresso: The boldness of coffee perfectly cuts through the sweetness of the brownies. Sipping a warm cup alongside these chocolate delights will elevate your dessert experience to café-like sophistication.
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Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: For the ultimate chocoholic, drizzling some extra chocolate sauce over the brownies amplifies the chocolatey bliss. This luxuriant addition makes every bite feel truly indulgent!
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Mint Tea or Mojito: Refreshing beverages like mint tea or a mojito provide a cooling contrast to the brownies’ richness. They cleanse the palate between bites, enhancing your overall tasting experience.
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Chocolate Milkshake: For a fun twist, pair your brownies with a thick chocolate milkshake. The combination is a nostalgic throwback that will have everyone smiling from ear to ear.
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Nutty Biscotti: Crunchy biscotti adds a delightful texture variation. Dipping a piece into your brownie brings together the best of both worlds—soft and crunchy, chocolate and nutty.
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Coffee Ice Cream Float: For an inventive dessert experience, try combining coffee ice cream with fizzy soda. Each spoonful offers an exciting twist alongside those luscious brownies, making dessert an unforgettable adventure!
Make Ahead Options
These Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts seeking sweet convenience! You can prepare the brownie batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the dry ingredients and the wet ingredients separately, then combining them just before baking to keep the strawberries fresh and vibrant. Simply store the mixed batter in the refrigerator and cover it tightly. When you’re ready to indulge, pour the chilled batter into your prepared pan and bake as directed. For a delightful touch, allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting, ensuring each square remains moist and fudgy. This time-saving strategy is ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Ensure that you measure your flour accurately by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off for perfect brownie consistency.
- A common mistake is overmixing the batter after adding the wet ingredients, which can result in dense brownies; mix just until combined.
- For best results with the strawberries, make sure to pat them dry after washing to avoid adding excess moisture to your batter.
- When baking your Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies, check for doneness a minute or two early to prevent overbaking, as they will continue to set while cooling.
Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best strawberries for my brownies?
Absolutely! When selecting strawberries, look for ones that are bright red, firm, and free from dark spots or blemishes. Choosing ripe strawberries ensures your brownies pack that juicy, fresh flavor. If strawberries are slightly overripe, you can still use them; just make sure to consume the brownies sooner, as they may not hold up as long.
How should I store leftover brownies?
To keep your Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’re looking for a longer shelf life, pop them in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just note that refrigeration might slightly affect their texture, making them less fudgy.
Can I freeze my brownies for future treats?
The more the merrier! Yes, you can freeze these brownies. Wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe zip-top bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, just let them thaw at room temperature, or pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for that fresh-out-of-the-oven feeling!
What if my brownies come out too cakey?
If you find your Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies are too cakey rather than the desired fudginess, this could be due to overmixing or overbaking. To ensure fudgy texture, mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined—lumps are perfectly fine! When baking, keep an eye on the timer and check for doneness a minute or two early. A toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs, not completely clean.
Are these brownies suitable for people with allergies?
Very! It’s important to note that these brownies contain dairy and eggs, making them unsuitable for those with dairy allergies or egg sensitivities. If you’re looking for alternatives, consider using egg replacers and dairy-free butter to make a version that fits a dairy-free or vegan diet. As for chocolate, check that your chocolate chips are dairy-free if necessary.
How long do these brownies last in the fridge?
You can enjoy your Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just be sure to keep them in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out. They may firm up a bit in the fridge, so if you’re craving gooey brownies, a quick warm-up in the microwave can revive that delightful texture!
Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Whisk together the dry ingredients in a mixing bowl: combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, and 1 cup of granulated sugar.
- Melt the unsalted butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Let it cool slightly, then mix in 2 large eggs until smooth and glossy.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients gently, then fold in the chopped fresh strawberries and semi-sweet chocolate chips.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Cool the brownies slightly in the pan before serving.
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