As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to whipping up something special in the kitchen. That’s why I absolutely adore these Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies! They’re the perfect blend of rich, fudgy brownies topped with fresh strawberries and a luscious chocolate drizzle. It’s a delightful dessert that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also impresses your loved ones. Whether it’s a quick solution for a busy day or a treat for a special occasion, these brownies are sure to bring smiles all around!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
- Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy days.
- Combines the rich taste of brownies with fresh strawberries.
- Impressive enough for gatherings yet simple for everyday treats.
- Customizable with different chocolate types or toppings.
- Great for satisfying sweet cravings without a lot of fuss.
Ingredients for Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Brownie Mix: A box of your favorite brownie mix serves as the base. It’s quick and convenient, perfect for busy days.
- Fresh Strawberries: One pound of ripe strawberries adds a burst of freshness. Rinse them well, remove the stems, and slice them in half for easy topping.
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: Two cups of chocolate chips or a high-quality chocolate bar will create a rich ganache. Opt for good chocolate for a more decadent flavor.
- Heavy Whipping Cream: One cup of heavy cream is essential for making the smooth chocolate ganache. It adds a luxurious texture that elevates the brownies.
Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate or even add a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a gourmet touch. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using a low-fat brownie mix. For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing!
How to Make Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious dessert that’s sure to impress.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven according to the brownie mix instructions. Preheating is crucial because it ensures even baking. If you skip this step, your brownies might end up unevenly cooked, which is a big no-no!
Step 2: Prepare the Brownie Mix
Next, grab your brownie mix and follow the box instructions. Typically, you’ll need to add eggs, oil, and water. For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of espresso powder. It really enhances the chocolatey goodness!
Step 3: Bake the Brownies
Pour the brownie batter into a greased baking pan and pop it in the oven. Bake for the time specified on the box. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, you’re good to go. If it’s wet, give it a few more minutes.
Step 4: Make the Chocolate Ganache
While the brownies are baking, let’s make the chocolate ganache. In a saucepan, heat the heavy whipping cream over medium heat until it starts to simmer. Remove it from the heat and add the chocolate chips. Stir until the chocolate is melted and smooth. This ganache is what makes your brownies truly decadent!
Step 5: Add Strawberries
Once the brownies are completely cooled, it’s time to add the strawberries. Arrange the halved strawberries on top of the brownies, cut side up. This not only looks beautiful but also allows the chocolate to cling to the strawberries perfectly.
Step 6: Drizzle with Chocolate
Now for the fun part—drizzling the chocolate ganache! You can use a spoon or a piping bag for a more controlled drizzle. Just let the chocolate flow over the strawberries and brownies, creating a beautiful, tempting layer. Don’t be shy; the more chocolate, the better!
Step 7: Let it Set
Finally, allow the chocolate to set before cutting into squares. This step is important because it helps the ganache firm up, making it easier to slice. You can speed up the process by placing the brownies in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Trust me, the wait will be worth it!
Tips for Success
- Always use fresh strawberries for the best flavor and presentation.
- Let the brownies cool completely to avoid melting the strawberries.
- For a glossy ganache, make sure to stir the chocolate until fully melted and smooth.
- Experiment with different chocolate types for unique flavors.
- Store leftovers in the fridge to keep them fresh and delicious.
Equipment Needed
- Baking Pan: A 9×13 inch pan works perfectly. If you don’t have one, a similar-sized dish will do.
- Mixing Bowl: Any large bowl for mixing the brownie batter. A glass or metal bowl is ideal.
- Whisk or Spoon: Use a whisk for smooth batter, or a spoon if that’s what you have on hand.
- Saucepan: A small saucepan for heating the cream. A microwave-safe bowl can also work.
- Spatula: A rubber spatula is great for spreading the ganache evenly.
Variations
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the brownie batter for a crunchy texture.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free brownie mix to make these Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
- Vegan Twist: Substitute eggs with flaxseed meal and use dairy-free chocolate chips and coconut cream for the ganache.
- Minty Fresh: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the ganache for a refreshing mint chocolate flavor.
- Fruit Medley: Mix in other berries like raspberries or blueberries along with the strawberries for a colorful and fruity topping.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair these brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream on the side for added creaminess.
- Drizzle some extra chocolate sauce on the plate for an elegant presentation.
- Enjoy with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk to balance the sweetness.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
FAQs about Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
Can I use homemade brownie batter instead of a box mix?
Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade brownie recipe, feel free to use it. Just make sure it’s a fudgy recipe to complement the strawberries and chocolate.
How do I store leftover Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to three days, but trust me, they won’t last that long!
Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the brownies a day in advance. Just add the strawberries and chocolate ganache right before serving for the best presentation and taste.
What can I substitute for heavy whipping cream in the ganache?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even coconut cream for a dairy-free version. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly.
Can I freeze Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies?
Yes, you can freeze them! Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. They’ll keep well for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Final Thoughts
Making Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies is more than just baking; it’s about creating sweet memories in the kitchen. The joy of combining fudgy brownies with fresh strawberries and rich chocolate is simply irresistible. Each bite is a celebration of flavors that brings smiles to my family’s faces. Whether it’s a casual weeknight treat or a special dessert for gatherings, these brownies never fail to impress. I hope you find as much joy in making and sharing them as I do. So, roll up your sleeves and indulge in this delightful dessert—you deserve it!
PrintChocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies: Indulge in this Delight!
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich and decadent Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies, a delightful dessert that combines the fudgy goodness of brownies with the freshness of strawberries and a luscious chocolate coating.
Ingredients
- 1 box brownie mix (plus ingredients listed on box to make the brownies, typically eggs, oil, and water)
- 1 pound fresh strawberries (rinsed with stems removed and halved)
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (or high quality chocolate bar)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
Instructions
- Preheat the oven according to the brownie mix instructions.
- Prepare the brownie mix as directed on the box, then pour the batter into a greased baking pan.
- Bake the brownies for the time specified on the box, then allow them to cool completely.
- In a saucepan, heat the heavy whipping cream until it begins to simmer.
- Remove from heat and add the chocolate chips, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Once the brownies are cooled, place the halved strawberries on top of the brownies.
- Drizzle or pour the melted chocolate over the strawberries and brownies.
- Allow the chocolate to set before cutting into squares and serving.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use high-quality chocolate bars instead of chocolate chips.
- Make sure the brownies are completely cooled before adding the strawberries and chocolate.
- These brownies can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies, Strawberry Brownies, Brownies, dessert