If you are searching for a delightful twist on a classic dessert, this Chocolate Strawberry Brownies Recipe is exactly what you need to bring a fresh, fruity burst to fudgy, rich brownies. Blending the deep, intense flavor of cocoa with the sweet and tangy juiciness of fresh strawberries, these brownies offer a scrumptious contrast that creates a truly unforgettable treat. Topped with a silky chocolate ganache draped over luscious strawberries, it’s a combination that feels indulgent yet wonderfully balanced. Sharing this recipe will make you the hero of any gathering or the ultimate cozy night-in companion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple staples, but each plays an important role in crafting the perfect Chocolate Strawberry Brownies Recipe. From the creamy butter that adds moisture and richness to the fresh strawberries that bring vibrant color and natural sweetness, every component is essential for building layers of flavor and texture.
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter: Melted butter provides that tender, fudgy texture every brownie craves.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens and balances the cocoa’s bitterness for a delightful taste.
- 2 large eggs: Eggs bind the ingredients while contributing to the dense, chewy structure.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth, elevating the overall flavor profile.
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: The heart of the chocolate component, giving richness and a deep cocoa punch.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Provides structure and holds the brownies together without heaviness.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Enhances flavor and balances sweetness perfectly.
- 1/4 tsp baking powder: Gives a slight lift to avoid overly dense brownies.
- 1 cup chopped fresh strawberries: Adds fresh, juicy brightness and beautiful bursts of color.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Creates the luscious ganache that smoothly coats the strawberries.
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (for ganache): Melts into a glossy chocolate topping that’s rich without being too sweet.
How to Make Chocolate Strawberry Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan and Preheat
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take an 8×8-inch baking pan and either grease it well or line it with parchment paper. This step ensures your brownies will come out cleanly and keep their perfect shape when you slice them.
Step 2: Create the Butter and Sugar Base
Gently melt the butter in a medium saucepan over low heat to avoid browning. Once melted, remove it from the heat and whisk in the granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until everything is smooth and homogenous. This creates the sweet, rich foundation you need for your brownies.
Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients
Next, stir in the unsweetened cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder. Be sure to mix just until combined to keep your brownies tender and fudgy, avoiding overmixing which can make them dry or cakey.
Step 4: Bake Your Brownies
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it into an even layer. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center has a few moist crumbs clinging to it—this ensures your brownies stay gooey but are cooked through. Cool completely before moving on.
Step 5: Layer on the Fresh Strawberries
Once your brownies are completely cooled, arrange your chopped fresh strawberries evenly across the top. These juicy pieces add a fresh, slightly tart bite that perfectly complements the chocolate’s bittersweet richness.
Step 6: Prepare and Pour the Chocolate Ganache
Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan or microwave until it’s hot but not boiling, then pour it over the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a bowl. Allow it to sit for a minute or two so the chocolate softens, then gently stir until glossy and smooth. This ganache will be the luxurious finishing touch for your brownies.
Step 7: Finish and Chill
Pour the ganache over the strawberries, spreading carefully to coat all the berries evenly without disturbing their placement. Refrigerate your brownies for at least one hour to help the ganache set completely before slicing and serving.
How to Serve Chocolate Strawberry Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
Feel free to sprinkle some finely chopped nuts like pistachios or almonds on top of the ganache for extra texture and a beautiful crunch contrast. A dusting of powdered sugar or a few fresh mint leaves can also brighten the presentation and invite your guests to dig in eagerly.
Side Dishes
Serve your Chocolate Strawberry Brownies alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a classic dessert duo. Fresh berries or a light fruit salad can complement the richness with refreshing brightness, making assembly simple yet elegant.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider cutting the brownies into smaller squares and presenting them on individual dessert plates with drizzles of raspberry coulis or chocolate syrup. Alternatively, turn them into decadent brownie parfaits by layering chunks with whipped cream and extra strawberry slices in glasses for a stunning, multi-textured treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover Chocolate Strawberry Brownies Recipe fresh by storing them airtight in the refrigerator. Thanks to the ganache topping and fresh fruit, refrigeration helps maintain their freshness and texture. They’ll stay delicious for up to 4 days, perfect for midweek indulgences.
Freezing
If you want to save your brownies for longer, they freeze beautifully. Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. Frozen brownies can last up to 2 months and make a quick dessert option when thawed overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
For the best experience, it’s recommended to enjoy these brownies chilled or at room temperature due to the ganache and fresh strawberries. If you prefer warm brownies, gently warm a slice in the microwave for about 10 seconds, but avoid overheating to keep the ganache from becoming too soft.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for this Chocolate Strawberry Brownies Recipe?
While fresh strawberries are ideal for texture and flavor, you can use frozen strawberries if fresh ones are unavailable. Just thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture making the brownies soggy.
Is it possible to make these brownies vegan or dairy-free?
Yes, by swapping butter for a dairy-free margarine and using a plant-based cream and chocolate chips, you can adapt this recipe to be vegan. Just note the texture might slightly differ, but the flavor will remain fantastic.
How do I know when the brownies are perfectly baked?
Insert a toothpick into the center. When it comes out with just a few moist crumbs attached, your brownies are done. This ensures they stay fudgy and rich, not dry or overbaked.
Can I substitute the heavy cream in the ganache?
You can use full-fat coconut milk as a dairy-free alternative. It provides a similar richness and smoothness, pairing beautifully with the chocolate for a luscious ganache.
What’s the best way to cut these brownies without making a mess?
Use a sharp knife and warm the blade slightly by running it under hot water and drying it before each cut. This technique helps slice through the ganache cleanly without sticking.
Final Thoughts
If you want to impress your friends or simply treat yourself, this Chocolate Strawberry Brownies Recipe is a game-changer that brings fresh fruit delight into the world of rich, indulgent brownies. Its blend of flavors and textures is sure to become a new favorite, so don’t wait to try baking a batch—you’ll be glad you did.
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Chocolate Strawberry Brownies Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings 1x
Description
Delight in rich, fudgy chocolate strawberry brownies that combine classic cocoa brownie flavor with fresh strawberries and a luscious chocolate ganache topping. Perfectly baked and topped with a creamy ganache, this dessert offers a scrumptious blend of textures and flavors for chocolate and strawberry lovers alike.
Ingredients
Brownie Batter
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp baking powder
Additional Ingredients
- 1 cup chopped fresh strawberries
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (for ganache)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8×8-inch baking pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Make Brownie Batter: In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over low heat. Remove from heat, then stir in the granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Add the unsweetened cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined to form the brownie batter, avoiding overmixing to keep the brownies tender.
- Bake Brownies: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely.
- Add Strawberries: Once cooled, evenly arrange the chopped fresh strawberries over the top of the brownies to create a fresh fruit layer.
- Prepare Ganache: Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan or in the microwave until it just begins to simmer. Pour the hot cream over the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a bowl and let it sit for 1 to 2 minutes to melt the chocolate. Stir gently until the ganache becomes smooth and glossy.
- Finish and Chill: Pour the prepared ganache evenly over the strawberries on the brownies. Gently spread to cover. Refrigerate the entire pan for at least 1 hour to allow the ganache to set properly before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh, ripe strawberries for optimal flavor and texture.
- If you prefer a vegan version, substitute butter with coconut oil, use flax eggs, and pick dairy-free chocolate and cream alternatives.
- Store brownies covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and ganache texture.
- Let brownies come to room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving for the best flavor experience.
- Do not overbake the brownies to keep them moist and fudgy.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
