Indulge in the perfect combination of rich, fudgy brownies topped with fresh strawberries and luxurious chocolate ganache. This chocolate-covered strawberry brownies recipe transforms a classic dessert into an elegant treat that’s surprisingly easy to make at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This chocolate-covered strawberry brownies recipe brings together three beloved flavors in one show-stopping dessert. The dense, chocolatey brownie base provides the perfect foundation for juicy fresh strawberries, while the silky ganache ties everything together with an extra layer of decadence. These brownies are ideal for special occasions, romantic dinners, or whenever you want to elevate a simple dessert into something extraordinary.
The recipe uses convenient brownie mix as a shortcut, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels. Despite its impressive appearance, you can have these chocolate-covered strawberry brownies ready in under two hours, including cooling time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Brownie Base
- 1 box fudge brownie mix (plus eggs, oil, and water as called for on package)
Strawberry Layer
- 2 cups fresh strawberries (hulled and sliced)
Chocolate Ganache
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownies
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Brownies Preheat your oven according to the brownie mix package directions. Line an 8×8 or 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal. Prepare the brownie mix according to package instructions, then pour the batter into your prepared pan. Bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached.
Step 2: Cool and Add Strawberries Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan, about 1 hour. Once cooled, arrange the sliced strawberries evenly over the brownie surface, creating an attractive pattern or simply covering the entire top.
Step 3: Make the Ganache Place chocolate chips in a medium heatproof bowl. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer (small bubbles will form around the edges). Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips and let sit for 2 minutes.
Step 4: Finish the Ganache Add butter and vanilla extract to the chocolate mixture. Whisk gently from the center outward until the ganache is smooth and glossy. If the mixture seems too thick, add cream one teaspoon at a time.
Step 5: Assemble and Chill Pour the warm ganache over the strawberry-topped brownies, using a spoon to spread it evenly and ensure all strawberries are covered. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the ganache before cutting.
Step 6: Cut and Serve Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the brownies from the pan. Cut into squares with a sharp knife, wiping the blade clean between cuts for neat edges.
Helpful Tips
Choose strawberries that are ripe but still firm to prevent them from becoming mushy under the ganache. Pat the sliced strawberries dry with paper towels before arranging them on the brownies to prevent excess moisture.
For the smoothest ganache, make sure your chocolate is finely chopped or use high-quality chocolate chips. If the ganache breaks or appears grainy, try whisking in an additional tablespoon of warm cream.
Let the brownies come to room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving for the best texture and flavor. The ganache will be perfectly set but not too firm.
Details
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Bake Time: 25-30 minutes (according to brownie mix)
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 9-16 squares (depending on cut size)
Difficulty: Easy to Intermediate
Notes
This chocolate-covered strawberry brownies recipe works best with box brownie mix that produces dense, fudgy brownies rather than cake-like varieties. Popular brands like Ghirardelli, Duncan Hines, or Betty Crocker work well.
The ganache can be made up to 2 days ahead and gently rewarmed before using. If it becomes too thick, whisk in small amounts of warm cream until it reaches the desired consistency.
For special occasions, consider garnishing individual squares with a fresh strawberry half or a drizzle of melted white chocolate for added visual appeal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen strawberries? Fresh strawberries work best for this recipe as they hold their shape better and don’t release excess moisture. If using frozen strawberries, thaw them completely and drain thoroughly before using.
How do I prevent the ganache from being too thick? The key is using the right ratio of cream to chocolate and ensuring the cream is hot enough when poured over the chocolate. If your ganache is too thick, gradually whisk in warm cream one teaspoon at a time.
Can I make these brownies ahead of time? Yes, these chocolate-covered strawberry brownies actually improve after chilling overnight. The flavors meld together beautifully, and the ganache sets to the perfect consistency.
What if I don’t have heavy cream? Heavy cream creates the smoothest ganache, but you can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk in a pinch. The ganache may be slightly less rich and may not set as firmly.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover chocolate-covered strawberry brownies covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The brownies are best served chilled or at room temperature.
For longer storage, you can freeze the brownies (without strawberries) for up to 3 months. Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. Add fresh strawberries and ganache after thawing.
If the ganache becomes too firm after refrigeration, let the brownies sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving.
Conclusion
This chocolate-covered strawberry brownies recipe proves that impressive desserts don’t always require complicated techniques. By combining the convenience of boxed brownie mix with fresh strawberries and homemade ganache, you create a dessert that looks and tastes like it came from a high-end bakery.
Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day, hosting a dinner party, or simply treating yourself to something special, these chocolate-covered strawberry brownies deliver on both flavor and presentation. The contrast of textures—from the dense brownie to the juicy strawberries and silky ganache—creates a memorable dessert experience that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
Try this chocolate-covered strawberry brownies recipe for your next special occasion, and watch as a simple box of brownie mix transforms into an elegant, restaurant-quality dessert that’s sure to impress.