Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies are a decadent twist on the classic brownie, featuring rich, fudgy layers topped with fresh, juicy strawberries and finished with a silky chocolate ganache. These luxurious bars strike the perfect balance between indulgent and elegant—ideal for Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, birthdays, or any time you want to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dessert combines three irresistible layers: a chewy brownie base, a fresh fruit center, and a glossy chocolate topping. The strawberries cut through the richness of the brownie and ganache, adding freshness and texture. It’s easy to make ahead, travels well, and slices beautifully for serving. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or treating yourself, these brownies feel gourmet with minimal effort.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Brownies:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
For the Topping:
- 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup heavy cream
Directions
Preheat & Prep:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal later.
Make the Brownie Batter:
Melt the butter in a large microwave-safe bowl. Stir in the sugar until combined.
Whisk in the eggs and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth.
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder.
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined—do not overmix.
Bake the Brownies:
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top evenly.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Cool the brownies completely in the pan.
Layer the Strawberries:
Once cooled, arrange the halved strawberries in an even layer across the surface of the brownies, cut side down.
Make the Ganache:
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and heavy cream.
Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until melted and smooth.
Assemble:
Gently pour the ganache over the strawberries. Use a spatula to spread the ganache evenly, covering the berries completely.
Chill & Serve:
Refrigerate the pan for at least 1 hour, or until the ganache is set.
Use the parchment overhang to lift the brownie slab out of the pan and onto a cutting board.
Slice into squares and garnish with additional strawberry halves if desired.
Servings and timing
- Servings: 12 brownies
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes (including chilling)
- Calories per serving: Approximately 390 kcal
Variations
- Boozy Twist: Add a tablespoon of strawberry liqueur or Chambord to the ganache for a grown-up version.
- White Chocolate Version: Use white chocolate chips for the ganache for a lighter, sweeter finish.
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or hazelnuts to the brownie batter for texture.
- Dark Chocolate Upgrade: Use bittersweet or dark chocolate for a more intense flavor.
- Strawberry Jam Layer: Spread a thin layer of strawberry jam on the brownies before layering the fresh fruit.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Keep brownies refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze in a single layer, tightly wrapped, for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating: These brownies are best served chilled or at room temperature. Reheating is not recommended as it will melt the ganache.
FAQs
Can I use boxed brownie mix?
Yes, a high-quality boxed mix can be used for convenience. Prepare as directed and follow the remaining steps.
Do I have to use fresh strawberries?
Fresh strawberries are ideal for texture and flavor. Frozen strawberries are not recommended due to moisture content.
Can I make these brownies in advance?
Yes, these are excellent for making a day ahead. Chill overnight and slice just before serving.
Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet?
Yes, though the ganache will be sweeter. Adjust to your preference.
How do I slice the brownies cleanly?
Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water and wiped clean between cuts for neat edges.
Will the ganache harden?
It sets to a soft, sliceable consistency—firm enough to hold its shape, yet silky to bite.
Can I omit the ganache?
You can, but the ganache completes the chocolate-covered strawberry concept.
How do I prevent soggy brownies?
Ensure brownies are fully cooled before adding the strawberries and ganache, and store them chilled.
What can I serve these with?
Serve alone or with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.
Can I use a different fruit?
Raspberries or sliced bananas can be used, but strawberries offer the best structure and flavor pairing.
Conclusion
Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies are a decadent, crowd-pleasing dessert that feels both luxurious and comforting. With layers of rich chocolate, juicy fruit, and silky ganache, they offer a stunning visual and a deeply satisfying bite. Whether you’re baking for a special celebration or just because, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite for chocolate and fruit lovers alike.
Print
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 brownies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies are the ultimate indulgence — rich, fudgy brownies layered with juicy fresh strawberries and smothered in a silky chocolate ganache. Perfect for Valentine’s Day, romantic dinners, or when you need an elegant, crowd-pleasing dessert with a chocolate-and-fruit twist.
Ingredients
For the Brownies:
-
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
-
2 cups granulated sugar
-
4 large eggs
-
1 tsp vanilla extract
-
1 cup all-purpose flour
-
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
-
1/2 tsp salt
-
1 tsp baking powder
For the Topping:
-
1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
-
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
-
1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions
-
Preheat & Prep:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy lifting. -
Make the Brownie Batter:
Melt butter in a large microwave-safe bowl. Stir in sugar, then whisk in eggs and vanilla until smooth.
In another bowl, sift together flour, cocoa, salt, and baking powder. Gradually mix into wet ingredients just until combined. -
Bake the Brownies:
Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs. Cool completely. -
Layer the Strawberries:
Arrange halved strawberries, cut-side down, evenly over the cooled brownie layer. -
Make the Ganache:
Microwave chocolate chips and cream in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth and glossy.
-
Assemble & Chill:
Pour ganache over strawberries and spread gently to coat.
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until set. Lift from pan and slice into squares. Garnish with extra strawberries if desired
Notes
-
Use room-temperature strawberries for best flavor and texture.
-
Chill thoroughly before slicing to ensure clean, neat cuts.
-
Swap ganache for white chocolate or drizzle with caramel for a twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- chill time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
