Introduction to Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
If you're on the lookout for a delightful treat to impress friends or unwind after a busy week, Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies should definitely be on your dessert radar. These brownies are not just any ordinary chocolate dessert; they beautifully blend the rich, fudgy texture of brownies with the sweet and fruity essence of strawberries, topped off with a luscious chocolate ganache.
Why Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies are a must-try for young professionals
Young professionals often juggle hectic schedules but still crave indulgent experiences. These strawberry brownies are the perfect solution!
- Quick and Easy: Made in just over an hour, you'll whip up these stunning brownies with minimal fuss—ideal for a weeknight baking project!
- Impressive Presentation: With their vibrant strawberry layer and glossy chocolate glaze, they make for a show-stopping dessert at gatherings or potlucks.
- Dual Flavor Profile: These brownies satisfy both chocolate lovers and fruit enthusiasts, making them a versatile choice for any palate.
After all, what's better than indulging in a dessert that combines the decadence of chocolate with the freshness of strawberries? Plus, they’re the perfect sweet ending to any meal or just a delightful snack when you need a pick-me-up at work. For a step-by-step guide, check out our video tutorial included in the full recipe!
Learn how to make these delectable treats and elevate your dessert game today!
Ingredients for Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
Creating Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies is a delightful adventure that brings together rich chocolate, fresh strawberries, and a luscious glaze. Here’s what you’ll need to make these tempting treats:
Brownie Ingredients
To craft the perfect brownie base, gather these ingredients:
- ¾ cup (170 g) unsalted butter (cut into pieces)
- ½ cup (100 g) semisweet chocolate chips (or 4 oz chopped bittersweet chocolate)
- ½ cup (50 g) natural cocoa powder
- ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
- ¾ cup (150 g) light brown sugar (firmly packed)
- 2 large eggs + 1 large egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon table salt
- 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup (150 g) semisweet chocolate chips (optional)
Strawberry Topping Ingredients
Next, let’s elevate your brownies with a fresh strawberry topping:
- 1 cup (16 g) freeze-dried strawberries
- ¾ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 cups (250 g) powdered sugar
- ⅛ teaspoon table salt
- 2-4 Tablespoons heavy cream or milk (as needed)
Chocolate Glaze Ingredients
Finally, complete your strawberry brownies with a silky chocolate glaze:
- 4 oz (113 g) semisweet chocolate bar (finely chopped)
- ½ cup (118 ml) heavy cream
These ingredients are essential for whipping up a delectable dessert that’s sure to impress. Happy baking!
Preparing Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
Creating the perfect strawberry brownies is a delightful culinary adventure that combines rich chocolate with the fresh taste of strawberries. I’m excited to share each step with you, ensuring that your baking experience is both enjoyable and rewarding. Let’s dive in!
Preheat and Prepare the Baking Pan
First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grab a 9×9-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on two sides. This little hack makes it a breeze to lift your brownies out later. No one wants to struggle with cutting brownies, right?
Melt the Chocolate and Butter
In a large, microwave-safe bowl, combine ¾ cup of unsalted butter and ½ cup of semisweet chocolate chips. Heat it in the microwave for 20-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth. The goal here is a luscious, melted mixture full of chocolatey goodness—trust me, this is where the magic starts!
Mix in the Sugars, Eggs, and Other Ingredients
Next, add in ½ cup of cocoa powder, ¾ cup of granulated sugar, and ¾ cup of packed light brown sugar. Then, crack in two large eggs plus one egg yolk, a teaspoon of vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon of table salt. Mix it thoroughly until everything is well combined; the batter should feel cohesive and inviting.
Incorporate the Flour and Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in 1 cup of all-purpose flour until fully combined. If you’re feeling a little indulgent, toss in ¾ cup of additional chocolate chips. Who wouldn’t want those extra gooey pockets of chocolate? Stir until you see no more flour streaks; we want a rich, fudgy batter.
Bake the Brownies to Fudgy Perfection
Spread your delectable brownie batter evenly in the prepared pan. Bake in the center of your preheated oven for 30–35 minutes. The perfect test? Insert a toothpick; you want it to come out clean or with fudgy crumbs, not gooey batter. Let them cool completely in the pan before moving on to the strawberry frosting.
Make the Strawberry Topping
While the brownies cool, it's time to create the strawberry layer. Grind up 1 cup of freeze-dried strawberries into a fine dust using a food processor or by placing them in a Ziploc bag and crushing them. In a separate bowl, beat ¾ cup of softened butter until creamy, then gradually incorporate 2 cups of powdered sugar and a dash of salt. Stir in your strawberry dust and add 2-4 tablespoons of cream until you achieve a spreadable consistency.
Create the Chocolate Glaze
For the final touch, prepare the chocolate glaze by combining 4 ounces of finely chopped semisweet chocolate and ½ cup of heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat it for about 45 seconds, stirring until smooth. This velvety ganache will drape over your strawberry topping perfectly!
Assemble and Chill
Finally, spread the strawberry frosting over your cooled brownies and pour the chocolate glaze on top. Smoothing it out is key; I love using an offset spatula for a professional finish! Let the ganache set by chilling your creation in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Once firm, lift the brownies out using the parchment overhang, slice them, and enjoy your amazing strawberry brownies!
Enjoy the process and let the sweet aromas fill your kitchen! Your friends (and taste buds) will thank you.
Variations on Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
Gluten-Free Options
If you're looking to enjoy these strawberry brownies without gluten, fear not! Simply swap out regular flour for a gluten-free blend. Many blends are designed to mimic the texture of all-purpose flour, ensuring your brownies remain delightfully fudgy. You might also use almond flour for a nuttier flavor. Just keep an eye on the baking time, as gluten-free mixes can vary in moisture absorption.
Vegan Adaptations
Craving a vegan-friendly version? You can easily modify this recipe! Replace the eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce—a common substitute is 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg. Use plant-based butter and a non-dairy milk like almond or coconut to achieve a silky strawberry frosting. These swaps will allow everyone to indulge in the rich, chocolatey goodness of these brownies.
Baking Notes for Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
Tips for Achieving the Perfect Brownie Texture
To craft fudgy, indulgent brownies, don’t overmix once you add the flour; mix just until combined. Using quality chocolate like semisweet chocolate chips enhances flavor and moisture. Aim to underbake slightly for that melt-in-your-mouth texture—your toothpick should come out with just a few moist crumbs for a brownie that’s not too cakey.
Suggestions for Using Fresh Strawberries
Fresh strawberries can elevate your strawberry brownies even further! Always choose ripe, flavorful berries. For a fresh twist, slice them thin and toss lightly in sugar to enhance their natural sweetness. You can even drizzle melted chocolate over them before adding to your brownie layer for an extra touch of elegance. If you're interested in even more variety, try adding diced strawberries directly into the fudge brownie batter for that delicious pop of flavor in every bite!
Serving Suggestions for Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
Ideal Pairings with Beverages
When indulging in your chocolate covered strawberry brownies, think about refreshing beverages that complement the rich flavors. Iced tea, especially flavored varieties like peach or hibiscus, pairs wonderfully with these brownies. A glass of cold brew coffee can also provide a delightful contrast to the sweetness. For a non-caffeinated option, consider sparkling water infused with a hint of lemon or mint to cleanse your palate between bites.
Presentation Ideas for Gatherings
Elevate your serving game with creative presentation ideas!
- Rustic Charm: Arrange the brownies on a wooden board, sprinkle some freeze-dried strawberries around, and lay fresh strawberries on top for a pop of color.
- Individual Servings: Cut them into bite-sized squares and serve in cupcake liners—this makes it effortless for guests to grab and enjoy.
- Festive Accents: Top with a dollop of whipped cream and a few sprigs of mint for a fresh touch, making them a charming centerpiece at any gathering.
With these serving suggestions, your strawberry brownies are sure to be the highlight of any event!
Time details for Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
Preparation time
Get ready to whip up something delicious! You’ll spend about 35 minutes getting everything prepped for these delightful strawberry brownies. This includes gathering your ingredients and mixing the brownie batter.
Cooking time
Once your batter is ready, pop it in the oven for 35 minutes. Just enough time to enjoy the delicious aroma that will soon fill your kitchen!
Total time
In roughly 1 hour and 10 minutes, you'll take this indulgent treat from nothing to a stunning dessert that’s perfect for sharing or enjoying all on your own. With a mix of flavors and textures, these brownies are sure to impress!
For a step-by-step visual guide, don’t forget to check out the how-to video included in the recipe!
Nutritional Information for Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
Calories Per Serving
These indulgent chocolate covered strawberry brownies pack a satisfying punch at 541 calories per serving. While they may be rich, they offer a delightful balance of flavors that makes every bite worthwhile.
Sugar and Fat Content
With 52 grams of sugar and 30 grams of fat per serving, these brownies are undeniably luxurious. The combination of semisweet chocolate, butter, and strawberry frosting contributes to their decadent nature, making them a perfect treat for special occasions or when you're simply craving something sweet.
For a deeper dive into the nutritional benefits of ingredients like cocoa powder and strawberries, check out this article on healthy dessert choices. Enjoy responsibly!
FAQs about Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
Can I use a box-mix brownie instead?
Absolutely! If you're short on time or prefer convenience, you can use your favorite box-mix brownie to make these strawberry brownies. Just bake it in a 9x9 pan according to the package instructions. The key is to select a rich, fudgy mix to complement the strawberry topping and chocolate glaze.
How to store leftover brownies properly?
To keep your chocolate covered strawberry brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them, and they'll stay good for up to a week. You can also freeze the brownies by wrapping them tightly and placing them in a Ziploc bag; they can last several months in the freezer.
What’s the best way to achieve a glossy glaze?
For a shiny chocolate glaze, use high-quality semisweet chocolate and heavy cream. Be sure to heat them together gently to avoid burning the chocolate. Stirring from the center until completely smooth will help you achieve that lovely glossy finish! If you're looking for tips, check out this article on how to make perfect chocolate ganache.
Conclusion on Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
In summary, these chocolate covered strawberry brownies offer a delicious fusion of flavors and textures that will leave everyone wanting more. Perfect as a dessert for any occasion, these brownies combine heartiness with a refreshing twist. Treat yourself and enjoy this elegant dessert that celebrates both chocolate and strawberries!
Strawberry Brownies
Equipment
- Mixing Bowls
- 9×9 baking pan
- Electric Mixer
- Small food processor
Ingredients
Brownie
- ¾ cup unsalted butter cut into pieces
- ½ cup semisweet chocolate chips or 4 oz chopped bittersweet chocolate
- ½ cup natural cocoa powder
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup light brown sugar firmly packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon table salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup semisweet chocolate chips optional
Strawberry Topping
- 1 cup freeze dried strawberries
- ¾ cup unsalted butter softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- ⅛ teaspoon table salt
- 2-4 Tablespoons heavy cream or milk as needed
Chocolate Glaze
- 4 oz semisweet chocolate bar finely chopped
- ½ cup heavy cream
Instructions
Brownie layer
- Preheat oven to 350F (175C) and line a 9×9” baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large, microwave-safe mixing bowl combine butter and ½ cup (100g) chocolate chips. Heat in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until melted and smooth.
- Stir in cocoa powder, then add sugars, eggs and egg yolk, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until well combined.
- Add flour and stir until combined.
- Stir in chocolate chips, if using.
- Spread batter evenly in prepared baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes. Cool completely before adding topping.
Strawberry Topping
- Pulse freeze-dried strawberries in a food processor until ground into dust. Set aside.
- Beat butter in a large mixing bowl until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and stir until combined.
- Stir in salt, then gradually stir in strawberry dust until combined.
- Gradually stir in heavy cream until smooth and spreadable.
- Spread evenly over cooled brownies.
Chocolate Glaze
- Place chocolate in a bowl and pour heavy cream over it.
- Heat in the microwave for 45 seconds, then stir until smooth.
- Pour evenly over strawberry topping and smooth the surface.
- Allow ganache to firm before slicing.
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