Chocolate. Strawberries. Brownies. Need we say more? This irresistible combination creates a dessert that's both decadent and surprisingly easy to make. These chocolate covered strawberry brownies are perfect for parties, holidays, or simply indulging in a sweet treat at home. This post will guide you through creating this delicious dessert, answering some frequently asked questions along the way.
What Makes Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies So Special?
The magic lies in the delightful contrast of textures and flavors. The fudgy, intensely chocolatey brownie provides a rich base, while the juicy sweetness of fresh strawberries adds a bright, refreshing counterpoint. The rich chocolate coating brings everything together, creating a symphony of taste and texture in every bite. It's the perfect blend of classic brownie goodness with a sophisticated twist.
How to Make Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies: A Step-by-Step Guide
This recipe combines a classic brownie recipe with a simple chocolate coating and fresh strawberries. Feel free to adjust the sweetness and chocolate type to your preference.
Ingredients:
- For the Brownies:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- For the Chocolate Coating:
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- For the Garnish:
- 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
Instructions:
- Preheat & Prepare: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs.
- Cool: Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before frosting.
- Make the Chocolate Coating: While the brownies cool, melt the chocolate chips and heavy cream in a double boiler or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Assemble: Once the brownies are completely cool, spread the chocolate coating evenly over the top. Arrange the halved strawberries on top of the chocolate, pressing them gently into the coating.
- Chill (Optional): For easier cutting and a firmer chocolate coating, chill the brownies in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
What kind of chocolate is best for chocolate covered strawberry brownies?
Semi-sweet chocolate chips are a classic choice and provide a good balance of sweetness and bitterness. However, you can experiment with milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate for a different flavor profile. Using high-quality chocolate will significantly enhance the overall taste of your brownies.
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
While fresh strawberries are ideal for their vibrant flavor and juicy texture, you can use frozen strawberries in a pinch. Make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before placing them on the brownies to prevent a watery coating. Keep in mind that frozen strawberries might not be as visually appealing as fresh ones.
How do I store leftover chocolate covered strawberry brownies?
Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. The chocolate coating may become slightly softer at room temperature, but the brownies will still be delicious.
How far in advance can I make these brownies?
You can bake the brownies a day or two in advance. However, it's best to add the chocolate coating and strawberries right before serving to ensure the strawberries remain fresh and the chocolate coating is at its best.
These chocolate covered strawberry brownies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The combination of textures and flavors makes them a truly special treat. Enjoy!
