Introduction & Inspiration
Every once in a while, a dessert comes along that feels like a celebration in every bite. For me, that’s exactly what these Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies are.
They combine two of my favorite indulgences—rich, fudgy brownies and chocolate-dipped strawberries—into one gorgeous layered treat. It’s the perfect harmony of deep cocoa, juicy berries, and velvety ganache.
I made these for the first time on Valentine’s Day, and the reaction was everything I hoped for. They’re elegant, decadent, and surprisingly easy to pull off, even if you’re not a seasoned baker.
Whether you’re hosting a special occasion, baking for someone you love, or just treating yourself to something luxurious, this recipe delivers a wow factor every single time.
Nostalgic Appeal
Chocolate brownies were one of the first desserts I learned to make as a kid. I remember whisking the batter, watching it puff up in the oven, and sneaking warm corner pieces before they fully cooled.
Then there were strawberries—always a symbol of summer and sweetness. My mom would dip them in chocolate for special events, and they felt like the most indulgent treat in the world.
This recipe combines those two nostalgic desserts into one experience. It feels familiar, but it’s layered with flavor and texture in a way that makes it feel grown-up and refined.
Every time I make these, I’m reminded of kitchen memories from years ago—but also of how satisfying it is to create something stunning with simple ingredients.
Homemade Focus
What I love most about these brownies is how completely homemade they are. No shortcuts, no mixes—just real butter, sugar, eggs, cocoa, and love.
The brownie base is deeply chocolatey and dense, the kind of texture that holds its shape when sliced but still melts in your mouth. It’s the kind of brownie that doesn’t need a topping—but happily welcomes one.
The strawberries are fresh, not jammy or overly sweetened. That’s what keeps this dessert feeling bright and clean, despite all the rich chocolate.
And the ganache? It’s just two ingredients—cream and chocolate—but it turns glossy and luxurious as it sets. Homemade ganache takes minutes to make, but the flavor is pure elegance.
Flavor Goal
The goal here is decadence without heaviness. I wanted every bite to have three things: the richness of chocolate, the brightness of fruit, and the smooth, silky finish of ganache.
The brownie base sets the tone with bold cocoa flavor and just the right amount of sweetness. It’s rich, but not too sugary—so it doesn’t overpower the other layers.
The strawberries provide a burst of freshness. Their tartness balances the sweetness and adds juiciness that contrasts beautifully with the dense brownie.
Then there’s the ganache, which locks everything together. It’s creamy and luscious, with a glossy finish that looks as good as it tastes.
Together, the layers create contrast and harmony. It’s not just a chocolate dessert—it’s a layered experience of flavor and texture.
Ingredient Insights
Unsalted butter is the fat base for the brownies. Melted butter gives them a dense, fudgy texture that sets them apart from cake-like versions.
Granulated sugar sweetens the brownie and creates that signature shiny top. Combined with eggs, it gives structure and chewiness.
Eggs help bind everything together and give the brownies stability. Four eggs might seem like a lot, but they’re key to the rich texture.
Vanilla extract rounds out the chocolate and adds warmth. It’s subtle but necessary for depth of flavor.
All-purpose flour provides structure without making the brownies dry. You don’t need much to keep that soft, fudgy center.
Unsweetened cocoa powder brings bold chocolate flavor. Use high-quality cocoa if you can—it makes a huge difference in richness.
Salt and baking powder balance the flavors and add just a touch of lift so the brownies don’t sink.
Fresh strawberries, halved, are layered on top once the brownies cool. They add freshness and color, and they hold up beautifully under the ganache.
Semi-sweet chocolate chips are used for the ganache. They melt smoothly and provide a balanced chocolate flavor—not too bitter or sweet.
Heavy cream adds richness and helps create a silky, pourable ganache that sets into a firm but creamy layer.
Essential Equipment
You’ll need a 9×13-inch baking pan, which gives the brownies just the right thickness to hold all the layers without becoming overwhelming.
Parchment paper is key for lining the pan. It makes removing and slicing the brownies much easier and ensures clean, intact squares.
A large mixing bowl and whisk are all you need to bring the brownie batter together. This is a simple recipe, so no electric mixer is required.
Use a microwave-safe bowl to melt the butter and later, the ganache. You could also use a double boiler for the ganache if you prefer.
A spatula will help you spread the brownie batter evenly and smooth the ganache layer.
List of Ingredients with Measurements
For the Brownie Base:
- 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
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Brownies
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Add the sugar and whisk until the mixture is combined and slightly glossy.
Add the eggs, one at a time, whisking well after each. Stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and fold just until combined.
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly with a spatula.
Step 2: Bake and Cool
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Let the brownies cool completely in the pan. This step is important so the strawberries don’t release too much juice into a warm base.
Once cool, arrange the halved strawberries cut-side down over the top in a single layer.
Step 3: Make the Ganache
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and heavy cream.
Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
Pour the ganache over the strawberry layer. Use a spatula to gently spread it, covering all the berries.
Step 4: Chill and Slice
Refrigerate the brownies for at least 1 hour to allow the ganache to set.
Use the parchment overhang to lift the brownies out of the pan. Place on a cutting board and slice into squares using a sharp knife.
For the cleanest cuts, wipe the knife with a warm, damp cloth between slices.
Troubleshooting
Brownies underbaked or gooey?
Make sure a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs but no raw batter. Cool completely before topping.
Strawberries sliding around?
Arrange them closely and gently press into the brownie before topping with ganache to hold them in place.
Ganache too thin or runny?
Let it cool slightly before pouring, or reduce the cream by a tablespoon next time.
Topping separating when slicing?
Chill the dessert thoroughly before slicing, and use a sharp knife dipped in warm water for clean edges.
Tips and Variations
Use dark chocolate or bittersweet chips for a richer ganache with less sweetness.
Add a splash of espresso to the brownie batter to deepen the chocolate flavor.
Substitute raspberries or thinly sliced bananas if strawberries aren’t available or in season.
Sprinkle the top with flaked sea salt, chopped nuts, or freeze-dried berries for extra texture and visual appeal.
Want to make them extra fancy? Pipe a small swirl of whipped cream on each square before serving.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
These brownies are best served slightly chilled. The texture is firmer, the layers are clean, and the flavors stay fresh and balanced.
Pair with a glass of red wine, coffee, or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
Serve at parties, romantic dinners, or even as part of a brunch spread—yes, I said brunch. Chocolate is always welcome.
They also make beautiful edible gifts. Just place them in cupcake liners and package them in a gift box with ribbon.
Nutritional Information (approximate per square, based on 16 servings)
- Calories: 310
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugar: 23g
- Protein: 3g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 75mg
These values can vary depending on the size of your strawberries and chocolate used.
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Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
Description
Every once in a while, a dessert comes along that feels like a celebration in every bite. For me, that’s exactly what these Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies are
Ingredients
For the Brownie Base:
-
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
-
2 cups granulated sugar
-
4 large eggs
-
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 cup all-purpose flour
-
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
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½ teaspoon salt
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1 teaspoon baking powder
For the Topping:
-
1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
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1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
-
½ cup heavy cream
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Brownies
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Add the sugar and whisk until the mixture is combined and slightly glossy.
Add the eggs, one at a time, whisking well after each. Stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and fold just until combined.
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly with a spatula.
Step 2: Bake and Cool
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Let the brownies cool completely in the pan. This step is important so the strawberries don’t release too much juice into a warm base.
Once cool, arrange the halved strawberries cut-side down over the top in a single layer.
Step 3: Make the Ganache
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and heavy cream.
Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
Pour the ganache over the strawberry layer. Use a spatula to gently spread it, covering all the berries.
Step 4: Chill and Slice
Refrigerate the brownies for at least 1 hour to allow the ganache to set.
Use the parchment overhang to lift the brownies out of the pan. Place on a cutting board and slice into squares using a sharp knife.
For the cleanest cuts, wipe the knife with a warm, damp cloth between slices.
Recipe Summary and Q&A
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, they’re perfect for making a day in advance. Just store them in the fridge, tightly covered.
Can I freeze them?
You can freeze the brownie base, but I recommend adding the strawberries and ganache after thawing for best texture.
Do I need to use fresh strawberries?
Fresh works best here for firmness and flavor. Frozen berries release too much moisture and won’t hold their shape.
Can I use a boxed brownie mix?
You can, but the homemade version gives you a richer, less sweet base that complements the topping perfectly.
How long will they keep?
Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, they’ll stay fresh for 3–4 days.