Are you ready to indulge in an irresistible treat? These Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies are the perfect blend of rich, fudgy brownies topped with smooth chocolate ganache and fresh strawberries. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can impress your friends and satisfy your sweet tooth. Dive into a world of chocolate perfection that’s both fun to make and even better to eat! Let’s get started!
Ingredients
To make delicious chocolate covered strawberry brownies, you need simple and fresh ingredients. Here’s the list:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup heavy cream
These ingredients blend to create a rich brownie base topped with creamy chocolate and fresh strawberries. The unsalted butter gives the brownies a moist texture. Granulated sugar adds sweetness that balances the cocoa powder’s rich, dark flavor.
The eggs bind everything together, while the vanilla extract adds a lovely aroma. Flour provides structure, and baking powder helps the brownies rise.
I love using fresh strawberries here. They add a burst of flavor and color. Topping the brownies with chocolate ganache made from semi-sweet chocolate chips and heavy cream creates a rich finish.
This combination of flavors makes these brownies truly irresistible. Enjoy gathering these ingredients and getting ready to bake!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This helps the brownies bake evenly. Prepare your 9×13 inch baking pan by greasing it lightly with butter or using non-stick spray. You can also line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Make the Brownie Batter
In a large bowl, pour in 1 cup of melted butter and 2 cups of granulated sugar. Whisk them together until smooth. Add 4 large eggs, one at a time. Mix well after each egg. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until it blends nicely.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, sift together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Gradually fold this dry mix into the wet ingredients. Use a spatula to mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Bake the Brownies
Pour the brownie batter into your prepared pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center. It should come out with a few moist crumbs. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Prepare Chocolate Ganache
While the brownies cool, heat 1 cup of heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Do not let it boil. Remove the saucepan from heat and add 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips. Stir until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
Top with Strawberries
Once the brownies are fully cooled, pour the warm ganache over them. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. Carefully arrange sliced strawberries on top, pressing them gently into the chocolate.
Set and Serve
Let the ganache set at room temperature for about 30 minutes. You can also refrigerate it for quicker firming. Once the ganache has hardened, cut the brownies into neat squares with a sharp knife. Enjoy your delicious treat!
Tips & Tricks
Ensuring Perfect Brownies
To get the best brownies, avoid overmixing the batter. Mix just until the dry and wet ingredients blend. Overmixing makes them tough, and no one wants that! Always check for doneness with a toothpick. Insert it in the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs. This means they are perfectly baked.
Making Smooth Ganache
For smooth ganache, use quality chocolate. It makes a big difference in taste and texture. Heat the heavy cream until it simmers, not boils. Remove it from heat and add chocolate chips. Stir continuously to avoid lumps. This helps create a rich and glossy ganache that enhances your brownies.
Serving and Presentation
Make your brownies shine with decorative plating. Use a nice dish to serve them. Drizzle extra chocolate ganache over the top for flair. Garnish with whole strawberries for color and freshness. This simple touch makes your dessert look stunning and inviting.
Variations
Different Chocolate Options
You can switch up the chocolate for your brownies. Use dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor. They add depth and a slight bitterness that pairs well with sweet strawberries. You can also experiment with white chocolate ganache. This gives a creamy, sweet layer that contrasts nicely with the tartness of the strawberries.
Fruit Alternatives
If you want to change the fruit, try using raspberries or blueberries instead of strawberries. These berries add a pop of color and a different taste. You can layer other berries on the brownies too. Adding mixed berries gives a fun twist and makes your dessert even more colorful.
Gluten-Free Option
For those who need a gluten-free treat, simply replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. There are many good blends available that work well in baking. This way, everyone can enjoy these delicious brownies without worry!
Storage Info
How to Store Brownies
To keep your chocolate covered strawberry brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container. This keeps out air and moisture. You can keep them at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to store them longer, put them in the fridge. They will stay fresh for about a week when refrigerated.
Reheating Tips
If you want to enjoy them warm, you can reheat the brownies. Just warm them in the microwave for a few seconds. This makes the chocolate ganache soft and gooey again. While they taste best fresh, these brownies can stay good for up to a week. Enjoy them any time!
FAQs
Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and store them for later. I often make a batch the night before a party. Just keep them in an airtight container. They stay fresh for a few days. This way, you save time and still impress your guests.
How do I know when the brownies are done?
Use a toothpick to check for moist crumbs. Insert it into the center of the brownies. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they are done. Overbaking can lead to dry brownies, so check them closely. The perfect texture is soft and fudgy.
Can I freeze chocolate covered strawberry brownies?
Yes, they can be frozen for longer storage. Once they are fully cooled, cut them into squares. Wrap each square in plastic wrap or foil. Place them in a freezer bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you want one, thaw it overnight in the fridge.
You can make delicious chocolate brownies topped with fresh strawberries by following simple steps. We covered the ingredients, how to bake them, and create a rich ganache. Plus, you learned tips for perfect brownies and fun variations. In the end, this treat is easy to store or freeze. Enjoy sharing your yummy brownies and impressing friends with your skills! Happy baking!
