Few desserts capture the magic of indulgence quite like Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies. Imagine fudgy brownies topped with fresh, juicy strawberries and finished with a smooth layer of rich chocolate ganache—each bite offers a perfect mix of sweetness and depth. This easy dessert doesn’t just satisfy your sweet tooth; it looks stunning on any occasion, from Valentine’s Day to casual family gatherings.
If you love creative chocolate desserts, you’ll also enjoy trying these Peppermint Brownies that deliver the same fudgy texture with a refreshing twist.
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The Perfect Blend: Why Chocolate and Strawberries Work So Well
A Match Made in Dessert Heaven
Chocolate and strawberries have long been known as the ultimate flavor pair. The reason lies in the perfect balance of taste and texture: the bitterness of cocoa complements the natural sweetness and acidity of strawberries. Together, they create a flavor experience that feels luxurious yet comforting—something both adults and kids adore. That’s why recipes like Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies are popular for Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, or even self-care weekends when you want something special but easy to make.
Nutritional Perks of Strawberries and Dark Chocolate
While these brownies are undeniably a treat, they do bring a few surprising benefits. Strawberries are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, which help boost your immune system. When paired with dark chocolate—known for its heart-healthy flavonoids—the combination adds a touch of nutritional value to your indulgence. Using semi-sweet or dark chocolate also balances the sweetness, creating a more refined flavor profile.
Best Occasions to Serve Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
These brownies are perfect for a variety of celebrations. Whether it’s a romantic Valentine’s dinner, a Mother’s Day brunch, or a simple holiday dessert table, they never fail to impress. Their glossy ganache finish and vibrant strawberry topping make them a visual showstopper. If you’re planning for a dessert platter, consider pairing them with light treats like Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake or Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Turnovers for a colorful, crowd-pleasing mix.
Ingredients for the Best Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
Basic Ingredients You’ll Need
Making Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies is easier than it looks. You only need a few staple ingredients, and most can already be found in your pantry.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Brownie Mix | 1 box (for 8×8 pan) | Choose a rich, dark chocolate mix for best flavor |
| Fresh Strawberries | 1 lb | Washed, stems removed, and halved |
| Semi-sweet Chocolate Chips | 1½ cups | You can mix half semi-sweet and half dark chocolate |
| Heavy Cream | ¾ cup (up to 1 cup) | For smooth, glossy ganache |
| Butter (optional) | 1 tbsp | Adds shine and richness to the ganache |
Pro Tip: If you prefer making brownies from scratch, you can substitute your favorite homemade base. The box mix saves time, but the flavor payoff from scratch recipes is unbeatable.
Substitutions and Variations
- Gluten-free version: Use a gluten-free brownie mix and check your chocolate chips for gluten-free labeling.
- Dairy-free option: Swap heavy cream with coconut cream for a subtle tropical flavor.
- Fruity twist: Try using raspberries or blueberries for a bright, tangy finish.
- Extra indulgence: Top with a drizzle of white chocolate for contrast.
For more creative dessert inspiration, check out these Frosted Coffee Brownies that blend caffeine and chocolate in the most decadent way.
Choosing the Best Strawberries for This Recipe
When it comes to picking strawberries, freshness matters. Choose firm, bright red berries with green, vibrant tops. Avoid overly soft or watery ones—they’ll release too much moisture onto the brownies. For uniform presentation, slice strawberries evenly and pat them dry before layering.
How to Make Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies Step by Step
Step 1: Bake the Brownie Base
Start by preheating your oven to the temperature listed on your brownie mix box—usually around 350°F (175°C). Prepare the mix according to package instructions, pour into an 8×8-inch pan, and bake until the center is set.
Let the brownies cool completely before adding toppings. If they’re warm, the strawberries and ganache will melt unevenly.
Step 2: Prepare and Arrange the Strawberries
Wash the strawberries gently, remove the stems, and cut each berry in half lengthwise. Place the halves seed side up over the brownie surface. Try to cover the surface evenly so every slice gets a bite of fruit.
If your strawberries are large, cut them smaller to make the layers neater.
Step 3: Make the Perfect Chocolate Ganache
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine your chocolate chips and heavy cream. Heat for 25 seconds, then stir. Repeat for 20-second intervals, stirring thoroughly each time until smooth and glossy.
The secret to silky ganache is patience—don’t overheat it. Stirring well allows the residual heat to melt the chocolate evenly.
Step 4: Assemble and Chill
Once your ganache is ready, pour it evenly over the strawberries. Use a spatula to smooth the top so all fruit is covered.
Refrigerate for 20–30 minutes or until the ganache firms up slightly. It shouldn’t harden completely; the goal is a soft, velvety finish.
When ready to serve, slice into squares. These brownies taste best within 24 hours, as strawberries naturally release moisture over time.
For another creative twist on chocolate-covered fruit, try these Chocolate Covered Pomegranate Yogurt Clusters, a healthier spin on the same flavor combination.
Tips for the Best Texture and Flavor
Avoiding Soggy Brownies
To prevent sogginess, always let the brownies cool completely before adding strawberries. Pat your fruit dry and avoid stacking thick layers of ganache.
Storage and Serving Tips
These brownies keep best in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. If you need to make them ahead, bake the brownie base a day before, and assemble the topping just before serving.
How to Double or Scale the Recipe
For parties or potlucks, double the recipe using a 13×9-inch pan. Use two boxes of brownie mix, double the strawberries, and make an extra batch of ganache.
Creative Variations of Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
Valentine’s Day Edition
To make these brownies the ultimate romantic dessert, cut them into heart shapes using a cookie cutter once the ganache has set. Add a white chocolate drizzle or edible gold dust for a beautiful finish. For extra Valentine’s flair, try adding pink-tinted chocolate chips to your ganache mix.
Gourmet Touches
Give your brownies a bakery-style twist by adding chopped toasted hazelnuts or crushed freeze-dried strawberries on top of the ganache. These small details enhance texture and visual appeal.
You can also experiment with layered chocolate—combine dark and white ganache for a marbled look. Similar gourmet-style desserts like Peppermint Brownies are perfect examples of how simple recipes can look professional with minimal effort.
Kid-Friendly Version
If you’re making these for a family gathering, cut them into bite-sized squares for easy handling. Kids love when desserts are fun and shareable. Add colorful sprinkles or a drizzle of white chocolate for a playful finish. Pair them with Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake for a family-friendly dessert spread.
FAQs about Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
Can I use store-bought brownie mix?
Yes! Boxed brownie mix works perfectly for this recipe. It saves time while delivering a fudgy, chocolatey base. You can also use homemade brownies for an even richer flavor.
How long do these brownies last?
They’re best enjoyed within 24 hours, as strawberries can release moisture that softens the brownie layer. Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator.
Can I make them ahead of time?
You can prepare the brownie base up to a day ahead and store it tightly wrapped. Add the strawberries and ganache just before serving for the best texture and presentation.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Fresh strawberries are ideal. Frozen ones tend to release too much liquid as they thaw, which can make the brownies soggy.
Can I double the recipe for a larger batch?
Absolutely. Just use a 13×9-inch pan and double all ingredients. Make sure to keep the strawberry and ganache layers balanced.
Conclusion
Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies are the perfect marriage of elegance and ease. Their bold chocolate flavor, juicy fruit topping, and glossy ganache make them irresistible for any occasion—from Valentine’s Day to weekend treats. With just a few ingredients, you can turn a simple brownie mix into a stunning, crowd-pleasing dessert.
If you love this blend of chocolate and fruit, you’ll also enjoy our Chocolate Cherry Brownies for a similar flavor with a tart twist. For even more dessert inspiration, check out this Food Network guide on chocolate ganache techniques to take your baking skills to the next level.
PrintChocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies are rich, fudgy brownies topped with fresh strawberries and a smooth chocolate ganache, making them the perfect easy dessert for Valentine’s Day or any celebration.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 9 large squares or 12 smaller servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 box Brownie Mix (for 8×8-inch pan)
- 1 lb Fresh Strawberries, stems removed and halved
- 1½ cups Semi-sweet Chocolate Chips (or mix with dark chocolate)
- ¾ cup Heavy Cream (up to 1 cup if needed)
- 1 tbsp Butter (optional, for shine)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare brownie mix according to the package instructions. Pour batter into an 8×8-inch baking pan.
- Bake until the center is set. Remove from oven and allow brownies to cool completely.
- Wash and dry strawberries thoroughly. Remove stems and cut in half lengthwise.
- Arrange strawberries evenly over the cooled brownies, seed side up.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and heavy cream. Heat for 25 seconds, then stir. Repeat in 20-second intervals until smooth and glossy.
- Pour ganache evenly over the strawberries, spreading gently with a spatula to cover them.
- Chill in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes until ganache firms slightly but remains soft.
- Slice and serve within 24 hours for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use dark chocolate to balance sweetness.
- Pat strawberries dry before layering to avoid soggy brownies.
- For a gluten-free version, use a certified gluten-free brownie mix.
- To double the recipe, use a 13×9-inch pan and double all ingredients.
- Best served chilled and consumed within a day.
