Chocolate‑Covered Strawberry Brownies
Introduction
These Chocolate‑Covered Strawberry Brownies are a decadent twist on two beloved classics: fudgy brownies and chocolate‑dipped strawberries. Imagine a rich, dark chocolate base topped with juicy fresh strawberries and finished with a silky drizzle of melted chocolate. They’re indulgent, elegant, and perfect for Valentine’s Day, dinner parties, or any night when you want a show‑stopping dessert.
Ingredients
For the Brownies
170 g (6 oz) unsalted butter
170 g (6 oz) dark chocolate, chopped
200 g (1 cup) sugar
100 g (½ cup) brown sugar
3 large eggs, room temperature
1 tsp vanilla extract
95 g (¾ cup) unsweetened cocoa powder
95 g (¾ cup) all‑purpose flour
½ tsp fine salt
1 tsp instant espresso powder (optional, for depth)
For the Topping
1½ cups fresh strawberries, halved or sliced
100 g (3.5 oz) dark or semi‑sweet chocolate, melted (for drizzle)
Step‑by‑Step Instructions
Preheat Oven
Heat oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and line a square baking pan with parchment paper.
Melt Butter & Chocolate
In a heatproof bowl, melt butter and chopped chocolate together (microwave or double boiler). Stir until smooth.
Mix Wet Ingredients
Whisk in sugar and brown sugar until glossy. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla.
Add Dry Ingredients
Sift cocoa powder, flour, salt, and espresso powder. Fold gently into wet mixture until just combined.
Bake Brownies
Pour batter into prepared pan. Bake 25–30 minutes, until edges are set but center is slightly soft. Cool completely.
Top with Strawberries
Arrange fresh strawberry halves over cooled brownies.
Drizzle Chocolate
Melt chocolate and drizzle generously over strawberries. Chill briefly to set before slicing.
Tips & Tricks
Extra fudgy: Slightly underbake for gooey texture.
Flavor boost: Add a splash of liqueur (like Chambord or Grand Marnier) to the drizzle.
Presentation: Slice brownies into squares and garnish with mint leaves.
Storage: Best enjoyed fresh due to strawberries, but refrigerate up to 2 days.
Variations
White Chocolate Drizzle: For contrast and sweetness.
Berry Mix: Add raspberries or blueberries alongside strawberries.
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped hazelnuts or almonds before drizzling.
Valentine’s Style: Cut brownies into heart shapes with a cookie cutter.
🍽 Serving Suggestions
Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Pair with espresso or red wine for a sophisticated dessert.
Present on a tiered platter for parties.
FAQs
Q: Can I use boxed brownie mix?
A: Yes, just bake as directed and add the strawberry‑chocolate topping.
Q: Can I make ahead?
A: Bake brownies a day ahead, but add strawberries and drizzle just before serving.
Q: Can I use frozen strawberries?
A: Fresh is best — frozen berries release too much liquid.
Nutritional Notes (Approx. per serving, 12 pieces)
Calories: ~250 kcal
Protein: 4g
Fat: 12g
Carbs: 32g
Conclusion
These Chocolate‑Covered Strawberry Brownies are rich, fruity, and irresistibly elegant. They combine the indulgence of fudgy chocolate with the freshness of strawberries, making them a dessert that looks as good as it tastes.