Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies are the ultimate indulgent dessert—fudgy, rich brownies topped with a layer of sweet strawberries and finished with a glossy chocolate coating. Inspired by the classic romantic treat, this recipe transforms simple brownies into an elegant and irresistible dessert perfect for Valentine’s Day, date nights, or whenever you want to impress with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These brownies combine everything you love in one decadent bite: gooey chocolate, fresh strawberries, and a melt-in-your-mouth topping. They’re easy to make, look stunning, and are naturally crowd-pleasing. The fresh strawberries cut through the richness of the brownies and chocolate topping, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures. You don’t need any special equipment, and you can use homemade or boxed brownie mix—making this recipe as easy or as gourmet as you like.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Brownie batter (homemade or boxed mix)
- Fresh strawberries, sliced
- Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
- Coconut oil or butter (for melting the chocolate)
- Vanilla extract (optional)
- Pinch of sea salt (optional, for finishing)
directions
- Preheat your oven and prepare the brownie batter according to your chosen recipe or box instructions.
- Bake the brownies in a parchment-lined pan and let them cool completely.
- Arrange an even layer of sliced strawberries over the cooled brownies.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips with coconut oil in 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Pour the melted chocolate over the strawberry layer and spread evenly with a spatula.
- Optional: sprinkle with sea salt or a few extra strawberry slices for garnish.
- Chill in the refrigerator for 30–60 minutes or until the chocolate topping is set.
- Slice into squares and serve.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 12 brownies and takes 15 minutes to prepare (plus baking and cooling time). Total time: approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, including chilling.
Variations
- White chocolate topping: Use melted white chocolate for a colorful twist.
- Berry blend: Use a mix of fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries for variety.
- Nutty version: Add chopped hazelnuts, almonds, or pecans on top before the chocolate sets.
- Vegan version: Use a vegan brownie mix, dairy-free chocolate, and plant-based butter or coconut oil.
- Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free brownie mix or your favorite gluten-free recipe.
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let them sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before serving for the best texture. These brownies are not ideal for freezing due to the fresh strawberries.
FAQs
Can I use boxed brownie mix?
Yes, a boxed mix works perfectly for this recipe and saves time. Just follow the package directions.
Do I need to chill the brownies before topping them?
Yes, cooling helps keep the strawberries and chocolate layer from melting or becoming soggy.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Fresh strawberries are recommended, as frozen ones tend to release too much moisture and can make the brownies soggy.
How do I slice them without cracking the chocolate?
Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water and wipe clean between each slice for clean cuts.
Can I add strawberry jam instead of fresh strawberries?
You can, but the result will be sweeter and less fresh-tasting. For best results, use jam in addition to fresh berries or as a swirl in the batter.
Is coconut oil necessary for melting the chocolate?
It’s optional, but it helps the chocolate melt smoothly and adds a nice sheen once set.
How long do these brownies keep?
They’re best within 2–3 days and should be stored in the fridge due to the fresh strawberries.
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark?
Yes, but keep in mind milk chocolate will make the brownies sweeter overall.
Do I need to remove the strawberry tops?
Yes, remove stems and hull the strawberries before slicing and layering.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can make them the day before. Just store in the fridge and slice right before serving.
Conclusion
Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies are a dreamy dessert that blends the richness of fudgy brownies with the freshness of strawberries and the elegance of a chocolate shell. They’re beautiful enough for special occasions yet easy enough for everyday indulgence. Whether you’re making them for loved ones or treating yourself, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your dessert rotation.
Print
Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes (plus chilling)
- Yield: 9 squares 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies combine rich, fudgy brownies with a layer of fresh strawberries and a smooth chocolate ganache topping. These decadent bars are perfect for Valentine’s Day, date nights, or any special dessert occasion.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp baking powder
- 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- For the ganache:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Remove from heat and stir in sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
- Whisk in cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder until just combined. Pour batter into prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs. Let cool completely.
- Arrange halved strawberries cut-side down in a single layer on top of the cooled brownies.
- To make ganache, heat heavy cream in a saucepan or microwave until steaming but not boiling. Pour over chocolate chips and let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.
- Pour ganache over the strawberries and spread gently to cover. Chill for 1–2 hours until set.
- Slice with a sharp knife, wiping clean between cuts for neat edges.
Notes
- Use ripe but firm strawberries for best results and clean slices.
- Brownies can be made a day ahead; add strawberries and ganache before serving.
- Store in the refrigerator and enjoy within 2–3 days for best texture.
- Try with white or dark chocolate ganache for a variation.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 26g
- Sodium: 95mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
