Craving a delicious dessert that combines sweet and fruity flavors? You’ll love these Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies! With rich chocolate, juicy strawberries, and a gooey texture, they are sure to impress your friends and family. I’ll guide you through simple steps to create this delightful treat that everyone will enjoy. Ready to dive in? Let’s get started on this mouthwatering journey!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Decadent Flavor: The combination of rich chocolate brownies with fresh strawberries creates a delightful contrast that is absolutely irresistible.
- Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward with simple steps, making it perfect for both experienced bakers and beginners.
- Impressive Presentation: The glossy chocolate coating and vibrant strawberries make these brownies a stunning dessert for any occasion.
- Versatile Treat: These brownies can be enjoyed as a sweet snack, a fancy dessert, or even at parties, catering to various tastes and preferences.
Ingredients
Detailed List of Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
When you make Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies, you need the best ingredients. Each one adds flavor and texture to your treat.
First, unsalted butter is key. It gives the brownies a rich, creamy taste. Melt it well before mixing.
Next, granulated sugar is your sweetener. It helps the brownies rise and gives them their sweet taste. Use two cups for a perfect balance.
Eggs are the magic ingredient. They bind the mix and create a soft, chewy texture. Use four large eggs for the best result.
Vanilla extract adds depth. A teaspoon brings all the flavors together. It makes the brownies taste more complex.
For the base, you need all-purpose flour. One cup helps create that classic brownie texture.
Cocoa powder is where the chocolate magic happens. One cup provides a deep, rich flavor.
Baking powder helps the brownies rise. Just half a teaspoon will do. Salt enhances the sweetness, so don’t skip the half teaspoon.
Fresh strawberries bring a fruity twist. Use one cup, hulled and halved, for bursts of flavor.
Semi-sweet chocolate chips make the topping even better. One cup melts nicely on top of the brownies.
Lastly, coconut oil is for melting the chocolate. One tablespoon will help it become smooth and shiny.
With these ingredients, you create a dessert that everyone will love!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Baking Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step helps the brownies bake evenly. Next, take a 9×13 inch baking pan. Grease it well with some butter, or line it with parchment paper. This makes it easy to lift the brownies out later.
Mixing Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, pour in 1 cup of melted unsalted butter. Add 2 cups of granulated sugar. Use a whisk to mix them until smooth. This blend should look shiny and creamy. Now, crack in 4 large eggs, one at a time. Mix well after each egg. Finally, stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. This adds a nice flavor.
Combining Dry Ingredients
Next, take another bowl. Sift in 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of cocoa powder, ½ teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Mixing these dry ingredients helps avoid lumps. Gently fold the dry mix into the wet mix. Be careful not to overmix; you want it just combined.
Layering Strawberries and Brownie Batter
Now it’s time to build the layers. Pour half of the brownie batter into your prepared pan. Smooth it out evenly. Take 1 cup of fresh strawberries, hulled and halved. Arrange these strawberries over the batter. Press them down just a bit. Then, pour the rest of the brownie batter over the strawberries. Spread it gently to cover them completely.
Baking Process
Place the pan in the oven. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You will know they are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Remember, you want some crumbs, not wet batter.
Preparing the Chocolate Coating
While the brownies bake, let’s prepare the chocolate coating. In a microwave-safe bowl, add 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips and 1 tablespoon of coconut oil. Microwave the bowl in 30-second bursts. Stir after each round until the chocolate is melted and smooth.
Final Touches and Serving
After baking, cool the brownies in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then, move them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, pour the melted chocolate over the brownies. Let it drizzle down the sides. You can spread it evenly or let it swirl for a fancy look. Allow the chocolate to set for about 30 minutes at room temp, or refrigerate for a quicker set. Finally, slice into squares and serve. Enjoy your delicious treat!
Tips & Tricks
How to Avoid Overmixing
To keep your brownies soft, avoid overmixing. When you add the dry ingredients, fold them in gently. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix until the dry and wet ingredients just come together. Overmixing makes brownies tough. Remember, a few lumps are okay!
Best Chocolate for Melting
For the best chocolate, use semi-sweet chocolate chips. They melt smoothly and give a rich flavor. If you want a sweeter taste, you can use milk chocolate. Always combine chocolate chips with a bit of coconut oil. This helps the chocolate melt evenly and gives it a nice shine.
Ensuring Even Strawberry Distribution
To spread the strawberries evenly, slice them in half and arrange them on the first layer of brownie batter. Press them down slightly so they stay in place. When you pour the second layer of batter, try to cover the strawberries fully. This method ensures every bite has a taste of strawberry and brownie.
Pro Tips
- Use Room Temperature Eggs: Allow your eggs to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before using them. This helps them incorporate better into the batter, resulting in a lighter texture.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until you see no dry flour. Overmixing can lead to dense brownies.
- Use Quality Chocolate: For the best flavor, use high-quality semi-sweet chocolate chips in the brownie batter and for melting. It makes a significant difference in taste.
- Let Brownies Cool Completely: Allow the brownies to cool completely before slicing. This helps them set and makes for cleaner cuts.
Variations
Adding Nuts or Other Fruits
You can make these brownies even more fun. Add nuts like walnuts or pecans. They add a nice crunch. Chop them up and mix them into the batter. You can also use other fruits. Try raspberries or blueberries for a twist on flavor. Just keep the fruit fresh and cut it into small pieces. This adds taste and texture to your brownies.
Gluten-Free Alternatives
If you want gluten-free brownies, you can switch the flour. Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. Make sure it has a good mix of starches and fibers. This helps keep the brownies soft and chewy. You can also check for gluten-free baking powder. This way, you can enjoy these treats without worry.
Vegan Substitute Options
Want to make these brownies vegan? You can do that too! Replace the eggs with flax eggs. Mix one tablespoon of flaxseed meal with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens. Use coconut oil instead of butter for a rich flavor. For sugar, choose a vegan-friendly brand. Now, everyone can enjoy these chocolate covered strawberry brownies!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Brownies
Store leftover brownies in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh. Place a piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They can last up to four days at room temperature. If you want them to stay fresh longer, refrigerate them. Just make sure to wrap them well.
Freezing Brownies for Later Use
Freezing brownies is a great option. First, let them cool completely. Then, slice them into squares. Wrap each square in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped brownies in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can stay frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them in the fridge or at room temperature.
Best Practices for Reheating
When reheating brownies, use the oven for the best results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the brownies on a baking sheet. Cover them with aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes. You can also microwave them for 15-20 seconds. Just be careful not to overheat, or they may become dry. Enjoy your delicious brownies warm!
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Just let them thaw first. Drain any extra liquid before adding them to your brownies. This will help keep the brownies from getting too soggy.
How do I know when the brownies are done?
You know the brownies are done when a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs. If it has wet batter, bake a bit longer. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes.
What other toppings can I add to the brownies?
You can add many toppings! Some great choices are crushed nuts, sprinkles, or even a drizzle of caramel. Try adding whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for extra fun.
Can I substitute ingredients for dietary restrictions?
Yes, you can make swaps! Use dairy-free butter for a vegan option. You can also use gluten-free flour if needed. Adjust the sugar or chocolate chips for lower sugar diets. Always check labels for allergens.
In this article, we explored the key ingredients for tasty brownies. We covered how to prepare, mix, and bake them step by step. You learned useful tips to avoid common mistakes and ways to make your brownies unique. Lastly, we shared how to store and reheat your treats.
Baking brownies can be fun and rewarding. With the right ingredients and techniques, you will create a sweet delight! Enjoy sharing your delicious creations with friends and family. Happy bakin
Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cocoa powder
- 0.5 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (for melting chocolate)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth and well combined.
- Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Sift in the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing it out evenly.
- Arrange the halved strawberries over the brownie batter, pressing them down slightly.
- Pour the remaining brownie batter over the strawberries and spread it out gently to cover them.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter).
- While the brownies are baking, prepare the chocolate coating. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until melted and completely smooth.
- Once the brownies are done baking, let them cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, pour the melted chocolate over the top of the brownies, allowing it to drizzle down the sides. You can spread it evenly or let it set in swirls for a decorative touch.
- Allow the chocolate to set for about 30 minutes at room temperature or refrigerate for quicker setting. Once set, slice into squares and serve.
