Get ready to indulge in a sweet treat that combines the best of both worlds! My Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies recipe brings rich, fudgy brownies together with fresh strawberries and creamy chocolate ganache. This step-by-step guide makes it easy for you to impress your friends and family at any gathering. Let’s dive into the delectable ingredients and simple instructions that will have them begging for seconds!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
– 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cocoa powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (for ganache)
– 1 cup additional strawberries (for topping)
– Sprinkles (optional, for decoration)
To make these brownies, I use simple, fresh ingredients. Unsalted butter gives the brownies a rich taste. Granulated sugar makes them sweet and soft. The eggs add moisture and help bind everything together.
Vanilla extract brings a lovely flavor. All-purpose flour and cocoa powder form the base of the brownies. Baking powder helps them rise. A pinch of salt balances the sweetness.
Fresh strawberries offer a burst of flavor. Semi-sweet chocolate chips enhance the chocolatey goodness. Heavy cream creates a smooth ganache. And sprinkles? They just make everything look fun!
Optional Ingredient Substitutions
– Vegan alternatives: Use coconut oil and flax eggs instead of butter and eggs.
– Gluten-free options: Substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free blend.
These swaps keep the brownies tasty for everyone. Whether you want vegan treats or gluten-free bites, you can enjoy this recipe. Have fun experimenting!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Brownie Batter
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step helps the brownies bake evenly. Next, take a 9×13 inch baking pan. Grease it and line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang. This makes it easy to lift the brownies out later.
Now, let’s melt the butter. In a medium saucepan, place 1 cup of unsalted butter over low heat. Stir it gently until melted. Once melted, take it off the heat and let it cool a bit.
After cooling, mix in 2 cups of granulated sugar. Combine them well until smooth. Next, add 4 large eggs, one at a time. Mix well after each addition. Then, stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until everything is blended nicely.
Combining Dry and Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of cocoa powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. This step makes the brownies light and fluffy. Slowly add the dry mix to the wet mix. Stir until just combined; don’t overmix.
Now, it’s time for the star ingredient: strawberries! Fold in 1 cup of hulled and sliced fresh strawberries gently. Make sure they are evenly spread in the batter. This adds a burst of flavor to your brownies.
Baking and Cooling
Next, pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan. Spread it out evenly with a spatula. Place the pan in your preheated oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes. To check if they are done, insert a toothpick in the center. It should come out with a few moist crumbs.
Once baked, let the brownies cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Use the parchment paper to lift them out carefully. Allow them to cool completely on a wire rack before adding the ganache. This cooling step is key for perfect brownies.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Brownies
To ensure even baking, always preheat your oven. This helps the brownies rise and bake well. Use a 9×13 inch pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal. Check the brownies a few minutes before the time ends. Insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they are done.
For the best brownie texture, mix the wet and dry ingredients gently. Over-mixing can lead to tough brownies. Fold in the sliced strawberries carefully, so they stay intact. This adds moisture and flavor.
Ganache Preparation Tips
To achieve the perfect chocolate ganache consistency, heat the heavy cream until it simmers. Remove it from the heat before adding chocolate chips. Stir until smooth. If it feels too thin, let it cool for a bit before using it.
For an even coating, pour the ganache over the cooled brownies. Use a spatula to spread it out. This creates a smooth layer. Be sure to let it set before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
For special occasions, serve the brownies on a decorative platter. Place fresh whole strawberries beside them for a pop of color. A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a nice touch, too!
Pair these brownies with a glass of cold milk or a cup of hot coffee. The rich chocolate flavor works well with both. You can also top them with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra delight.
Variations
Vegan Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
For a vegan version of these brownies, we can swap out a few key ingredients.
– Butter: Use coconut oil or vegan butter. Both options work well and keep the brownies rich.
– Eggs: Replace each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water).
– Heavy Cream: Use full-fat coconut milk for the ganache. It gives a creamy texture without dairy.
These changes will create delicious vegan brownies that everyone can enjoy.
Gluten-Free Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
If you need gluten-free brownies, there are easy swaps to make.
– Flour: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Look for one that has xanthan gum in it, which helps with texture.
– Baking Powder: Ensure your baking powder is labeled gluten-free to avoid any issues.
– Mixing: Follow the same mixing steps, but be careful not to overmix the batter. This keeps the brownies light and chewy.
With these swaps, you can enjoy chocolate-covered strawberry brownies without gluten.
Flavor Variations
You can get creative with flavors and toppings for these brownies!
– Toppings: Add crushed nuts, shredded coconut, or colorful sprinkles on top of the ganache for extra crunch and fun.
– Mix-ins: Try folding in white chocolate chips or crushed cookies into the brownie batter. This adds unique flavors and textures.
– Chocolate: Instead of semi-sweet chocolate, experiment with dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even flavored chocolate. Each choice gives a new twist to the brownies.
These variations let you personalize your brownies and impress your friends!
Storage Info
How to Store Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
To keep your brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps them stay moist. You can place parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking. Store at room temperature for the best taste. Keep them away from heat and light to maintain quality.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to keep brownies for longer, freezing works great. First, let them cool completely. Then, wrap each brownie tightly in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer bag or container. This method helps prevent freezer burn. To defrost, take them out and let them sit at room temperature for around 30 minutes.
Shelf Life
Chocolate covered strawberry brownies can last quite a while. At room temperature, they stay fresh for about 3-4 days. If you store them in the fridge, they can last up to a week. When frozen, they can last up to 3 months. Just remember, the sooner you enjoy them, the better!
FAQs
What can I substitute for butter in this recipe?
You can use several common alternatives to unsalted butter. Here are some options:
– Coconut oil: Use the same amount. It adds a slight coconut flavor.
– Vegetable oil: This can replace butter in a 1:1 ratio.
– Applesauce: Use half the amount of applesauce for a lighter brownie.
– Vegan butter: Great for a dairy-free option. Use it in equal amounts.
Each substitute may change the taste and texture, so choose based on your needs.
Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these brownies ahead of time. Here are some best practices:
– Bake and cool: Make the brownies and let them cool completely.
– Store: Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
– Ganache: You can prepare the ganache in advance too. Just reheat it slightly before pouring.
– Freezing: For longer storage, wrap the brownies tightly and freeze. They can last up to three months.
This way, you can enjoy them whenever you want!
How do I achieve a fudgy brownie texture?
To get that dense, fudgy brownie texture, follow these tips:
– Use less flour: Stick to the recipe’s flour amount. Too much flour makes brownies cakey.
– Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined when adding dry ingredients. This keeps them moist.
– Use chocolate chips: Adding chocolate chips boosts the fudginess.
– Bake slightly under: Take them out when a toothpick shows some moist crumbs.
These steps help create that rich, fudgy bite everyone loves.
What is the best way to cut brownies?
To cut brownies neatly without crumbling, try these techniques:
– Cool completely: Let the brownies cool fully before cutting.
– Use a sharp knife: A clean, sharp knife makes cleaner cuts.
– Warm the knife: Dip the knife in hot water and wipe it dry before cutting. This helps with smoother slices.
– Cut in a grid: Make straight cuts, dividing them into squares for even pieces.
These methods will give you perfect brownie squares every time.
You now know how to make delicious chocolate covered strawberry brownies. We covered the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. Substitutions are available for vegan and gluten-free options. Remember to store your brownies correctly for lasting freshness. With these methods, you’ll bake perfectly fudgy brownies every time. Try different flavors or toppings to make them your own. Enjoy sharing these treats with friends or family, and feel proud of your baking skills!
