Tired of desserts that look impressive but fall flat on flavor? You’re not alone! These Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies deliver that perfect balance of decadent chocolate and fresh fruit that will have everyone asking for your recipe. The fudgy brownie base, topped with chocolate-dipped strawberries, creates a show-stopping dessert that tastes as good as it looks.
Hi, I’m Ethan Miller, the heart behind FoodyDish! I’ve spent years perfecting brownie recipes, and these Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies have become my signature dessert for special occasions. The combination of rich chocolate and juicy strawberries creates a magical flavor pairing that elevates the humble brownie to gourmet status.
In this recipe, I’ll share everything you need to know from selecting the best ingredients to decorating techniques that will impress your guests. Let’s create a dessert that’s worthy of center stage!
Why These Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies Work
- Uses pantry staples with fresh strawberries for a luxurious treat
- Quick prep time (just 15 minutes!) before baking
- Perfect for Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, or anytime you want to impress
- The perfect balance of rich chocolate and fresh fruit flavors
- Looks professional but is surprisingly simple to make
Choosing the Right Ingredients for Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
Best Chocolate for Brownies
The foundation of exceptional Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies begins with quality chocolate. I recommend using 70% dark chocolate for the brownie base—it provides the perfect balance of sweetness and deep chocolate flavor. For the strawberry coating, semi-sweet chocolate chips work beautifully as they melt smoothly and set with a nice snap.
Selecting Perfect Strawberries
Look for bright red, medium-sized strawberries with fresh green caps. They should be firm but not hard, fragrant, and free of soft spots or bruises. Pat them completely dry before dipping to ensure the chocolate adheres properly.
Substitutions
If strawberries aren’t in season, you can substitute raspberries or use a layer of strawberry preserves beneath the chocolate topping. For a gluten-free version, almond flour can replace all-purpose flour with minimal recipe adjustments.
Ingredients & Prep for Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
Brownie Base Essentials
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture
- High-quality dark chocolate: Creates fudgy texture
- Granulated sugar: Balances the cocoa’s bitterness
- Eggs: Provide structure and richness
- Vanilla extract: Enhances chocolate flavor
- All-purpose flour: Gives structure without toughness
- Salt: Enhances overall flavor profile
Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Topping
- 1 pound fresh strawberries
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil (helps chocolate set properly)
- Optional: white chocolate for drizzling
Pantry Staples
- Cocoa powder for dusting
- Confectioners’ sugar for serving
- Sea salt for sprinkling (enhances chocolate flavor)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
Pre-Cooking Prep for Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C)
- Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal
- Wash and thoroughly dry strawberries, leaving stems intact
- Melt butter and chocolate together in a double boiler, stirring until smooth
Baking Method for Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
- Whisk sugar into melted chocolate mixture until incorporated
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition
- Fold in flour and salt just until combined (don’t overmix!)
- Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until center is just set (a toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs)
Chocolate Dipping for Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
- Melt chocolate chips with coconut oil in a microwave in 30-second intervals
- Hold strawberries by the stem and dip into melted chocolate
- Place dipped strawberries directly onto cooled brownie surface
- Optional: drizzle with melted white chocolate for contrast
Setting and Serving Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
- Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set chocolate completely
- Use parchment paper to lift brownies out of pan
- Cut with a warm knife for clean edges
- Let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving for best texture
Pro Tips for Perfect Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
Avoiding Common Mistakes with Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
- Don’t overbake! Brownies should be fudgy in the center
- Pat strawberries completely dry before dipping to prevent chocolate from seizing
- Add a tiny pinch of salt to chocolate coating to enhance flavor
- Allow brownies to cool completely before adding strawberries
Tool Recommendations for Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
- Digital thermometer to ensure chocolate melts at the right temperature
- Offset spatula for smoothing brownie batter
- Parchment paper for easy removal
- Small squeeze bottles for precise chocolate drizzling
Storage & Freshness for Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
- Best served within 24 hours of making
- Can be stored in refrigerator for up to 2 days
- For longer storage, freeze brownie base without strawberries for up to 3 months
Looking for more delicious dessert inspiration? Check out my Pinterest board for stunning food photography and creative recipe ideas: FoodyDish on Pinterest. You’ll find plenty more show-stopping desserts to try!
Flavor Variations for Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
Gourmet Upgrade for Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
- Add 1 tablespoon espresso powder to brownie batter to intensify chocolate flavor
- Infuse melted chocolate with orange zest for a citrus twist
- Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top for a sweet-salty contrast
Dietary Adaptations for Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
- Substitute coconut oil for butter and use dairy-free chocolate for vegan version
- Use almond flour and sugar substitute for keto-friendly option
- Add nuts for extra protein and texture
Seasonal Twists for Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
| Season | Flavor Addition | Presentation Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Strawberry puree in batter | Garnish with edible flowers |
| Summer | Add fresh mint | Serve with vanilla bean ice cream |
| Fall | Cinnamon and nutmeg | Dust with cocoa powder |
| Winter | Peppermint extract | Drizzle with white chocolate |
Serving Suggestions for Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
- Serve with a dollop of fresh whipped cream for extra decadence
- Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a warm-cold contrast
- Pair with fresh berries for a fruit-forward dessert platter
- Dust with powdered sugar just before serving for a professional finish
- Present on a decorative platter with extra chocolate-dipped strawberries around the edges
FAQs About Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
Can I make these Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies ahead of time?
You can make the brownie base up to 2 days ahead, but add the chocolate-covered strawberries within a few hours of serving for the freshest result.
Why did my chocolate seize when dipping the strawberries?
This usually happens when moisture gets into the chocolate. Make sure your strawberries are completely dry before dipping.
Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?
Fresh strawberries work best for dipping in chocolate. Frozen strawberries release too much moisture when thawed.
How do I get perfectly clean cuts when slicing these brownies?
Run your knife under hot water, wipe dry, then slice. Repeat between cuts for professional-looking edges.
Can I use cocoa powder instead of melted chocolate in the brownie base?
Yes, but the texture will be different. If using cocoa powder, increase the butter to maintain moisture.
Conclusion
These Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies are more than just a dessert they’re an experience that combines rich chocolate decadence with fresh fruit in the most beautiful way. The contrast of fudgy brownie with juicy strawberries creates a memorable treat perfect for special occasions or anytime you want to bring a little extra joy to the table.
I’d love to see your creations! Over 3,000 home bakers have shared their versions of this recipe with me, each adding their personal touch. Tag @foodydish on social media so I can admire your work!
Now, gather your ingredients and prepare to steal the show with these irresistible Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies!
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How Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies Steal the Show
- Total Time: 50 mins
- Yield: 16 brownies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Rich, fudgy chocolate brownies topped with a layer of fresh strawberry frosting and finished with smooth melted chocolate the perfect dessert that tastes just like a chocolate-covered strawberry in brownie form.
Ingredients
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
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 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup unsalted butter (for frosting), softened
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1/3 cup strawberry puree (fresh or frozen strawberries blended)
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
6 oz semi-sweet chocolate (for topping)
1 tsp coconut oil (optional, for smoother melting)
Fresh strawberries for garnish
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter and sugar until smooth.
3. Add eggs and vanilla extract, and whisk until glossy.
4. Sift in cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder; stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chocolate chips.
6. Spread batter evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
7. Allow brownies to cool completely before frosting.
8. For the strawberry frosting, beat butter until creamy.
9. Add powdered sugar, strawberry puree, and vanilla extract; beat until smooth and fluffy.
10. Spread strawberry frosting evenly over cooled brownies.
11. Melt chocolate (and coconut oil, if using) in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second intervals until smooth.
12. Pour melted chocolate over the strawberry layer and spread evenly.
13. Refrigerate for 30 minutes, or until chocolate is set.
14. Slice into squares and top each piece with a fresh strawberry before serving.
Notes
For a stronger strawberry flavor, reduce the strawberry puree slightly to concentrate it.
Use high-quality cocoa powder and chocolate for the richest brownie flavor.
Store brownies in the refrigerator for up to 5 days and serve chilled or at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 25 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 27g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: chocolate covered strawberry brownies, chocolate strawberry dessert, valentine brownies