Description
Delight in these rich and fudgy Chocolate Strawberry Brownies featuring a luscious chocolate ganache topping layered with fresh strawberries. Perfectly balanced with a moist cocoa-infused base and a creamy, decadent finish, this recipe offers a delicious twist to classic brownies, ideal for dessert or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Brownie Base
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) 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
Topping
- 1 cup chopped fresh strawberries
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy removal of the brownies.
- Melt Butter and Mix Wet Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over low heat. Remove from heat and immediately stir in the granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Sift or add the unsweetened cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder to the butter mixture. Gently stir until just combined to avoid overmixing, then pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
- Bake the Brownies: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Test doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—it should come out with a few moist crumbs. Remove from oven and allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan.
- Add Strawberries: Once cooled, evenly arrange the chopped fresh strawberries over the surface of the brownies to prepare for the ganache topping.
- Make Chocolate Ganache: Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan or microwave until it just begins to simmer. Pour the hot cream over the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl, letting it sit for 1 to 2 minutes before stirring gently until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Top and Set: Pour the prepared ganache evenly over the strawberries, gently spreading it to cover. Refrigerate the entire pan for at least 1 hour to allow the ganache to set firmly before slicing into 9 to 9 squares and serving.
Notes
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor and texture under the ganache.
- Ensure the brownies are completely cooled before adding strawberries and ganache to prevent melting and soggy toppings.
- For a deeper chocolate flavor, consider using dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet.
- Storing the brownies in the refrigerator will keep them fresh and the ganache firm.
- These brownies can be brought to room temperature before serving for a softer ganache texture.
