If you have a soft spot for rich and fudgy desserts with a fruity twist, then you are in for an absolute treat with this Strawberry Chocolate Brownies Recipe. These brownies combine the deep, indulgent flavor of dark chocolate with the fresh, vibrant burst of strawberries baked right into the luscious batter. It’s the kind of dessert that makes you savor every bite, balancing sweetness with a hint of tang, and boasting a perfectly tender crumb beneath a shiny, crackly top. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to become a well-loved favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, essential ingredients that each play a star role in creating the perfect strawberry chocolate brownie. From the silky melted dark chocolate and buttery richness to the fluffy eggs and bright, fresh strawberries, everything comes together to delight your taste buds.
- 200 g dark chocolate (roughly chopped or chips): Use good quality dark chocolate for the best rich flavor and smooth texture.
- 100 g unsalted butter (cubed): Adds moisture and a creamy bite while helping create that melt-in-your-mouth feel.
- 4 large eggs: Provide structure and a bit of lift so the brownies aren’t too dense.
- 200 g soft light brown sugar: Adds subtle molasses notes with a touch of sweetness and chewiness.
- 100 g plain flour: The backbone of the batter, holding everything together without overpowering the chocolate.
- 40 g cocoa/cacao powder: Boosts the chocolate intensity and deepens the color beautifully.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor and adds a warm, aromatic depth.
- 200 g strawberries (hulled and halved): Fresh, juicy, and tangy, these make all the difference for that irresistible fruity pop.
How to Make Strawberry Chocolate Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Melt the Chocolate and Butter
Start by gently melting the dark chocolate and butter together. Either use a small pan over very low heat or a bain-marie setup to ensure nothing burns—the key to silky smooth chocolate without any graininess. Stir frequently and then set aside to cool slightly before adding it to the batter.
Step 2: Prepare the Oven and Mix the Eggs
Preheat your oven to 160C (320F or Gas Mark 3). Meanwhile, whisk the eggs with brown sugar and vanilla extract until light and slightly foamy—this will give the brownies a lovely softness and a bit of lift.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients with Egg Mixture
Sift in the plain flour and cocoa powder over the egg mixture; folding them gently helps prevent overworking the batter, which could make the brownies tough. Once combined, pour in the melted chocolate and butter mixture and give it one final mix until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Prepare the Baking Tray and Arrange Strawberries
Line an 8-inch (24cm) square baking tray with baking paper, leaving some overlap to help with removing the brownies later. Lightly buttering the tray first enhances that easy-release factor. Pour the batter in, smoothing it out evenly. Then place the strawberry halves cut side down, gently pressing them just a bit into the batter so they stay put during baking.
Step 5: Bake Until Perfect
Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when a shiny crust forms on top, and the brownie no longer jiggles when you move the pan. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs to ensure fudgy perfection without raw batter.
Step 6: Cool and Enjoy
Let the brownies cool completely in the pan. If you can resist the temptation, refrigerate them for a couple of hours—it really helps with cleaner slicing and enhances the texture. Bring to room temperature before serving, and get ready to indulge!
How to Serve Strawberry Chocolate Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
A dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted white chocolate adds elegance and a touch of extra sweetness on top. Fresh strawberries or a few mint leaves on the side also brighten the presentation and complement the fruity flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
For a truly decadent experience, serve these brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Alternatively, a cup of freshly brewed coffee or hot chocolate makes the perfect cozy pairing.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the brownies into smaller bite-sized pieces for a party platter, or layer chunks and crumbled brownies in a dessert trifle with whipped cream and strawberry sauce to highlight this fun strawberry chocolate brownies recipe in a whole new way.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them soft and fresh, or refrigerated for up to a week if your kitchen is warm.
Freezing
These brownies freeze beautifully. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to avoid freezer burn, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving for the best texture.
Reheating
To enjoy the brownies warm, gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a low oven at 150C for about 5-8 minutes. Warm brownies taste almost freshly baked, especially with a little ice cream on the side.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?
While fresh strawberries are ideal for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen ones if needed—just make sure to thaw and pat them dry well to prevent excess moisture from affecting the brownies’ texture.
What if I don’t have cocoa powder, can I use extra chocolate instead?
Cocoa powder gives the brownies their intense chocolate flavor and dry texture. Using extra chocolate will add richness but may alter the consistency, making the batter wetter and possibly more dense. It’s best to stick with cocoa powder if you can.
Can I substitute the butter with oil?
Butter adds flavor and richness that oil can’t quite replicate in brownies, but you can substitute with a neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil. Use about 80% of the butter amount. Expect a slightly different texture and flavor.
How do I know when the brownies are perfectly baked?
Look for a shiny cracked top and a firm but slightly soft center that no longer jiggles when nudged. A toothpick inserted should come out with moist crumbs but no wet batter. This ensures fudgy brownies that aren’t dry.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the plain flour for a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum or other binding agents for the best results.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, you are going to fall head over heels for this Strawberry Chocolate Brownies Recipe. It strikes just the right balance between fruity freshness and chocolate indulgence, making every bite irresistible. Whether you’re treating yourself or impressing friends, this recipe is an absolute keeper that’s easy to make yet endlessly delicious. So get baking, and enjoy every joyful moment with these marvelous brownies!
Print
Strawberry Chocolate Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these rich and fudgy strawberry chocolate brownies, combining luscious dark chocolate with juicy fresh strawberries for a decadent treat. Perfectly baked to achieve a crackly crust and moist interior, this recipe delivers a harmonious balance of deep cocoa flavor and fruity sweetness in every bite.
Ingredients
Chocolate Mixture
- 200 g dark chocolate (roughly chopped or dark chocolate chips)
- 100 g unsalted butter (cubed)
Batter
- 4 large eggs
- 200 g soft light brown sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 100 g plain flour
- 40 g cocoa/cacao powder
Topping
- 200 g strawberries (hulled & halved)
Instructions
- Melt chocolate and butter: Place the cubed butter and chopped dark chocolate in a small pan and melt gently over low heat, stirring constantly. Alternatively, set a heatproof bowl with the butter and chocolate over a pan of simmering water (bain-marie), ensuring the bowl doesn’t touch the water. Stir occasionally until smooth, then remove from heat and cool slightly.
- Preheat oven: Set the oven to 160°C (320°F) or Gas Mark 3 to prepare for baking the brownies evenly.
- Mix eggs and sugar: Using a hand whisk, balloon whisk, or electric mixer, whisk the eggs together with the light brown sugar and vanilla extract until the mixture is slightly foamy and pale in color, which helps create a light texture.
- Add dry ingredients: Sieve the plain flour and cocoa powder directly into the egg mixture. Gently fold or mix the ingredients to incorporate them without deflating the mixture.
- Combine with chocolate mixture: Pour the cooled chocolate and butter mixture into the batter, stirring gently until fully combined into a smooth batter.
- Prepare baking tray: Lightly butter an 8-inch (24 cm) square baking tray and line it with baking paper, leaving two sides overlapping for easy removal later. Pour the batter evenly into the tray.
- Add strawberries: Arrange the strawberry halves on top of the brownie batter, cut side down. Press them in slightly so they adhere but aren’t fully submerged.
- Bake the brownies: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes. The brownies are ready when a crackly crust forms on top, the batter no longer wobbles when the tray is moved, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with moist crumbs but no raw batter.
- Cool and chill: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the tray. For easier slicing, refrigerate for a couple of hours before cutting. Bring them back to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
- Enjoy: Serve these indulgent strawberry chocolate brownies responsibly and savor the delicious combination of fruity and chocolatey richness.
Notes
- Using a bain-marie helps prevent chocolate from burning and keeps the butter and chocolate mixture smooth.
- Gentle folding of dry ingredients preserves the light texture of the batter.
- Chilling the brownies after baking enhances sliceability and intensifies flavors.
- Adjust strawberries quantity to preference; removing or substituting with other fruits is possible.
- Ensure brownies are fully cooled before slicing to maintain shape.
