Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies: A Valentine’s Day Delight

Introduction

These Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies are the ultimate decadent dessert! Picture rich, fudgy brownies topped with a luscious strawberry buttercream and crowned with chocolate-dipped strawberries. This dessert is perfect for Valentine’s Day or any occasion when you want to make something truly special. It’s indulgent, gorgeous, and incredibly satisfying.

Whether you’re planning a romantic evening or looking for a fun treat to share, these brownies will wow everyone. Plus, the heart-shaped design adds a delightful festive touch.

For more Valentine’s Day dessert inspiration, check out Valentine’s Day Macarons, Sweetheart Cinnamon Rolls, and Valentine’s Day Donuts.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Key Benefits

• Perfect for Celebrations: These brownies make a stunning centerpiece for Valentine’s Day or any romantic occasion.
• Easy to Customize: Use a boxed brownie mix for convenience or follow the from-scratch instructions for a richer, homemade flavor.
• Fun and Festive: The heart-shaped design and chocolate-dipped strawberries make them irresistible and Instagram-worthy.

Taste & Texture

• Decadent Brownie Base: Rich, fudgy, and full of chocolate flavor.
• Sweet and Creamy Buttercream: The strawberry frosting is light, fluffy, and bursting with fruity flavor.
• Silky Chocolate Strawberries: Juicy strawberries dipped in dark chocolate add elegance and a juicy bite.

Dietary Attributes

• Easily adaptable to dietary needs:
  • Use gluten-free flour to make the brownies gluten-free.
  • Substitute dairy-free butter and cream for a lactose-free version.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Ingredient List

For the Brownies:

• 1 box brownie mix (follow package instructions for batter)
  Or use these ingredients for a homemade version:
• 1/2 cup butter
• 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips or baking chocolate
• 1 cup sugar
• 3 eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla
• 1/2 tsp espresso powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 3/4 tsp baking powder
• 1 cup flour
• 4 Tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 Tbsp canola oil
• 1 cup chocolate chips

For the Strawberry Buttercream:

• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 2-4 cups powdered sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1-2 Tbsp heavy cream
• 1/4 cup strawberries, finely chopped
• Salt to taste

For the Chocolate Covered Strawberries:

• 9-12 large strawberries
• 4 oz quality dark chocolate, finely chopped

Notes on Quality

• Chocolate: Use high-quality chocolate for the richest flavor. Dark chocolate works best for dipping strawberries.
• Strawberries: Opt for large, ripe strawberries for the best presentation and juiciness.
• Butter: Room-temperature butter ensures a smooth buttercream.

Possible Substitutions

• Use plant-based butter and cream for a vegan option.
• Swap strawberries for raspberries or another berry of your choice.
• Replace espresso powder with a pinch of instant coffee for a similar depth of flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brownies

• Preheat oven to 350°F and grease an 8×8 baking pan.
• Melt butter and chocolate in a double boiler or microwave. Allow to cool for 10 minutes.
• Stir in sugar, then add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
• Add vanilla, espresso powder, salt, baking powder, flour, and cocoa powder. Mix until just combined.
• Fold in oil and chocolate chips.
• Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the center is just set.

• Cool completely. Chill in the refrigerator for 60 minutes to make cutting easier. Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out brownies (yields 9-12 hearts).

Strawberry Buttercream

1. Beat softened butter until fluffy. Add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, starting with 4 cups.
2. Mix in vanilla and 2 Tbsp of heavy cream. Blend until smooth.
3. Add chopped strawberries and beat until the frosting turns pink. Adjust consistency with more powdered sugar or cream if needed.
4. Spread frosting generously over each brownie heart.

Chocolate Covered Strawberries

1. Melt chocolate in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
2. Dip strawberries into the chocolate, using a spoon to coat evenly.
3. Place strawberries on wax paper and chill for 15 minutes.
4. Drizzle extra chocolate over chilled strawberries if desired and chill again until set.
5. Top each frosted brownie with a chocolate-covered strawberry.

Expert Tips & Tricks

Best Practices

• Chill Before Cutting: Refrigerating brownies before cutting helps achieve cleaner edges.
• Smooth Frosting: Beat the buttercream well to avoid lumps.

Common Mistakes

• Don’t overbake the brownies; they should be slightly fudgy in the center.
• Avoid adding too many strawberries to the frosting, as excess moisture can thin it out.

Time-Saving Tips

• Make the brownies a day ahead and frost them just before serving.
• Use pre-made chocolate-dipped strawberries to save time.

Serving Suggestions

Pairings

• Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Add a drizzle of strawberry sauce for extra flair.

Presentation Ideas

• Arrange the brownies on a cake stand with scattered rose petals for a romantic touch.
• Use parchment liners for individual servings.

Beverage Pairings

• Pair with a glass of champagne or sparkling rosé.
• For a non-alcoholic option, try strawberry lemonade or a creamy hot cocoa.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover Storage

• Store brownies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Chocolate-dipped strawberries are best consumed within 1-2 days.

Reheating Methods

• Allow brownies to come to room temperature before serving. Avoid reheating the frosting as it may melt.

Frequently Asked Questions

Substitutions & Adjustments

• Can I use frozen strawberries? Yes, but thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture.
• What’s the best way to cut the brownies? Use a sharp cookie cutter or knife and wipe clean between cuts.

Troubleshooting

• Brownies too dry? Reduce baking time slightly.
• Frosting too runny? Add more powdered sugar to thicken.

Variations & Customizations

Dietary Adaptations

• Use gluten-free flour and dairy-free butter for an allergen-friendly version.

Flavor Twists

• Add a teaspoon of almond extract to the frosting for a nutty undertone.
• Sprinkle chopped nuts over the buttercream for added crunch.

Seasonal/Holiday Versions

• Swap strawberries for raspberries in the winter or cherries in the summer.
• Use festive sprinkles for added holiday flair.

Conclusion

These Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies are everything you could want in a dessert—decadent, beautiful, and bursting with flavor. Perfect for sharing with loved ones or treating yourself, they’re sure to become a favorite. Don’t forget to check out Valentine’s Day Macarons, Sweetheart Cinnamon Rolls, and Valentine’s Day Donuts for even more sweet ideas.

Looking for more inspiration? Follow us on Pinterest: Cooking with Callie. Happy baking!

Print