These Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies combine rich, fudgy brownies with a luscious strawberry buttercream frosting, all topped with decadent chocolate-dipped strawberries. They’re an indulgent treat perfect for special occasions like Valentine’s Day or whenever you’re craving a delightful dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Decadent Layers: Enjoy the harmonious blend of fudgy brownies, creamy strawberry frosting, and chocolate-dipped strawberries. Each bite delivers a perfect mix of flavors and textures, making it an unforgettable treat.
Versatile Base: Choose between making homemade brownies from scratch or using your favorite boxed mix for convenience. Either way, the result is equally delicious.
Year-Round Delight: Thanks to freeze-dried strawberries, these brownies capture the essence of strawberry season any time of the year. You’ll be able to enjoy the fresh, fruity flavor of strawberries no matter the season.

Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies

Ingredients

For the Brownies:

1 box brownie mix (or homemade brownie batter as per your preferred recipe)
Ingredients required by your chosen brownie mix (typically water, oil, and eggs)
1 cup milk chocolate chips
1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

For the Strawberry Buttercream Frosting:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
3-4 cups powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar)
1 1/4 cups freeze-dried strawberries, crushed into a fine powder
2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream (add more if needed for desired consistency)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt, to taste
Pink food coloring (optional, for a vibrant hue)

For the Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries:

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

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Brownies:

Using Boxed Mix: Follow the instructions on the brownie mix package, incorporating the milk chocolate chips into the batter. Bake as directed and allow to cool completely.
Homemade Brownies: If making from scratch, prepare your chosen recipe, fold in the milk chocolate chips, and bake in a greased 8×8-inch pan. Once baked, let them cool to room temperature.

Prepare the Strawberry Buttercream Frosting:

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Add the crushed freeze-dried strawberries, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until combined.
Add heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency. If desired, incorporate pink food coloring to achieve your preferred shade.

Assemble the Brownies:

Once the brownies have cooled, spread an even layer of the strawberry buttercream frosting over the top.
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up the frosting.

Prepare the Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries:

Melt the chopped dark chocolate using a double boiler or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
Holding each strawberry by the stem, dip it into the melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off.
Place the dipped strawberries on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for about 15 minutes, or until the chocolate sets.

Serve:

Once the chocolate on the strawberries has set, arrange them on top of the frosted brownies.
Slice and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12 brownies
Prep Time: 45 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes (if baking brownies from scratch)
Cooling Time: 1 hour (includes cooling brownies and setting frosting)
Total Time: Approximately 2 hours

Variations

Fruit Options: While strawberries are traditional, you can use raspberries or cherries for a different flavor profile. These fruits will bring their unique taste and colors to the brownies.
Nutty Addition: Incorporate chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, into the brownie batter for added crunch and texture.
Ganache Drizzle: Instead of dipping strawberries, drizzle the brownies with chocolate ganache for a smoother finish, adding an extra layer of richness.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Keep the brownies refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
Freezing: The brownies can be frozen without the strawberry frosting and chocolate-dipped strawberries for up to 2 months. Thaw before assembling and serving for the best texture and flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?

Fresh strawberries are recommended for dipping, as frozen ones contain excess moisture, which can affect the chocolate coating. Using fresh strawberries ensures the chocolate sets properly.

2. How do I prevent the chocolate from seizing when dipping the strawberries?

Make sure the strawberries are completely dry before dipping them. Any moisture on the strawberries can cause the chocolate to seize and ruin the smooth texture.

3. Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate for dipping?

Yes, milk chocolate can be used for a sweeter taste, but dark chocolate provides a richer contrast to the sweet strawberry buttercream frosting.

4. How far in advance can I prepare these brownies?

You can assemble and refrigerate the brownies up to 2 days in advance. Just add the chocolate-dipped strawberries right before serving to ensure they stay fresh and the chocolate remains crisp.

5. Can I make the strawberry buttercream ahead of time?

Yes, the buttercream can be prepared in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Allow it to come to room temperature before using.

6. Can I use a different type of frosting for these brownies?

Absolutely! If you prefer a different frosting, such as cream cheese frosting or a simple chocolate buttercream, feel free to substitute it. However, the strawberry frosting complements the chocolate-dipped strawberries wonderfully.

7. Do I have to refrigerate the brownies?

Yes, refrigerating the brownies is important for setting the strawberry frosting and keeping the chocolate-dipped strawberries fresh. It also helps the frosting firm up, making them easier to slice.

8. Can I make these brownies without the chocolate-dipped strawberries?

While the chocolate-dipped strawberries add a luxurious touch, you can skip this step and still enjoy the fudgy brownies with the strawberry frosting. Alternatively, you can drizzle chocolate ganache over the frosting for an easier alternative.

9. How can I ensure the brownies are cooked properly?

For perfect brownies, check them with a toothpick. When it comes out with a few moist crumbs (but not wet batter), the brownies are done. Be careful not to overbake them to maintain that fudgy texture.

10. Can I use a gluten-free brownie mix for this recipe?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free brownie mix in place of a regular one. Just make sure to follow the instructions for the gluten-free mix, and your brownies will be just as delicious.

Conclusion

Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies are a show-stopping dessert that will impress everyone at your next special occasion. With the perfect blend of fudgy brownies, creamy strawberry frosting, and decadent chocolate-dipped strawberries, this dessert has something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you make them for a holiday, a party, or just because you’re craving a sweet treat, these brownies will always be a hit.