Decadent Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Soft Brownies Recipe Easy and Perfect for Dessert

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Let me tell you, the rich aroma of melting chocolate mingling with fresh strawberries baking into soft, fudgy brownies is enough to make anyone’s mouth water instantly. The first time I whipped up these decadent chocolate-covered strawberry soft brownies, I was honestly floored β€” the kind of moment where you pause, take a deep breath, and just smile because you know you’re onto something truly special. When I was knee-high to a grasshopper, my grandma used to make the most luscious chocolate treats, but this recipe feels like a modern twist on that nostalgic comfort.

It all began on a rainy weekend, trying to recreate a dessert I’d spotted in a fancy bakery window, and after a few tweaks (and many taste tests in the name of research, of course), these brownies became a family staple. My crew couldn’t stop sneaking them off the cooling rack (and I can’t really blame them). Honestly, these brownies are dangerously easy and bring pure, nostalgic comfort with every bite β€” perfect for potlucks, last-minute dessert cravings, or just to brighten up your Pinterest cookie board.

You know what? If I’d discovered this recipe years ago, I’d have saved myself a ton of dessert dilemmas. It’s become my go-to for gifting and family gatherings β€” the kind of treat that feels like a warm hug. Trust me, you’re going to want to bookmark this one.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This decadent chocolate-covered strawberry soft brownies recipe isn’t just another brownie variationβ€”it’s a tried and true favorite that brings a special something to the dessert table. Here’s why I keep coming back to it:

  • Quick & Easy: Comes together in under 45 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute sweet fixes.
  • Simple Ingredients: No fancy ingredients needed; you probably have most of these in your pantry already.
  • Perfect for Special Occasions: Ideal for Valentine’s Day, birthday treats, or just because you deserve a little indulgence.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: Kids, adults, picky eatersβ€”they all give rave reviews for the soft, chocolate-strawberry combo.
  • Unbelievably Delicious: The perfect balance of fudgy texture and juicy strawberry bursts makes it next-level comfort food.

What sets this recipe apart? It’s the way fresh strawberries are gently folded into the batter, then dipped in a glossy chocolate coating for that extra wow factor. Plus, the brownies stay soft and fudgy for days (if they last that long!). This isn’t just good dessert; it’s the kind that makes you close your eyes after the first bite and savor every moment. It’s comfort food, but with a fresh, fruity twist that feels both classic and exciting. Perfect for impressing guests without any stress, and honestly, it’s fun to make too.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and satisfying texture without any fuss. Most are pantry staples, with the fresh strawberries adding a seasonal pop of freshness.

  • For the Brownie Batter:
    • Unsalted butter, 1 cup (227g), melted (adds richness and moisture)
    • Granulated sugar, 1 Β½ cups (300g)
    • Large eggs, 3, room temperature (helps with structure and softness)
    • Pure vanilla extract, 2 teaspoons (for that warm, fragrant note)
    • All-purpose flour, 1 cup (125g), sifted
    • Unsweetened cocoa powder, ΒΎ cup (75g), sifted (I prefer Valrhona for deep chocolate flavor)
    • Salt, Β½ teaspoon (balances sweetness)
    • Baking powder, Β½ teaspoon (helps keep brownies soft and tender)
  • For the Strawberry Filling:
    • Fresh strawberries, 1 cup (about 150g), hulled and chopped into small pieces (choose ripe but firm berries)
  • For the Chocolate Coating:
    • Semi-sweet chocolate chips, 1 Β½ cups (270g) (I recommend Ghirardelli for a smooth melt)
    • Coconut oil, 1 tablespoon (optional, helps chocolate set with a nice sheen)

If you want a gluten-free option, swap the all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free baking mix. For dairy-free versions, use vegan butter and dairy-free chocolate chips. In summer, fresh strawberries bring the best flavor, but frozen (thawed and drained) can work in a pinch.

Equipment Needed

  • 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) baking pan β€” glass or metal both work fine; I prefer glass for even baking.
  • Mixing bowls β€” a medium and a large one will do.
  • Whisk and rubber spatula β€” for smooth batter mixing and folding in strawberries gently.
  • Measuring cups and spoons β€” accuracy helps with consistent texture.
  • Cooling rack β€” to let the brownies cool before dipping.
  • Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl β€” for melting chocolate safely.
  • Fork or dipping tool β€” to coat brownies in chocolate evenly.

If you don’t have a double boiler, just microwave the chocolate in short bursts (20 seconds), stirring often to prevent burning. For budget-friendly options, a sturdy metal bowl over a pot of simmering water works just as well. Keeping your tools clean and dry is key, especially when working with chocolate.

Preparation Method

chocolate-covered strawberry soft brownies preparation steps

  1. Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C). Grease your 8×8 inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later. This step saves you from a sticky situation.
  2. Mix the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until combined but not grainy, about 2 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition, then stir in vanilla extract. Your batter should look glossy and smooth.
  3. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Sifting ensures no lumps and a tender crumb.
  4. Fold dry into wet: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently with a spatula. Don’t overmixβ€”stop as soon as you see no streaks. Overmixing can make brownies tough, and we want soft and fudgy here.
  5. Incorporate strawberries: Carefully fold in the chopped strawberries, distributing them evenly but gently so they don’t break down too much. This part is key for those juicy pockets of fruity goodness.
  6. Bake: Pour the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top. Bake for 28-32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs (not wet batter). Ovens vary, so start checking at 28 minutes.
  7. Cool: Let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rackβ€”this can take about 1 hour. Cooling fully is crucial before dipping in chocolate; warm brownies will melt the coating.
  8. Prepare chocolate coating: Melt the chocolate chips with coconut oil in a double boiler or microwave until smooth, stirring frequently. Let it cool slightly but stay pourable.
  9. Cut and dip: Using the parchment paper overhang, lift brownies out of the pan. Cut into squares (about 2-inch or 5cm pieces). Dip each brownie halfway into the melted chocolate, letting the excess drip off. Place on parchment-lined trays.
  10. Set chocolate: Refrigerate dipped brownies for 20-30 minutes until chocolate is firm. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Pro tip: If your strawberries release too much juice, gently pat them dry before folding in to prevent soggy batter. And if the chocolate seems too thick to dip, warm it gently againβ€”just don’t overheat or it’ll seize.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Getting the perfect soft brownie takes some tricks, and I’ve learned a few the hard way. First, don’t skip sifting the cocoa and flourβ€”it keeps things light and tender. When mixing, fold gently; you want to keep as much air as possible for softness.

Overbaking is the enemy here. I’ve ruined batches by leaving them in too long, ending up with dry edges. Set your timer, and start checking a few minutes early. Remember, brownies continue cooking a bit as they cool.

Handling strawberries can be trickyβ€”they add moisture, so picking firm, ripe berries helps avoid a soggy mess. Also, fold them in carefully to keep some texture and prevent turning the batter pink.

Melting chocolate? Patience is key. Stir often and keep the heat low. If chocolate seizes (turns grainy), add a tiny bit of coconut oil or butter to smooth it out.

Multitasking tip: While the brownies bake and cool, prep your chocolate coating and strawberries. This way, dipping is a breeze when the brownies are ready.

Variations & Adaptations

  • Nutty Delight: Add Β½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for a crunchy contrast to the soft brownie and juicy strawberries.
  • Vegan Version: Replace eggs with flax eggs (3 tbsp ground flaxseed + 9 tbsp water), use dairy-free butter, and vegan chocolate chips. Strawberries stay the same!
  • Berry Mix-Up: Swap strawberries for a mix of fresh raspberries and blueberries for a colorful twist that’s just as luscious.
  • Spiced Brownies: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon and a pinch of cayenne for a subtle warmth that complements chocolate and strawberry beautifully.
  • Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. I’ve had great success with Bob’s Red Mill gluten-free baking flour for a tender bite.

I personally love adding just a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top of the chocolate coating before it sets β€” it gives a lovely balance to the sweetness and a bit of texture.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve these decadent chocolate-covered strawberry soft brownies slightly chilled or at room temperature. The chocolate coating has a nice snap when cold, while at room temp, it melts slightly, making every bite irresistible.

They pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. For drinks, think fresh mint tea, a cold glass of milk, or even a rich coffee to complement the chocolate and berry flavors.

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. When reheating, bring to room temperature or warm gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds β€” the chocolate will soften delightfully.

Flavors actually deepen after a day, so if you can resist, let them rest overnight. The strawberries mellow, and the brownie becomes even more moist.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Each serving of these decadent chocolate-covered strawberry soft brownies (based on 16 pieces) contains approximately:

Calories Fat Carbohydrates Protein Fiber
210 12g 26g 3g 2g

Strawberries bring vitamin C and antioxidants, while cocoa powder adds flavonoids that benefit heart health. Using unsalted butter and moderate sugar keeps the recipe balanced, and you can always reduce sugar slightly to suit your preference.

For those with dietary restrictions, these brownies can be made gluten-free or vegan with simple substitutions, making them a versatile dessert option for many.

Conclusion

In short, these decadent chocolate-covered strawberry soft brownies are a total winner in my book. They combine soft, fudgy texture with juicy bursts of fresh strawberry and a smooth chocolate coating that feels downright luxurious. You can tweak the recipe easily to suit your taste or dietary needs, but honestly, the original version is hard to beat.

I love how they bring people togetherβ€”whether it’s a spontaneous treat or the star of a family gathering. So go ahead, make this recipe your own, share it with friends, and don’t be shy about experimenting. I’d love to hear how your batch turns out!

Got a minute? Drop a comment below, share this recipe, or tell me your favorite brownie twist. Let’s make dessert magic happen!

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Yes, but be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid extra moisture in the batter, which can lead to soggy brownies.

How do I store these brownies to keep them soft?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Refrigeration is fine but may firm the brownies slightly.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Use dairy-free butter and chocolate chips. The texture will remain soft and delicious.

What’s the best way to melt chocolate without burning it?

Use a double boiler or microwave in short bursts (20 seconds), stirring frequently. Keep the heat gentle and avoid direct contact with boiling water.

Can I prepare the brownies ahead and dip them later?

Yes! Bake and cool the brownies completely, store them in the fridge, then dip in chocolate just before serving for the freshest coating.

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chocolate-covered strawberry soft brownies recipe

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Decadent Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Soft Brownies

Rich, fudgy brownies with fresh strawberries folded in and dipped in a glossy chocolate coating, perfect for dessert or special occasions.

  • Author: paula
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
  • Yield: 16 servings 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (2 sticks, 227g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 Β½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour, sifted
  • ΒΎ cup (75g) unsweetened cocoa powder, sifted
  • Β½ teaspoon salt
  • Β½ teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 cup (about 150g) fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
  • 1 Β½ cups (270g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C). Grease an 8×8 inch baking pan and line with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk melted butter and sugar until combined but not grainy, about 2 minutes. Add eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition, then stir in vanilla extract until glossy and smooth.
  3. In a separate medium bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder.
  4. Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet mixture gently with a spatula until no streaks remain. Avoid overmixing.
  5. Carefully fold in chopped strawberries, distributing evenly but gently to avoid breaking them down.
  6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 28-32 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
  7. Cool brownies completely in the pan on a wire rack, about 1 hour.
  8. Melt chocolate chips with coconut oil in a double boiler or microwave until smooth, stirring frequently. Let cool slightly but remain pourable.
  9. Lift brownies out using parchment overhang. Cut into 2-inch squares.
  10. Dip each brownie halfway into melted chocolate, letting excess drip off. Place on parchment-lined trays.
  11. Refrigerate dipped brownies for 20-30 minutes until chocolate is firm.
  12. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Notes

If strawberries release too much juice, pat dry before folding in to prevent soggy batter. Warm chocolate gently if too thick for dipping. Avoid overbaking to keep brownies soft. Sifting dry ingredients ensures tender crumb. For gluten-free, substitute flour with almond or gluten-free baking mix. For dairy-free, use vegan butter and chocolate chips.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 brownie (about 2-i
  • Calories: 210
  • Fat: 12
  • Carbohydrates: 26
  • Fiber: 2
  • Protein: 3

Keywords: brownies, chocolate-covered strawberries, soft brownies, fudgy brownies, dessert, easy brownies, strawberry dessert

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