Description
These decadent strawberry brownies combine rich semisweet chocolate with the bright flavor of freeze-dried and fresh strawberries. A perfect treat for chocolate lovers looking to add a fruity twist to classic brownies. The brownies are fudgy in the center with a slightly crisp edge and a hint of fresh strawberry on top for an irresistible dessert.
Ingredients
Brownie Batter
- 16 tbsp butter (2 sticks)
- 8 oz semisweet chocolate, chopped
- 3/4 cup cocoa powder
- 2 ¼ cups sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp salt
- 4 large eggs
- 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup freeze dried strawberries
Topping
- 2 oz semisweet chocolate, chopped
- 3 fresh strawberries, sliced
- Optional: Additional melted chocolate for drizzling
Instructions
- Prepare the pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan thoroughly and line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the brownies after baking.
- Grind the freeze-dried strawberries: Place the freeze-dried strawberries into a small food processor, blender, or spice grinder. Pulse until they become finely ground, with a powder-like texture though some pieces may be slightly larger. Set aside.
- Melt butter and chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the 8 oz chopped semisweet chocolate and butter. Microwave in 30-second increments, stirring after each, until the mixture is completely melted and smooth.
- Combine dry ingredients and eggs: To the melted chocolate mixture, add the sugar, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until evenly combined. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to fully incorporate them into the mixture.
- Add flour and strawberry powder: Fold in the flour and the finely ground freeze-dried strawberries just until no streaks remain. Be careful not to overmix to keep the brownies tender.
- Assemble the brownies: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Sprinkle the remaining 2 oz of chopped chocolate on top, then scatter the sliced fresh strawberries evenly over the surface.
- Bake the brownies: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. The edges should become firm and crisp and start pulling away from the sides of the pan, while the center should remain slightly soft to touch.
- Cool the brownies: Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes to set. Then carefully remove them from the pan using the parchment paper and transfer to a wire rack or cookie sheet to cool completely.
- Optional chocolate drizzle: If desired, melt additional chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled brownies for extra decadence before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Grinding freeze-dried strawberries intensifies their flavor and evenly distributes strawberry flavor throughout the batter.
- Using parchment paper in the pan ensures easy removal and cleaner edges.
- Baking times may vary slightly based on oven; check doneness by texture.
- Do not overbake; the center should remain slightly soft for fudgy brownies.
- Fresh strawberries on top add a fresh burst of flavor and color.
- Optional melted chocolate drizzle elevates the presentation and richness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American