Description
These Strawberry Brownies combine the rich indulgence of classic brownies with the bright, fruity flavor of fresh strawberries. Featuring a luscious strawberry puree folded into a white chocolate and butter batter, these brownies are topped with a smooth strawberry ganache for an extra burst of berry goodness. Perfect for a special dessert with a unique twist.
Ingredients
Strawberry Puree
- 16 oz. strawberries (fresh or frozen) (453 grams)
Brownie Batter
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter (170 grams)
- 1 cup chopped white chocolate (170 grams)
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar (250 grams)
- 1/3 cup strawberry puree (prepared)
- 1 large egg
- 2 large egg yolks
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (287 grams)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp strawberry puree (prepared)
Strawberry Ganache
- 1/3 cup strawberry puree (recipe above)
- 1 tbsp heavy cream
- 3/4 cup chopped white chocolate (127 grams)
Instructions
- Make Strawberry Puree: Chop the strawberries and process them in a food processor until blended smoothly into a puree.
- Simmer Puree: Transfer the puree to a small saucepan and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to medium or medium-low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reduces to about 2/3 cup. This takes approximately 20 minutes and results in a thick, darkened puree.
- Ensure Proper Reduction: If you have more than 2/3 cup of puree after simmering, continue cooking until the quantity reduces to the target amount. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare Pan and Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Grease and line an 8×8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper; avoid using glass pans to ensure even baking.
- Melt Butter and Chocolate: In a large heatproof bowl, combine unsalted butter and 1 cup chopped white chocolate. Melt together using the microwave in 15 to 30-second increments, stirring between each, or use a double boiler method until fully melted and smooth.
- Mix Sugar and Puree: Add granulated sugar and 1/3 cup plus 2 tablespoons of the prepared strawberry puree to the melted chocolate and butter mixture. Whisk or use a mixer to thoroughly combine.
- Add Eggs: Incorporate 1 large egg and 2 large egg yolks into the mixture. Beat on medium speed with a mixer or whisk vigorously by hand for about 3 minutes until fully blended.
- Add Optional Food Coloring: If desired, add a few drops of pink food coloring to intensify the batter’s color; remember the pink tone will fade slightly when baked.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Add all-purpose flour and salt into the bowl. Mix on low speed until just combined. Finish mixing with a spatula to avoid overmixing the batter.
- Pour Batter and Smooth: Transfer the batter to the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even layer.
- Bake the Brownies: Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, but no wet batter. If not done, continue baking and check every 5 minutes.
- Cool Brownies: Remove brownies from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan to set properly.
- Make Strawberry Ganache: Combine the remaining 1/3 cup strawberry puree and 1 tablespoon heavy cream in a small microwave-safe cup or bowl. Heat until hot but not boiling.
- Combine Ganache with Chocolate: Pour the hot strawberry and cream mixture over 3/4 cup chopped white chocolate. Whisk gently until the chocolate melts and ganache is smooth. If needed, microwave in 10-second increments with stirring until fully melted.
- Adjust Ganache Consistency: If ganache is too firm, add up to 1/2 tablespoon extra heavy cream and stir to reach a pourable consistency.
- Top Brownies: Pour the ganache evenly over the cooled brownies and spread with a spatula.
- Optional Decoration: Sprinkle freeze dried strawberry powder on top of ganache for added flavor and visual appeal.
- Set Ganache: Let the ganache set on the brownies for about 10 minutes at room temperature before slicing.
- Serve and Store: Slice the brownies and serve. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow refrigerated brownies to come to room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen strawberries; frozen may require longer simmering to reduce puree.
- Do not use a glass baking pan as it can affect baking time and texture.
- Adding pink food coloring is optional but helps maintain vibrant color after baking.
- Ensure brownies are fully cooled before adding ganache to prevent melting.
- Store brownies refrigerated and serve at room temperature for best flavor and texture.
- Freeze dried strawberry powder is optional for garnish and adds extra strawberry flavor.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American