Description
Delight in these decadent Strawberry Fudge Brownies, combining rich, fudgy chocolate brownie base with a fresh and vibrant strawberry topping. Perfectly baked to a moist, tender crumb and topped with sweet macerated strawberries for a burst of fruity freshness in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Brownie Batter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
Strawberry Topping
- 1 cup fresh strawberries (diced)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for a zesty touch)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×9-inch baking pan by greasing and flouring it or lining it with parchment paper to ensure the brownies do not stick.
- Make the brownie batter: In a large mixing bowl, mix the melted butter with granulated sugar until combined. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, stirring until smooth and well incorporated to create a creamy mixture.
- Add dry ingredients: Sift in the cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder. Fold the ingredients together gently until you have a thick, uniform batter without overmixing.
- Prepare to bake: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly to ensure uniform baking.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Insert a toothpick in the center to check; it should come out with just a few moist crumbs for perfectly fudgy brownies. Avoid overbaking to maintain moistness.
- Macerate strawberries: While the brownies bake, combine the diced strawberries, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, and optional lemon juice in a bowl. Stir well and let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes to release the natural juices, enhancing flavor and sweetness.
- Cool the brownies: After baking, remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling prevents the strawberry topping from melting into the brownies.
- Top with strawberries: Once the brownies have cooled fully, spread the macerated strawberry mixture evenly over the top, creating a refreshing and colorful garnish.
- Serve: Slice the brownies into 9 servings and enjoy this luscious combination of chocolate and fresh fruit.
Notes
- To enhance the strawberry flavor, use ripe, sweet strawberries.
- For a more intense chocolate taste, consider using Dutch-processed cocoa powder.
- The lemon juice is optional but adds a nice zest that brightens the strawberry topping.
- Store brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep the strawberry topping fresh.
- Allow brownies to cool completely before adding the strawberry topping to prevent it from watery consistency.
