There’s something irresistible about a warm brownie, especially when it’s infused with the luscious essence of strawberries. Recently, I found myself craving a dessert that felt decadent yet refreshing, and that’s when I decided to whip up these Strawberry Brownies with White Chocolate Ganache. The moment the brownies start baking, your kitchen will fill with an intoxicating aroma that hints at the sweet surprise awaiting you.
This recipe is a delightful twist on a classic, with strawberries providing a burst of flavor and a vibrant color that elevates it to something truly special. Whether you’re satisfying your own sweet tooth or impressing guests at a gathering, these brownies are an easy yet elegant solution. They take just over an hour from start to finish, making them perfect for a cozy weekend treat or an unexpected weeknight indulgence. Let me guide you through these simple steps to create a dessert that’s not just a treat but a memory in the making!
Why You'll Love This Strawberry Brownies with White Chocolate Ganache
- These Strawberry Brownies with White Chocolate Ganache are incredibly easy to make, allowing you to whip up a delightful dessert without the fuss.
- The explosion of strawberry flavor combined with the richness of white chocolate creates a taste sensation that no one can resist.
- Their eye-catching pink color and beautiful garnish make them a stunning centerpiece for any gathering, guaranteed to impress your guests.
- Plus, you’ll love that they come together in under an hour, making them an ideal choice for a spontaneous sweet craving or as a special treat.
Strawberry Brownies with White Chocolate Ganache Ingredients
For the Brownies
• 1 lb fresh or frozen strawberries – these provide a vibrant flavor and color to your brownies.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar – this helps to sweeten the berry mixture for a jam-like consistency.
• 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract – adds a lovely depth of flavor to the brownies.
• 1 lemon zest and juice – the citrus brightens up the sweetness and balances the flavors.
• a pinch kosher salt – enhances the overall sweetness of the dessert.
• 10 Tbsp unsalted butter – brings richness to the brownies, ensuring they’re moist and decadent.
• 6 oz white chocolate melts – contributes to the creamy texture and irresistibly sweet flavor.
• 1 large egg – binds the ingredients together and lends structure to the brownies.
• 1 large egg yolk – adds moisture and richness for a fudgier brownie.
• 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar – the base sweetness that complements the strawberry flavor.
• 1/4 cup freeze-dried strawberries – optional, for an intensified strawberry flavor and a fun twist.
• 1 cup strawberry puree – infuses the brownies with a fresh, fruity taste.
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract – to enhance the sweet notes in these delightful brownies.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour – provides structure and stability to the brownies.
• 1 tsp kosher salt – balances sweetness and brings out the flavors.
• 1/2 tsp baking powder – helps the brownies rise and achieve that perfect chewy texture.
• drops pink gel food coloring – for a playful, vibrant hue that’s perfect for presentation.
For the White Chocolate Ganache
• 8 oz white chocolate melts – the star of the show, creating a silky smooth finish for the brownies.
• 2/3 cup heavy cream – ensures a rich, creamy ganache that complements the strawberries perfectly.
For Garnishing
• 4 to 5 fresh strawberries – thinly sliced, optional but highly recommended for a beautiful finish.
• freeze-dried strawberries – crushed into powder for serving, adding a crunchy element and extra strawberry flavor.
These Strawberry Brownies with White Chocolate Ganache are guaranteed to please your palate and create memorable moments with every bite!
How to Make Strawberry Brownies with White Chocolate Ganache
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Cook the Strawberries: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine strawberries, sugar, vanilla, and lemon juice. Stir occasionally until strawberries soften and sugar dissolves, about 3-4 minutes. Simmer until thickened, about 12-15 minutes, then stir in lemon zest and a pinch of salt. Remove from heat.
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Puree the Mixture: Transfer the cooked strawberry mixture to a blender and puree until smooth. Allow it to cool completely.
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Preheat the Oven: Arrange a rack in the lower third of the oven and preheat to 325°F. Line a 9″ square baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
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Melt the Chocolate and Butter: In a medium heatproof bowl, microwave butter and chocolate melts in 30-second increments, stirring in between until melted and smooth, about 90 seconds total.
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Mix the Brownie Base: In the bowl of a stand mixer with a whisk attachment, beat together the egg, egg yolk, sugar, and optional freeze-dried strawberries on medium-high speed until pale and fluffy. Add vanilla and 1 cup of the strawberry puree; reserve the remaining puree. Gradually mix in the melted chocolate until combined.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: Switch to the paddle attachment. Sift in flour, salt, and baking powder, and mix on medium-low speed until just combined. Add food coloring a few drops at a time, being careful not to overmix. Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
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Bake the Brownies: Bake until edges are lightly browned and a tester comes out clean, about 35-40 minutes. Let them cool in the pan.
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Prepare the Ganache: In a heatproof bowl, microwave white chocolate melts and heavy cream in 30-second increments, stirring until melted and smooth, about 2 minutes total.
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Flavor the Ganache: Stir in 1/4 cup of the reserved strawberry puree into the ganache. Let it cool slightly.
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Assemble the Brownies: Spread the ganache over the cooled brownies. Top with thinly sliced strawberries and optional crushed freeze-dried strawberries for a delightful finish.
Optional: For an extra touch, sprinkle powdered freeze-dried strawberries on top for added flavor and crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Strawberry Brownies with White Chocolate Ganache are ideal for busy cooks who want to simplify dessert prep! You can prepare the strawberry jam mixture up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container to keep it fresh and flavorful. Additionally, the brownie batter can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, pour the chilled batter into the prepared pan and continue with the baking instructions as usual. For the ganache, it’s best to prepare this the day you plan to serve, ensuring it maintains its silky texture. Just reheat slightly if it firms up! Enjoy the convenience of these make-ahead tips for delightful, fuss-free dessert moments!
How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Brownies with White Chocolate Ganache
Fridge: Store leftover brownies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: If you want to keep them longer, freeze brownies wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil for up to 2 months.
Thawing: To enjoy your frozen brownies, thaw them in the fridge overnight before serving. You can also gently reheat them in the microwave for a warm, melty treat.
Reheating: For best results, reheat brownies in the microwave in 10-second increments until warmed through, but avoid overheating to keep them fudgy.
Strawberry Brownies Variations
Feel free to add your own twist to these delightful brownies with a few creative adjustments!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend for a wonderful and tempting option.
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Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free chocolate melts and coconut oil instead of butter for a similar taste without dairy.
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Nutty Addition: Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped nuts, like walnuts or almonds, for a deliciously crunchy texture.
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Minty Fresh: Add 1/2 tsp of peppermint extract to the brownie batter for a refreshing minty flavor that brightens up every bite. Just imagine that initial coolness combined with the sweet strawberry notes!
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Spicy Kick: For a subtle heat, mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the brownie batter. This unexpected twist creates a delightful contrast with the sweetness of strawberries.
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Swirl in Peanut Butter: Create a marbled effect by stirring 1/2 cup of peanut butter into the brownie batter before baking for a rich, nutty contrast.
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Chocolate Ganache Variants: Consider using dark or milk chocolate melts instead of white chocolate for a different flavor profile. The richness is simply divine!
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Fruit Fusion: Experiment by adding other fruits like raspberries or cherries to the batter, giving it an exciting new flavor to enjoy with every bite. Their tangy notes will play beautifully with the strawberries.
What to Serve with Strawberry Brownies with White Chocolate Ganache?
Indulging in these brownies is a sweet experience, but pairing them with the right accompaniments elevates your dessert moment to pure bliss.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully, balancing the tartness of the strawberries.
- Fresh Strawberries: Slicing a few fresh strawberries on the side enhances the fruity flavor while adding a lovely, juicy element.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a light, airy texture that complements the richness of the brownies perfectly.
- Mint Sprigs: Garnishing with fresh mint leaves introduces a refreshing element, cutting through the sweetness and adding visual appeal.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over the brownies creates a double-chocolate experience that any chocolate lover will adore.
- Sweet Tea: A chilled glass of sweet tea brings a calming contrast, making this a perfect pair for a summer gathering.
- Sparkling Water: For a refreshing drink option, sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon can cleanse the palate beautifully between bites.
- Cheesecake Bites: Offering a variety of mini desserts, like cheesecake bites, rounds out the dessert table with creamy decadence.
- Coconut Macaroons: Their chewy texture and tropical flavor can provide an exciting contrast to your brownies, making each bite unique.
- Coffee or Espresso: A rich cup of coffee or a shot of espresso rounds out this indulgence, sharpening the flavors of both the brownies and the strawberries.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To enhance the flavor of your Strawberry Brownies with White Chocolate Ganache, ensure you use ripe, fresh strawberries for the best taste, but frozen strawberries will work in a pinch.
- When melting the butter and chocolate, do it in short bursts in the microwave and stir well between each burst to avoid burning.
- Avoid overmixing the batter once you add the dry ingredients, as this can lead to dense brownies instead of a light and chewy texture.
- Keep an eye on the baking time; every oven is different, so check for doneness a few minutes early by inserting a toothpick to ensure the brownies remain moist and fudgy inside.
Strawberry Brownies with White Chocolate Ganache Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe strawberries for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for strawberries that are bright red, plump, and fragrant. Avoid any with dark spots or signs of mold, as these indicate overripeness. Fresh strawberries will yield the best flavor for your Strawberry Brownies with White Chocolate Ganache.
What’s the best way to store leftover brownies?
Very! Store leftover brownies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you need to keep them fresher longer, consider freezing them. Slice the brownies first for easy serving later, and store them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil.
Can I freeze my brownies, and if so, how?
Yes, indeed! To freeze your Strawberry Brownies with White Chocolate Ganache, wrap them individually to prevent freezer burn. Start by wrapping each brownie in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the fridge overnight.
I find that my brownies sometimes turn out dense. What can cause this?
Great question! Dense brownies can occur if the batter is overmixed after adding the dry ingredients. To avoid this, mix just until combined and be careful not to overbeat. Additionally, make sure you’re measuring your flour correctly — too much flour can lead to dense results. Always fluff up the flour in its container and spoon it into your measuring cup for accurate measurement.
Are these brownies okay for people with nut allergies?
Yes, these Strawberry Brownies with White Chocolate Ganache are nut-free, making them suitable for most who have nut allergies. Just ensure that your chocolate melts do not contain any nuts. If you’re serving these to someone with specific dietary restrictions, do double-check the labels for any potential cross-contamination.
How can I make these brownies gluten-free?
If you’d like to make these brownies gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. I recommend using one that includes xanthan gum for better texture. Just remember to check that all other ingredients, especially baking powder and chocolate melts, are also gluten-free. Following these steps, you’ll have a delightful treat that everyone can enjoy!
Strawberry Brownies with White Chocolate Ganache
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine strawberries, sugar, vanilla, and lemon juice. Stir occasionally until strawberries soften and sugar dissolves, about 3-4 minutes. Simmer until thickened, about 12-15 minutes, then stir in lemon zest and a pinch of salt. Remove from heat.
- Transfer the cooked strawberry mixture to a blender and puree until smooth. Allow it to cool completely.
- Arrange a rack in the lower third of the oven and preheat to 325°F. Line a 9" square baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a medium heatproof bowl, microwave butter and chocolate melts in 30-second increments, stirring in between until melted and smooth, about 90 seconds total.
- In the bowl of a stand mixer with a whisk attachment, beat together the egg, egg yolk, sugar, and optional freeze-dried strawberries on medium-high speed until pale and fluffy. Add vanilla and 1 cup of the strawberry puree; reserve the remaining puree. Gradually mix in the melted chocolate until combined.
- Switch to the paddle attachment. Sift in flour, salt, and baking powder, and mix on medium-low speed until just combined. Add food coloring a few drops at a time, being careful not to overmix. Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake until edges are lightly browned and a tester comes out clean, about 35-40 minutes. Let them cool in the pan.
- In a heatproof bowl, microwave white chocolate melts and heavy cream in 30-second increments, stirring until melted and smooth, about 2 minutes total.
- Stir in 1/4 cup of the reserved strawberry puree into the ganache. Let it cool slightly.
- Spread the ganache over the cooled brownies. Top with thinly sliced strawberries and optional crushed freeze-dried strawberries for a delightful finish.
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