These chocolate covered strawberry brownies (Mexican version) are a love letter to tradition and indulgence. Inspired by the flavors of chocolate-dipped strawberries and deepened with hints of Mexican chocolate and cinnamon, this dessert blends rich, fudgy brownies with fresh strawberries and a glossy ganache. It’s the kind of recipe that turns an ordinary night into a sweet celebration. Whether you’re baking for Valentine’s Day, a birthday, or a Sunday with family, these brownies will surprise and delight. Let’s dive into the delicious fusion that makes this dessert truly unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Sweet & Simple with a Cultural Kick
One of the best things about this chocolate covered strawberry brownies recipe is that it starts with a basic boxed brownie mix—but we don’t stop there. With a few thoughtful touches inspired by Mexican desserts, this simple recipe transforms into something layered, bold, and beautiful.
We’re not just topping brownies with strawberries and ganache—we’re infusing the chocolate with cinnamon and offering the option of a little chili heat for a hint of surprise. The combination is deeply chocolatey with pops of brightness from the fruit and subtle spice that lingers. It’s rich but never overwhelming.
Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this to life.
What Makes These Brownies Uniquely Mexican?
Ingredients:
- 1 box brownie mix (plus eggs, oil, and water as listed on the box)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for Mexican flavor)
- Pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder (optional for heat)
- 1 pound fresh strawberries, rinsed, stems removed, halved
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped Mexican chocolate (like Ibarra or Abuelita)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- Non-stick spray or parchment paper for pan
How to Make
Baking the Fudgy Brownie Base
There’s something deeply satisfying about the smell of brownies baking. But for these chocolate covered strawberry brownies, the base is just the beginning. We’re layering in freshness and indulgence with strawberries and a silky ganache made with Mexican chocolate.
Take your time with each step and let the flavors build. The result is a dessert that tastes like a chocolate-dipped strawberry, but with a bold, comforting twist.
Here’s how to make it:
Step 1:
Preheat your oven and prepare the brownie mix as directed on the box. Add cinnamon (and chili, if using) to the batter and stir until just combined.
Step 2:
Line an 8×8 baking pan with parchment paper (or spray with non-stick spray) for easier cleanup and slicing.
Step 3:
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake according to box instructions—usually around 40 to 50 minutes. Be careful not to overbake; we want them fudgy, not cakey.
Step 4:
Let the brownies cool completely in the pan. This step is important—if the brownies are too warm, the strawberries will weep, and the ganache won’t set properly.
Step 5:
Rinse and dry the strawberries. Remove stems and slice each berry in half lengthwise.
Step 6:
Arrange the strawberry halves cut-side down across the cooled brownie surface. Pack them tightly for full coverage.
Layering Fresh Strawberries & Pouring the Ganache
Step 7:
Chop your chocolate bar or use chocolate chips. Place them into a heatproof bowl.
Step 8:
Heat heavy cream in the microwave or stovetop until steaming (not boiling). Pour it over the chocolate and cover the bowl with a plate or lid. Let it sit undisturbed for 3 to 4 minutes.
Step 9:
Remove the lid and gently whisk the mixture until smooth and glossy. That’s your ganache.
Step 10:
Pour the ganache over the strawberries, using a spatula to spread it evenly. Make sure all the berries are covered—this will help seal in freshness.
Step 11:
Refrigerate the pan for 15 to 30 minutes, or until the ganache is fully set. Then slice and serve.
Serving Ideas, Variations & Storage Tips
How to Serve These Mexican Strawberry Brownies
These chocolate covered strawberry brownies are bold, beautiful, and best served chilled for the cleanest slices. The cool ganache sets firm, creating a striking contrast with the juicy strawberries and the rich, fudgy brownie layer. For a more elegant finish, you can top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a dusting of cinnamon just before serving.
If you’re planning a Valentine’s Day treat or dessert table, cut the brownies into heart shapes using a metal cookie cutter. They also pair perfectly with café de olla or Mexican hot chocolate, especially with the added cinnamon in the ganache.
Want to serve them warm? You can microwave a single slice for 10–15 seconds and top it with vanilla ice cream—instant romance.
Variations, Substitutions & How to Store Like a Pro
These brownies are versatile and easy to customize:
- Make it spicier: Add a tiny pinch of cayenne or chipotle powder to the ganache for a warm back note.
- Use different fruit: Raspberries or blackberries work beautifully if strawberries aren’t in season.
- Skip the box: Make brownies from scratch using your favorite recipe if you prefer fully homemade.
- Dairy-free: Swap heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk to make the ganache non-dairy.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Beyond that, the strawberries may release too much moisture.
- Freezer: Not ideal. The fresh strawberries lose texture and leak juice when thawed.
To slice cleanly, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts. This helps the ganache stay smooth and pretty.
FAQ: Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies
Can I use fresh or frozen strawberries for these brownies?
Fresh strawberries are best. They hold their shape, taste better, and won’t release excess moisture into the ganache. Frozen strawberries tend to get mushy and can make the topping watery after thawing.
What kind of Mexican chocolate works best?
Brands like Abuelita or Ibarra work wonderfully. They melt smoothly and add notes of cinnamon, spice, and raw cacao. If using bars, chop them finely before melting into the ganache. You can also mix half Mexican chocolate with semi-sweet chips for balance.
How long can these brownies be stored?
Store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. After that, the strawberries may soften too much. For best texture and taste, enjoy within 48 hours.
Can I add spice (like chili) to the ganache?
Yes! A pinch of cayenne or ancho chili powder adds beautiful warmth. Start small—1/8 teaspoon goes a long way. This subtle heat enhances the chocolate and makes each bite unforgettable.
Conclusion
This chocolate covered strawberry brownies (Mexican version) recipe isn’t just a dessert—it’s an experience. It brings together the nostalgic comfort of boxed brownies, the elegance of chocolate-dipped strawberries, and the bold, warm flavors of Mexican chocolate. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving something rich and memorable, this treat brings culture, love, and indulgence to the table—spoonful by spoonful, bite by bite.
Print
Chocolate Covered Strawberry Brownies – Rich, Fudgy & Flavorful
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 9
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These unique chocolate-covered strawberry brownies taste just like a chocolate-dipped strawberry and are topped with a decadent chocolate ganache. The Mexican version adds warm cinnamon and an optional chili kick for a rich, cultural twist.
Ingredients
1 box brownie mix (plus ingredients listed on box)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Pinch of cayenne or chili powder (optional)
1 pound fresh strawberries, halved
2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped Mexican chocolate
1 cup heavy whipping cream
Non-stick spray or parchment paper
Instructions
1. Preheat oven and prepare brownie batter as directed. Mix in cinnamon and optional chili.
2. Line or grease an 8×8 pan and pour in batter. Bake according to package.
3. Cool brownies completely in the pan.
4. Rinse, stem, and halve strawberries. Arrange on cooled brownies.
5. Heat cream until steaming and pour over chocolate in a bowl. Cover and let sit 3 minutes.
6. Whisk until smooth to make ganache.
7. Pour ganache over strawberries. Spread evenly to cover.
8. Chill brownies 15–30 minutes until ganache sets.
9. Slice and serve chilled or slightly warmed.
Notes
Line your pan with parchment for easy lifting and slicing.
Do not overbake the brownies—fudgy is best!
Add a pinch of chipotle for extra smoky heat.