Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
- In a heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of simmering water (double boiler), or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, melt the butter and chocolate together, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and brown sugar. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Pour the slightly cooled chocolate mixture into the egg mixture and whisk until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
- Gently fold in the diced strawberries until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached. The center should have a slight jiggle.
- Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before frosting.
- While the brownies are cooling, prepare the ganache. Place the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl.
- Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for 1 minute. Then, whisk until smooth and glossy.
- Pour the ganache over the cooled brownies and spread evenly. If desired, arrange fresh strawberry halves or whole strawberries on top of the ganache.
- Place the brownies in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the ganache to set.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Notes
Don't overmix the batter to avoid tough brownies. Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor. Slightly underbaking the brownies ensures a fudgy texture. Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For variations, add chocolate chips, nuts, espresso powder, different extracts, or a strawberry jam swirl.
