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If you’re craving a dessert that’s both decadently chocolatey and bursting with fresh fruity pops, look no further than this Strawberry Swirl Chocolate Brownies Recipe. These brownies bring together rich cocoa, molten chocolate chunks, and a luscious swirl of strawberry jam, crowned with delightful heart-shaped strawberry slices. It’s a flawless way to elevate a classic treat into something truly special that will wow your friends, family, and even yourself.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white speckled tray on a white marbled surface holding several small white bowls with different baking ingredients. At the bottom right, a white plate holds two thick blocks of cream cheese. Above it, a bowl contains three brown eggs. To the left, a bowl is filled with chopped dark chocolate pieces. On the top left of the tray is a bowl of white flour. Next to it, a small bowl contains three fresh red strawberries with green leaves. To the right of the strawberries, a bowl is filled with brown cocoa powder. Above and to the right of the cocoa powder is a tiny bowl with white salt. Next to the salt bowl, a scalloped white bowl contains a dark red jam with a spoon resting inside. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in building the perfect balance of fudgy texture, deep chocolate flavor, and that irresistible strawberry swirl that steals the show.

3/4 cup butter: Provides richness and helps keep the brownies fudgy and moist.
1 cup + 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder: The backbone of the chocolate flavor—choose good quality for best results.
1 3/4 cup + 2 tbsp granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter perfectly while contributing to that crackly brownie crust.
1/2 tsp kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
3 large eggs: Adds structure but also moisture, keeping the brownies chewy and dense.
1 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract: Elevates the chocolate and strawberry notes with subtle warmth.
3/4 cup all-purpose flour: Keeps the brownies tender without making them cakey.
1 3/4 cups coarsely chopped chocolate (divided use): Melts in pockets to create those luscious bursts of creamy chocolate.
1/4 cup strawberry jam: The key to the signature strawberry swirl that adds sweetness and tang.
4 medium strawberries (sliced): Fresh, heart-shaped decorations that brighten the plate and the flavor.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Strawberry Swirl Chocolate Brownies Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

First, get your oven warmed up to 350ºF and prepare an 8×8-inch square pan by lining it with parchment paper, leaving a nice overhang to help you lift out the brownies easily. If parchment isn’t your thing, grease and lightly flour the pan to prevent sticking. This little setup step will make the end result a breeze to remove and serve.

Step 2: Melt Butter and Mix Cocoa

Gently melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat or in bursts in the microwave—just be sure not to burn it. Once melted, whisk in your cocoa powder until the mixture is silky and lump-free. This intense chocolate base is what makes these brownies so irresistible.

Step 3: Stir in Sugar, Salt, Eggs, and Vanilla

Remove from heat and add the sugar and salt right away, then crack in the eggs and pour in the vanilla extract. Give it a good vigorous whisk to combine everything thoroughly; this step ensures you get that classic crackly top on the brownies that everyone loves.

Step 4: Fold in Flour and Chopped Chocolate

Gently stir the flour into the batter just until everything blends together—don’t overmix or the brownies could become tough. Set aside half a cup of the chopped chocolate for topping, then fold the remaining chocolate chunks into the batter. These chunks will melt in pockets as it bakes, creating little molten chocolate heaven inside.

Step 5: Spread Batter and Add Strawberry Swirl

Because the batter is quite stiff, spread it evenly using the back of a wooden spoon, then smooth the surface with a spatula warmed under hot water. Dollop the strawberry jam on top in spoonfuls and then swirl it with a skewer or butter knife just enough to weave a marble effect without mixing it all in—this keeps bursts of strawberry flavor throughout.

Step 6: Decorate with Chocolate Chunks and Strawberry Slices

Scatter the reserved chopped chocolate evenly over the top. Next, carefully hull your strawberries by slicing a little V-shape out of the top and then cutting lengthwise to create charming heart shapes—these fresh slices add a pop of color and brightness when placed on top of your brownies.

Step 7: Bake to Perfect Gooeyness

Bake for 30 to 40 minutes, watching for the edges to firm up and the surface to appear mostly dry except for the chocolate chunks. The center should still have a gentle give—aim for an internal temperature around 180ºF for that perfect fudgy texture. Once baked, allow them to cool at least 10 minutes before lifting out by the parchment overhang and slicing into squares.

How to Serve Strawberry Swirl Chocolate Brownies Recipe

Garnishes

A dusting of powdered sugar is a lovely touch and lets the rich chocolate and vibrant strawberry swirl shine. You can also add a few more fresh strawberry slices or a small sprig of mint to each square for a pop of freshness and elegance.

Side Dishes

These brownies are fantastic paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream that complements the richness beautifully. For a lighter pairing, serve alongside a simple green salad with tangy vinaigrette to balance the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the brownies on a rustic wooden board surrounded by fresh strawberries and chocolate shards for an eye-catching dessert platter. Alternatively, cut them into mini bite-sized squares and skewer them with a strawberry slice for a fun party treat that’s easy to pop in your mouth.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them moist and fresh, and they’ll still have their fudgy texture and fabulous strawberry swirl.

Freezing

Wrap individual brownie squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you want a treat, thaw at room temperature or warm gently for a freshly baked feel.

Reheating

To enjoy the brownies warmed, pop them in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or heat in a low oven for 5 minutes. The chocolate chunks will become wonderfully melty again, and the strawberry swirl will shine like fresh.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh for the garnish?

While frozen strawberries will soften and release a lot of moisture upon thawing, fresh strawberries are best for that crisp, heart-shaped garnish to maintain both texture and appearance.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute butter with a plant-based alternative and choose dairy-free chocolate. Keep in mind the texture may be slightly different, but the strawberry swirl will still provide that fresh burst of flavor.

Can I use a different fruit jam for the swirl?

Absolutely! Raspberry or cherry jam would also lend a nice tart contrast to the deep chocolate, but strawberry jam is classic for the perfect flavor pairing in this recipe.

What’s the secret to getting a crackly brownie top?

Vigorous whisking of the sugar and eggs creates a shiny, crackly crust. Just don’t overbake, as that can dry the brownies and dull the texture.

How do I know when the brownies are done?

Look for edges that are firm and a mostly dry surface with soft chocolate chunks, and the center should still be slightly soft to the touch. An internal temperature of about 180ºF is ideal for gooey brownies.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Swirl Chocolate Brownies Recipe is a true celebration of chocolate and fresh fruit that you’ll want to bake over and over. It’s a crowd-pleaser with just the right balance of fudgy richness and bright strawberry sweetness, making every bite a joyous experience. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become your go-to dessert for any occasion!

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