Ingredients

• 200g dark chocolate (70% cocoa), chopped
• 150g unsalted butter, cubed
• 1 cup (200g) caster sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tsp strawberry gum powder
• 1/2 cup (75g) plain flour
• 1/4 cup (25g) cocoa powder
• 1/4 tsp salt

Optional Toppings:

• Powdered sugar for dusting
• Fresh strawberries for garnish

Method

1. Preheat and Prepare:
   Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and line a 20cm (8-inch) square baking tin with baking paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.

2. Melt Chocolate and Butter:
   In a heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of simmering water (double boiler), gently melt the dark chocolate and butter together. Stir until smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

3. Mix Wet Ingredients:
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture becomes pale and slightly thickened.

4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
   Stir the melted chocolate mixture into the sugar and egg mixture until well combined. Sift in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Add the strawberry gum powder and fold gently until just combined.

5. Bake the Brownies:
   Pour the batter into the prepared baking tin and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is set but still slightly gooey in the centre (a toothpick inserted should come out with moist crumbs).

6. Cool and Serve:
   Allow the brownies to cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cut into squares and dust with powdered sugar if desired. Garnish with fresh strawberries for a festive touch.

Enjoy the subtle, sweet and fruity aroma of strawberry gum in these decadent brownies!