If you have a soft spot for rich, decadent desserts, then this Chocolate Ganache Brownies Recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to. These brownies bring together a perfectly fudgy base with a silky, luscious chocolate ganache topping that melts in your mouth with every bite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving a sweet treat, this recipe is straightforward, uses simple ingredients, and delivers an indulgence that will impress friends and family alike. Get ready to experience chocolatey goodness in its purest, most gloriously indulgent form!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role, combining simplicity with the magic that creates those irresistible textures and flavors. From the melted butter that adds richness to the cocoa powder which gives the signature chocolate depth, each element is essential for making these brownies truly shine.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Provides the creamy fat that makes the brownies incredibly moist and tender.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter perfectly without overpowering the chocolate.
- 2 large eggs, room temperature: Bind everything together and contribute to that delightful fudgy texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and enhances the chocolate’s flavor.
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: The heart of the recipe, delivering deep chocolate notes and rich color.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Balances the batter to give just the right amount of structure.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Elevates the sweetness and true chocolate flavor by balancing tastes.
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the brownies to rise gently, ensuring they’re not too dense.
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: Creates melty pockets of chocolate within the brownies for that extra treat.
- Ganache – 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: Used for the decadent, silky topping that crowns the brownies.
- Ganache – 1/2 cup heavy cream: The key to creating that smooth texture that blends beautifully with the chocolate chips for the ganache.
How to Make Chocolate Ganache Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures it’s at the right temperature once your batter is ready. Next, grease and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper—it makes removing the brownies a breeze and protects against sticking, keeping every piece intact.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture looks smooth and glossy. This step helps dissolve the sugar for a more uniform texture. Then, add in the eggs and vanilla extract, beating everything until the batter is fully combined and slightly aerated to contribute to the brownies’ tenderness.
Step 3: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
Sift your cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder together for an even distribution. Gently stir these into the wet ingredients, being careful not to overmix to avoid tough brownies. The batter should come together smoothly with a beautiful deep brown color.
Step 4: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Bake
Now, fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips, which will melt in wonderful pockets during baking. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 22 to 25 minutes—you’re aiming for set edges and a center that still holds a few moist crumbs when poked with a toothpick for that perfect fudgy feel.
Step 5: Cool and Prepare the Ganache
Once baked, let the brownies cool completely in the pan. Meanwhile, heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan just until it begins to simmer (watch closely, you don’t want it to boil). Pour this hot cream over the chocolate chips placed in a heatproof bowl and let it sit for 2 minutes before stirring until smooth and glossy, forming your luscious ganache.
Step 6: Top and Set the Ganache
Spread the ganache evenly over the cooled brownies, and allow it to set for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial to get a smooth, firm topping that cuts beautifully, so patience here will reward you with a stunning finish every time.
How to Serve Chocolate Ganache Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a light dusting of powdered sugar over the top for an elegant touch, or add a few fresh raspberries to introduce a pop of color and tartness that complements the richness. Toasted nuts like walnuts or pecans can also add a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the smooth ganache and tender brownie.
Side Dishes
Pair these brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic combination that’s hard to beat. A drizzle of caramel sauce or a dollop of freshly whipped cream also makes the experience even more luxurious. For a lighter note, try serving with fresh strawberries or a bright berry compote.
Creative Ways to Present
Cutting the brownies into smaller bite-sized squares transforms them into perfect finger foods for parties. For a fun twist, layer brownies and ganache in little glasses for an individual “brownie parfait” presentation that makes serving hassle-free and impressive. You can even sprinkle flaky sea salt atop the ganache before it sets to elevate the flavor profile beautifully.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Chocolate Ganache Brownies keep wonderfully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, allowing the flavors to meld and the texture to stay moist. If your kitchen is warm, storing them in the fridge is also an option, though it may slightly firm up the ganache, which some find delicious.
Freezing
Want to save these delights for later? Wrap the brownies tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. They freeze well for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator to keep the ganache intact and texture perfect.
Reheating
For a freshly baked feel, gently warm individual brownie pieces in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds. This brings back that gooey softness and slightly melts the ganache, making each bite decadently irresistible. Just be cautious not to overheat to keep that perfect texture.
FAQs
Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet for the ganache?
Absolutely! Dark chocolate can provide a richer, slightly more bitter contrast to the sweetness of the brownies, which many chocolate lovers prefer. Just make sure to use good quality chocolate for the best results.
What if I want my brownies cakier instead of fudgy?
For cakier brownies, you can add a bit more flour and reduce the butter slightly. Also, baking them a minute or two longer will help develop a firmer crumb. However, this Chocolate Ganache Brownies Recipe shines brightest with that fudgy texture.
Can I substitute heavy cream in the ganache with something else?
Heavy cream gives ganache its signature smoothness and shine. You could try coconut cream for a dairy-free option, though it’ll add a subtle coconut flavor and may change the texture. Avoid milk as it’s too thin to create a proper ganache.
Is it okay to use salted butter instead of unsalted?
While you can, it’s best to use unsalted butter so you can control the salt content precisely. If using salted butter, reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe to prevent the brownies from becoming too salty.
How can I make the ganache layer thicker?
To thicken ganache, simply increase the amount of chocolate relative to cream. Using more chocolate chips or reducing the cream a bit results in a denser ganache. Letting it chill longer before spreading also helps it hold its shape better.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about mastering the Chocolate Ganache Brownies Recipe, from the fudgy, chocolate-packed base to the glossy, dreamy ganache topping. This recipe is approachable yet impressive and sure to become a beloved treat for everyone lucky enough to share it with you. So grab your mixing bowl, warm up that oven, and treat yourself to some homemade indulgence that tastes like a little piece of chocolate heaven.
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Chocolate Ganache Brownies Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes plus 30 minutes setting time
- Yield: 9 brownies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Chocolate Ganache Brownies are rich, fudgy, and topped with a smooth, luscious chocolate ganache. Perfectly baked to achieve a moist and tender crumb, they make an irresistible dessert for any chocolate lover.
Ingredients
Brownies
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Ganache
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8 inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth and combined. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, then whisk again until fully incorporated and the mixture is slightly fluffy.
- Add dry ingredients: Sift or stir in the cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder into the wet mixture. Gently fold the ingredients together until just combined, taking care not to overmix to maintain tender brownies.
- Incorporate chocolate chips: Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly throughout the batter for bursts of melty chocolate.
- Bake the brownies: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 22 to 25 minutes until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached, indicating the ideal fudgy texture.
- Cool the brownies: Remove the pan from the oven and let the brownies cool completely in the pan, allowing them to set before adding the ganache.
- Prepare the ganache: Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat just until it begins to simmer—avoid boiling. Pour the hot cream over the semi-sweet chocolate chips placed in a heatproof bowl and let them sit for 2 minutes to soften.
- Stir ganache: Stir the mixture gently until smooth and glossy, ensuring all the chocolate is melted and combined with the cream.
- Apply ganache: Spread the ganache evenly over the cooled brownies using a spatula or the back of a spoon, covering the entire surface.
- Set before serving: Allow the ganache to set at room temperature for at least 30 minutes or refrigerate briefly to speed up the process before slicing into 9 squares and serving.
Notes
- For extra fudgy brownies, slightly underbake them by a couple of minutes.
- Chilling the brownies helps the ganache set faster and results in cleaner slices.
- Add a pinch of espresso powder to the batter to intensify the chocolate flavor without affecting sweetness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
