Chocolate Ganache Brownies

If you have a passion for chocolate and crave the ultimate dessert experience, you will find Chocolate Ganache Brownies absolutely irresistible. This rich, fudgy treat combines the dense texture of classic brownies with a smooth, glossy ganache topping that melts in your mouth with every bite. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, these brownies strike the perfect balance of bold chocolate flavor and silky decadence, making them a must-have recipe for any chocolate lover’s repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Chocolate Bliss: These brownies deliver an intense chocolate flavor that satisfies even the strongest sweet tooth cravings.
• Perfect Texture Harmony: The fudgy brownie base pairs wonderfully with the creamy ganache layer for an irresistible contrast.
• Easy to Make: Using simple, straightforward ingredients means you’ll be baking these in no time.
• Versatile Dessert: Whether for a special occasion or a casual treat, these brownies always steal the show.
• Impresses Everyone: From friends to family, this dessert gets raving reviews every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Chocolate Ganache Brownies recipe plays a crucial role in building its rich flavor and perfect texture. From velvety chocolate to fresh eggs, the components are simple yet essential for achieving brownie bliss.

• High-quality dark chocolate: Using good chocolate ensures deep, authentic cocoa flavor.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds extra chocolate intensity and a fudgy texture.
• Unsalted butter: Provides richness and helps create that smooth brownie crumb.
• Granulated sugar: Balances bitterness from the chocolate with just the right sweetness.
• Large eggs: Bind the ingredients and support the soft, gooey interior.
• All-purpose flour: Gives structure without making the brownies cakey.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall chocolate aroma and depth.
• Heavy cream: Essential for making the silky ganache topping.
• Optional: sea salt pinch: Highlights the chocolate notes and balances sweetness.

Variations for Chocolate Ganache Brownies

One of the best things about Chocolate Ganache Brownies is how easily you can tweak them to suit your mood or dietary needs. Feel free to experiment with these delicious variations!

• Nuts added: Chopped walnuts or pecans add a satisfying crunch and contrast.
• Dairy-free option: Substitute coconut cream for heavy cream and use dairy-free chocolate for ganache.
• Spiced version: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne for a warming kick.
• Salted caramel swirl: Incorporate caramel ribbons into the batter before baking for a luscious surprise.
• Mint-chocolate twist: Stir in peppermint extract to the ganache for refreshing flavor.

How to Make Chocolate Ganache Brownies

Step 1: Prepare your ingredients

Measure out all the ingredients and chop your chocolate finely to ensure it melts evenly. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Melt butter and chocolate

In a heatproof bowl over simmering water, gently melt the butter and dark chocolate together, stirring often until smooth and glossy. This forms the flavorful base of your brownies.

Step 3: Mix in sugar and eggs

Remove from heat and whisk in the granulated sugar. Then add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to create a thick, smooth batter full of chocolate goodness.

Step 4: Add dry ingredients

Sift together cocoa powder, flour, and a pinch of sea salt (if using), then fold them gently into the wet mixture. Avoid overmixing to maintain moistness and fudginess.

Step 5: Bake the brownies

Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading evenly. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still looks slightly underbaked to preserve that fudgy texture.

Step 6: Prepare the ganache

While the brownies bake, heat heavy cream until just simmering and pour it over chopped dark chocolate. Let sit for a few minutes, then stir until completely smooth and glossy.

Step 7: Spread ganache on brownies

Once brownies have cooled slightly, pour the ganache evenly on top and spread with a spatula. Allow it to set at room temperature or refrigerate briefly to firm up before slicing.

Pro Tips for Making Chocolate Ganache Brownies

• Use quality chocolate: The resulting flavor depends heavily on the chocolate’s quality, so invest in chocolate with at least 60-70% cocoa.
• Don’t overbake: To maintain fudgy centers, remove brownies when a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs, not dry.
• Room temperature eggs: Helps the batter mix better and create a smoother texture.
• Let brownies cool before slicing: Ganache firms up as it cools, making cleaner cuts and better presentation.
• Customize ganache consistency: Adjust cream-to-chocolate ratio for thicker or thinner ganache based on preference.

How to Serve Chocolate Ganache Brownies

Garnishes

A sprinkle of powdered sugar, a few fresh raspberries, or a light dusting of cocoa powder adds a beautiful finishing touch and extra flavor contrast to your brownies.

Side Dishes

Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, some whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce to elevate these brownies into a café-worthy dessert.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut brownies into bite-sized squares or wedges and serve on a fancy platter with edible flowers or chopped nuts for a stunning presentation at parties or gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Chocolate Ganache Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to keep them moist and rich.

Freezing

Wrap brownies tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving to preserve the ganache’s silky texture.

Reheating

Warm individual servings in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to soften the ganache and reawaken the decadent fudgy texture without drying out the brownies.

FAQs

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

While milk chocolate can be used, dark chocolate enhances the rich, intense chocolate flavor that makes these brownies so special. Milk chocolate may result in a sweeter, less fudgy texture.

How do I know when the brownies are done?

The brownies are ready when the edges are set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs but not raw batter. This ensures a fudgy interior.

Is it necessary to use heavy cream for the ganache?

Heavy cream is best for creating that smooth, silky ganache texture. However, full-fat coconut milk works well as a dairy-free alternative.

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend and ensure your cocoa powder and chocolate are gluten-free certified.

How long does it take for the ganache to set?

Ganache typically sets at room temperature within 1-2 hours, but you can speed up the process by refrigerating for 20-30 minutes.

Final Thoughts

Chocolate Ganache Brownies are truly a chocolate lover’s dream come true — rich, fudgy, and topped with an irresistibly smooth ganache that adds an extra layer of indulgence. Whether you’re treating yourself or impressing guests, this recipe is an absolute winner that’s easy to make and hard to forget. So go ahead, give it a try and savor every luscious bite!

Related Posts

• Tiramisu Cookies
• The Best Tiramisu Brownies
• Quick & Easy Coconut Dome

Print