Description
French Silk Brownies combine the rich, fudgy texture of classic brownies with a luscious, creamy chocolate topping inspired by French silk pie. This decadent dessert features a moist chocolate brownie base topped with a smooth, silky chocolate ganache layer, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors that will delight any chocolate lover.
Ingredients
Scale
Brownie Base
- 1 box brownie mix (or homemade brownie mix)
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup water
French Silk Topping
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 6 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the brownies.
- Mix and Bake Brownie Batter: Prepare the brownie batter according to the package instructions using the eggs, vegetable oil, and water. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs but not raw batter.
- Cool the Brownies: Remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan to ensure the topping sets properly and the texture remains moist.
- Heat Heavy Cream: In a saucepan, gently heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Avoid boiling to prevent cream from scorching.
- Make Chocolate Ganache: Pour the hot cream over the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a mixing bowl. Stir continuously until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Add Butter and Vanilla: Stir in the butter and vanilla extract into the chocolate mixture until well combined. Let this ganache cool slightly to thicken for easier spreading.
- Apply Ganache Topping: Spread the slightly cooled chocolate ganache evenly over the completely cooled brownie base, creating a smooth top layer.
- Chill to Set: Place the brownies in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours to allow the chocolate topping to firm up and set beautifully.
- Dust with Powdered Sugar and Serve: Just before serving, dust the set chocolate layer lightly with powdered sugar for a delicate, elegant finish.
Notes
- Ensure the brownies are fully cooled before adding the ganache topping to prevent it from melting or becoming runny.
- Use good quality semi-sweet chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
- The chilling step is essential to achieve the classic French silk texture in the topping.
- This recipe can be made with homemade brownies if preferred; adjust baking time accordingly.
- Store leftovers refrigerated and consume within 3-4 days for best freshness.
