There’s something blissfully indulgent about a rich, fudgy brownie, especially when it’s topped with a silky chocolate ganache. I discovered this ultimate Chocolate Ganache Brownies recipe on a particularly rainy afternoon when a craving for dessert hit hard. As I rummaged through my pantry, I stumbled upon a stash of dark chocolate and knew right away what I needed to do.
These brownies are not only a feast for the eyes with their glossy ganache finish, but they’re also shockingly easy to whip up, making them a perfect choice for both seasoned chefs and anyone new to baking. Whether you want to impress dinner guests or simply treat yourself after a long day, these brownies deliver an explosion of chocolate flavor without the fuss. So grab your mixing bowl; it’s time to create some heavenly bites of bliss that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Why are Chocolate Ganache Brownies irresistible?
Decadent, elegant treat: These brownies are the ultimate indulgence for chocolate lovers, draped in a silky ganache that elevates dessert to a new level.
Unmatched simplicity: With just 10 easy steps, you’ll create a rich dessert that requires minimal effort but makes a big impact.
Rich, fudgy texture: The combination of chocolate and butter results in an intensely fudgy brownie that melts in your mouth.
Quick to prepare: Perfect for an impromptu get-together or late-night cravings, these brownies are quick to make and can be ready in no time!
Versatile options: Feel free to customize the recipe with nuts, chocolate chips, or even a touch of espresso for an extra flavor kick. Enjoy them warm, perhaps with a scoop of ice cream, as a heavenly treat that everyone will adore!
Chocolate Ganache Brownie Ingredients
For the Brownies
- Unsalted Butter (142g / 5oz) – Provides richness and moisture; feel free to use salted butter for an enhanced flavor.
- Dark Chocolate (115g / 4oz, 45-60% cocoa) – Adds a deep chocolate flavor; chop it finely for quicker melting.
- Large Eggs (3, room temperature) – Essential for structure and moisture; using room temperature eggs aids in better emulsification.
- White Granulated Sugar (¾ cup / 150g / 5.3oz) – Sweetens the brownies; swap some with brown sugar for a richer taste.
- Brown Sugar (½ cup packed / 100g / 3.5oz) – Contributes moisture and a hint of caramel flavor.
- Vanilla Extract (1 ½ teaspoon) – Enhances the chocolate’s flavor profile.
- Plain Flour (95g / ¾ cup / 3.4oz) – Provides necessary structure; gluten-free all-purpose flour is a perfect substitute if needed.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (25g / ¼ cup) – Intensifies the chocolate flavor; opting for Dutch process cocoa offers a milder acidity.
- Salt (½ teaspoon) – Balances the sweetness beautifully.
For the Ganache
- Dark Chocolate for Ganache (170g / 6oz, 45-60% cocoa) – Ensures a rich chocolate topping; using high-quality chocolate elevates the dessert.
- Thickened Cream (½ cup / 125ml) – Creates a smooth, luxurious ganache consistency that complements the brownies perfectly.
Dive into baking these Chocolate Ganache Brownies, and bring unparalleled joy to your dessert table!
How to Make Chocolate Ganache Brownies
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Preheat: Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Don’t forget to line an 8-inch square baking pan with baking paper to ensure easy removal later!
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Melt: In a heavy-based saucepan, melt the unsalted butter and dark chocolate over low heat. Stir constantly until the mixture is smooth and glossy—a tempting start to your brownie-making adventure!
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Beat: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the room temperature eggs and white granulated sugar for about 2 minutes. You’re aiming for a thick, pale mixture—this is what will make your brownies so luscious!
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Combine: Slowly pour the melted chocolate and butter mixture into the egg-sugar blend while mixing on low speed. Watch as the rich chocolate color deepens—it’s going to be delightful!
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Sift: Sift the plain flour, cocoa powder, and salt over the chocolate mixture. Gently combine everything until just mixed. Overmixing can lead to less fudginess, so keep it light!
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Pour: Pour the brownie batter into your prepared pan. Spread it evenly and pop it in the oven to bake for 35-40 minutes. You’re looking for a sticky crumb when checking with a toothpick.
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Cool: Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool to room temperature in the pan. Patience will pay off as they set beautifully!
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Heat: For the ganache, heat the thickened cream in a saucepan until it’s steaming but not boiling. Pour it over the chopped dark chocolate and let it sit for 2 minutes before stirring until silky smooth.
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Spread: Generously spread the luscious ganache over the cooled brownies. Don’t skimp—this is where the magic happens! Chill in the fridge for 1 hour or until set.
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Serve: Cut into squares and serve those decadent brownies to your eager family or friends. Enjoy every delightful bite!
Optional: Top with a sprinkle of sea salt for an extra flavor boost!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Chocolate Ganache Brownies Variations
Looking to elevate your baking experience? Here are some delightful, easy-to-try twists that will make your brownies even more scrumptious!
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Espresso Boost: Add ½-1 teaspoon of espresso powder to the batter for a rich depth of flavor that complements the chocolate beautifully.
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Nutty Crunch: Mix in ½ cup of walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that adds texture and a nutty flavor to each bite.
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Chocolate Chip Surprise: Fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips for extra melty pockets of chocolate that enhance the fudginess of your brownies.
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Minty Fresh: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the ganache for a refreshing twist; it’s like a chocolate brownie with a minty breeze!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute plain flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour to satisfy gluten-sensitive friends without compromising on taste or texture.
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Coconut Bliss: Stir in ½ cup of shredded coconut to the brownie batter for a tropical hint that pairs perfectly with the chocolate.
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Spicy Kick: For those who like it hot, sprinkle in 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the brownie batter—don’t be shy, just enough for a gentle warmth that surprises!
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Caramel Swirl: Drizzle caramel sauce into the batter before baking to create a gooey swirl that brings a lovely sweetness and a touch of decadence.
What to Serve with Chocolate Ganache Brownies?
Indulging in these heavenly brownies brings immense satisfaction, but pairing them with perfect accompaniments elevates the experience even further.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy richness of vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the fudgy brownies, offering a delightful temperature and texture contrast.
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Fresh Berries: Bright strawberries or raspberries add a tartness that cuts through the sweetness, creating a refreshing balance to the decadent chocolate.
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Espresso or Coffee: A hot cup of espresso enhances the chocolate flavors, providing a warm and inviting break between rich bites. Consider also a mocha for an extra caffeine kick!
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Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling a bit of extra chocolate sauce on top adds an indulgent touch—because more chocolate is always a good idea!
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream adds a fluffy element that perfectly complements the dense brownie, making each bite feel luxurious.
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Caramel Sauce: Warm caramel sauce brings a gooey sweetness that pairs beautifully with chocolate, creating a classic flavor duo that everyone loves.
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Nutty Crunch: Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans sprinkled on top introduce a delightful crunch to the soft texture of the brownies while adding depth to the flavor.
Treat your taste buds and your loved ones by exploring these tantalizing pairings with your Chocolate Ganache Brownies!
Make Ahead Options
These Chocolate Ganache Brownies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the brownie batter up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just mix everything up to the point of pouring it into the baking pan, cover tightly, and keep it chilled. The ganache can also be made ahead; simply prepare it and let it cool, then refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, bring the batter to room temperature, pour it into the pan, and pop it in the oven. This way, you’ll have those rich, fudgy brownies ready to impress with minimal effort and just as delicious as if they were freshly made!
How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Ganache Brownies
Fridge: Store your Chocolate Ganache Brownies in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This keeps them fresh while maintaining their rich, fudgy texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, individually wrap brownies in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months, ready to enjoy whenever a chocolate craving strikes!
Reheating: To enjoy your brownies warm, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, then microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This way, the ganache remains silky and irresistible.
Room Temperature: If you’d like to keep them handy for a few hours, you can leave them at room temperature for up to 2 hours. Just make sure they’re covered to prevent drying out!
Expert Tips for Chocolate Ganache Brownies
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs are at room temperature to ensure they blend smoothly. Cold ingredients can cause the mixture to seize.
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Perfectly Fudgy: Avoid overmixing the batter once the flour is added. This is key to achieving that rich, fudgy texture in your brownies.
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Check for Doneness: When baking, check your brownies slightly underbaked; they will continue to set as they cool. A toothpick should come out with sticky crumbs!
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Ganache Consistency: Let the hot cream sit over the chopped chocolate before stirring. This step ensures a beautifully smooth ganache for your Chocolate Ganache Brownies.
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Clean Cuts: Use a sharp knife to cut the brownies, and wipe the blade between cuts for clean edges. It enhances the presentation and makes serving easier!
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Flavor Enhancements: For an extra kick, consider adding espresso powder or nuts to the batter—both pair wonderfully with the rich chocolate flavor.
Chocolate Ganache Brownies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chocolate for my brownies?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, opt for dark chocolate that has a cocoa content between 45-60%. This range provides a rich taste without being overly bitter. Look for bars that are high-quality and finely chop them to aid in melting. A hint of extra flavor can also come from using chocolate specifically labeled for baking.
How should I store my Chocolate Ganache Brownies?
To keep your brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This preserves their fudgy texture and prevents them from drying out. You can also place a slice of bread in the container to help maintain moisture!
Can I freeze Chocolate Ganache Brownies?
Sure thing! To freeze your brownies, wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
What if my brownies turned out too dry?
Very! If your brownies are drier than expected, it may be due to overbaking or overmixing the batter. Ensure you keep a close eye on them while baking, pulling them out when a toothpick shows sticky crumbs. If they do bake too thoroughly, you can always enjoy them warm served with a scoop of ice cream to add some moisture back!
Can I substitute ingredients for dietary needs?
Absolutely! For a gluten-free option, swap the plain flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour. If you need a dairy-free variety, use dairy-free chocolate and coconut cream for the ganache. For those watching their sugar intake, consider using a sugar alternative that measures like sugar to keep the texture intact.
What should I do if my ganache is too thick?
If your ganache turns out thicker than you’d like, it’s an easy fix! Gently heat a bit more cream and stir it into the ganache gradually until you reach your desired smoothness. A well-made ganache should be silky and easily spreadable, so don’t hesitate to make those adjustments!
Decadent Chocolate Ganache Brownies in Just 10 Easy Steps
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line an 8-inch square baking pan with baking paper.
- Melt the unsalted butter and dark chocolate over low heat in a heavy-based saucepan, stirring until smooth.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together the room temperature eggs and white granulated sugar for about 2 minutes until thick and pale.
- Slowly pour the melted chocolate and butter mixture into the egg-sugar blend while mixing on low speed.
- Sift the plain flour, cocoa powder, and salt over the chocolate mixture, then gently combine until just mixed.
- Pour the brownie batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 35-40 minutes until a toothpick comes out with sticky crumbs.
- Once baked, let the brownies cool to room temperature in the pan.
- Heat the thickened cream in a saucepan until steaming, then pour it over the chopped dark chocolate and let it sit for 2 minutes before stirring until silky smooth.
- Spread the ganache generously over the cooled brownies and chill in the fridge for 1 hour or until set.
- Cut into squares and serve to family or friends.