If you are a chocolate lover looking for the ultimate indulgence, this Chocolate Ganache Brownies Recipe will quickly become your new favorite. These brownies are rich, fudgy, and topped with an irresistibly silky chocolate ganache that elevates every bite. With a perfect balance of sweetness and a deep chocolate flavor, these brownies are the cozy dessert you’ll want to make again and again. Whether for a special occasion or just a treat to brighten your day, this recipe delivers a chocolate experience that feels both decadent and comforting.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Chocolate Ganache Brownies Recipe lies in its simple yet purposeful ingredients. Each element plays a vital role in crafting the perfect texture, flavor, and luscious finish that make these brownies so memorable.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Adds richness and keeps the brownies moist.
- 6 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped: Creates the deep chocolate base and fudgy texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Balances bitterness and contributes to the chewy bite.
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed: Brings a subtle caramel note and tenderness.
- 3 large eggs (room temperature): Provide structure and a glossy finish to the batter.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor complexity.
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour: The framework that holds the brownies together without weighing them down.
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Intensifies the chocolate flavor with a hint of earthiness.
- 1/2 teaspoon fine salt: Balances sweetness and sharpens the chocolate notes.
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional): Adds pockets of melty chocolate for extra decadence.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (for ganache): Creates the smooth and luscious ganache topping.
- 6 ounces semi-sweet or dark chocolate, chopped (for ganache): Forms the glossy, rich ganache layer.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional for ganache): Adds shine and silkiness to the ganache.
- Flaky salt or chocolate shavings (optional for topping): Elevates the final presentation with texture and flavor contrast.
How to Make Chocolate Ganache Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Melt Chocolate
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy brownie removal. Gently melt the butter and 6 ounces of chopped semi-sweet chocolate together in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 20-second intervals and stirring in between for a perfectly smooth mix. Let this luxurious chocolate mixture cool slightly for about 5 minutes to avoid cooking your eggs in the next steps.
Step 2: Whisk Sugars and Eggs
Whisk the granulated sugar and brown sugar into the melted chocolate and butter mix until combined. Then, add the eggs one at a time, whisking thoroughly after each to achieve that gorgeous glossy texture that promises fudgy brownies. Stir in the vanilla extract to infuse a subtle aromatic warmth.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients and Batter
Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and fine salt to ensure an even distribution of flavors. Gently fold these dry ingredients into your wet chocolate batter, taking care not to overmix — the goal is just until no streaks remain to preserve a tender crumb. If you love extra melty chocolate moments, fold in the optional chocolate chips now.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan and spread carefully. Bake for 22 to 28 minutes, depending on whether you prefer fudgier or slightly cakier brownies. You’ll know they’re done when the edges are set but a toothpick inserted in the center reveals moist crumbs. Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before moving on to the next step — patience here is key for a neat ganache topping.
Step 5: Make the Ganache
Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until steaming, but avoid boiling. Pour the warm cream over the 6 ounces of chopped semi-sweet or dark chocolate and let it rest for 2 minutes. Then whisk gently until the mixture is smooth and glossy. For a beautiful shine and extra richness, whisk in the optional tablespoon of butter at the end.
Step 6: Finish with Ganache and Chill
Pour the ganache evenly over the cooled brownies and spread into a smooth layer. Put the pan in the refrigerator and chill for 45 to 60 minutes until the ganache is firm and set. Finally, lift the brownies out using the parchment overhang, slice with a warm knife for clean edges, and sprinkle with flaky salt or chocolate shavings if you want a fancy finishing touch.
How to Serve Chocolate Ganache Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of flaky sea salt adds a savory contrast that makes the chocolate flavor pop. Alternatively, chocolate shavings or a dusting of cocoa powder give an elegant, refined look perfect for special occasions. Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream can also add a fresh and light balance to these decadently rich brownies.
Side Dishes
These brownies shine all on their own but pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or some homemade whipped cream makes for a dessert that’s truly unforgettable. For a refreshing touch, serve alongside fresh fruit like strawberries or raspberries that cut through the richness beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the Chocolate Ganache Brownies into bite-sized squares and placing them on a decorative platter for a party spread. You can also stack smaller brownie pieces between layers of whipped cream and berries in a trifle dish for a show-stopping dessert centerpiece. No matter how you present them, these brownies are sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Keeping them sealed helps maintain their moist, fudgy texture while preserving that silky ganache top.
Freezing
If you want to keep these brownies longer, freeze them in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. For best results, slice before freezing so you can enjoy single servings without thawing the whole batch.
Reheating
To enjoy brownies warm, pop a slice in the microwave for about 15 seconds. This will soften the ganache just enough to bring out its luscious creaminess without losing that delicious fudgy bite beneath.
FAQs
Can I substitute the semi-sweet chocolate for milk or dark chocolate in this recipe?
Absolutely! Using milk chocolate will yield a sweeter, creamier brownie, while dark chocolate creates a more intense, bittersweet flavor. Both choices work well in the ganache and batter, so feel free to customize according to your preference.
What’s the secret to getting fudgy brownies instead of cakey?
The trick is to avoid overmixing once you add the flour and to bake the brownies just until the edges set and a toothpick shows moist crumbs. Also, incorporating both granulated and brown sugar helps keep them moist with a subtle chewiness.
Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
This particular recipe relies on eggs, butter, and cream, so it’s not vegan as is. However, you can experiment with plant-based substitutes for butter and cream, and use flax eggs to replace eggs. Keep in mind the texture and flavor may be slightly different.
Why should I chill the brownies before slicing?
Chilling the brownies after adding ganache gives it time to set firmly, making slicing cleaner and easier. Plus, colder brownies hold their shape better and won’t crumble or smudge when cut.
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend designed for 1:1 substitution. That said, be mindful to choose a blend that includes xanthan gum or another binder to maintain the structure and fudginess.
Final Thoughts
This Chocolate Ganache Brownies Recipe is a surefire way to savor the very best of chocolate in one exceptional dessert. From the fudgy, rich base to the silky ganache topping, every bite feels like a little moment of joy. I hope you’ll enjoy making and sharing these brownies as much as I do — they truly bring a warm, delicious hug in every square.
Print
Chocolate Ganache Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Chocolate Ganache Brownies are rich, fudgy, and topped with a glossy, smooth chocolate ganache that adds an extra layer of decadent flavor. Perfectly balanced between sweet and bittersweet, these homemade brownies are an irresistible American dessert favorite, easy to make and great for gatherings or a luxurious treat.
Ingredients
Brownie Batter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 6 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon fine salt
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Chocolate Ganache
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 6 ounces semi-sweet or dark chocolate, chopped
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional, for shine)
Toppings (Optional)
- Flaky salt
- Chocolate shavings
Instructions
- Prepare Pan and Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to easily lift out the brownies after baking.
- Melt Butter and Chocolate: In a heatproof bowl, melt the butter and 6 ounces of chopped semi-sweet chocolate together in the microwave using 20-second bursts, stirring in between until smooth. Allow the mixture to cool for about 5 minutes.
- Mix Sugars and Eggs: Whisk the granulated sugar and brown sugar into the cooled chocolate mixture. Then, add the eggs one at a time, whisking after each addition until the batter becomes glossy and smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Fold these dry ingredients gently into the wet mixture just until no dry streaks remain. If desired, fold in the chocolate chips at this stage.
- Bake the Brownies: Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan. Bake for 22 to 28 minutes, or until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs but not wet batter. Avoid overbaking to keep the brownies fudgy.
- Cool the Brownies: Let the brownies cool completely in the pan, allowing the texture to set properly before adding the ganache.
- Prepare the Ganache: Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan or microwave until steaming but not boiling. Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate, letting it sit undisturbed for 2 minutes. Whisk the mixture until it becomes smooth and glossy. Stir in the tablespoon of butter if using for added shine.
- Top and Chill: Pour the ganache evenly over the cooled brownies, spreading it into a smooth layer with a spatula. Chill the pan in the refrigerator for 45 to 60 minutes or until the ganache is set solid.
- Slice and Serve: Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the brownies from the pan. Slice the brownies with a warm, clean knife for neat cuts. Optionally, sprinkle flaky salt or chocolate shavings on top before serving for extra flavor and presentation.
Notes
- For fudgier brownies, bake on the lower end of the time range and avoid overmixing after adding the flour.
- Chilling the brownies before slicing helps to achieve cleaner cuts; wipe the knife between cuts for best results.
- You can substitute the ganache chocolate with milk chocolate for a sweeter finish, or use bittersweet chocolate for a deeper, less sweet flavor.
