French Silk Brownies Recipe
Introduction
French Silk Brownies are a rich, decadent treat that combines the deep flavors of cocoa with a smooth, creamy chocolate frosting. Perfect for chocolate lovers looking for a dessert that’s both fudgy and silky.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (for frosting)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking pan to prevent sticking.
- Step 2: In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- Step 3: In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Step 4: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract, mixing well after each addition.
- Step 5: Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture, stirring just until incorporated.
- Step 6: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with moist crumbs.
- Step 7: While the brownies bake, prepare the frosting by gently heating the chocolate chips with heavy cream until smooth and creamy.
- Step 8: Allow the brownies to cool completely before spreading the chocolate frosting evenly over the top.
Tips & Variations
- For an extra fudgy texture, reduce the flour by 2 tablespoons.
- Use semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips depending on your preferred chocolate intensity.
- Add a pinch of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor.
- Top with chopped nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt for added texture and flavor contrast.
Storage
Store French Silk Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat refrigerated brownies briefly at room temperature before serving to soften the frosting.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use baking soda instead of baking powder?
Baking powder is preferred for this recipe as it provides the right lift and texture. Baking soda alone may not produce the same results since it requires an acid to activate.
How do I know when the brownies are done?
Check by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out with moist crumbs but not wet batter. The brownies will continue to set as they cool.
PrintFrench Silk Brownies Recipe
Decadent French Silk Brownies featuring a rich, fudgy chocolate base topped with a luscious, smooth chocolate cream frosting. This indulgent dessert combines the dense texture of classic brownies with the airy silkiness of French chocolate mousse for an unforgettable treat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 9 brownies (8×8 inch pan) 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French-inspired
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Frosting
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour an 8×8 inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. This incorporates air for a tender texture.
- Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract for added flavor.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep brownies tender.
- Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. The brownies should be set but still fudgy.
- Prepare the Chocolate Frosting: While the brownies bake, heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and pour over the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Let sit for 2-3 minutes to melt, then stir until smooth and glossy.
- Frost the Brownies: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, spread the prepared chocolate cream frosting evenly over the top with a spatula.
- Serve: Slice into squares and serve. Enjoy the rich, silky texture that marries fudgy brownie with creamy chocolate frosting.
Notes
- For extra richness, use high-quality dark cocoa powder and chocolate chips.
- Ensure brownies are fully cooled before frosting to prevent melting.
- You can refrigerate the brownies after frosting to set the frosting if desired.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
Keywords: French silk brownies, chocolate brownies, fudgy brownies, chocolate frosting, rich chocolate dessert
