French Silk Brownies Recipe
French Silk Brownies are a rich, chocolatey dessert combining the fudgy texture of classic brownies with the smooth, creamy silkiness of a chocolate mousse-like frosting. This recipe balances deep cocoa flavor with a luscious chocolate cream topping, resulting in an indulgent treat perfect for chocolate lovers seeking a sophisticated brownie experience.
- Author: Mick
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 9 brownies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Frosting
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined to ensure a uniform chocolate flavor and proper rise.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together with an electric mixer until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color, which helps create a tender crumb.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then mix in the vanilla extract to infuse the batter with a warm aromatic note.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients using a spatula, stirring just until combined to maintain a light, fudgy texture without overmixing.
- Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with moist crumbs but no wet batter.
- Prepare Chocolate Frosting: While the brownies bake, heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat just until it begins to simmer. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl and let sit for 2 minutes. Stir until smooth and glossy to create a silky chocolate ganache.
- Cool and Frost: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cool, spread the chocolate ganache evenly over the top with a spatula for a rich, creamy finish.
- Serve: Cut into squares and serve. These brownies can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to keep the frosting set and fresh.
Notes
- For a more intense chocolate flavor, use high-quality cocoa powder and semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate chips for the frosting.
- Do not overbake the brownies to maintain their moist, fudgy texture.
- Allow brownies to cool completely before frosting to prevent the ganache from melting.
- If preferred, refrigerate the frosted brownies to keep the ganache firm.
- To make cutting easier, chill the brownies for 30 minutes after frosting.
Keywords: French Silk Brownies, Chocolate Brownies, Chocolate Ganache, Fudgy Brownies, Dessert, Chocolate Dessert