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French Silk Brownies Recipe

5 from 146 reviews

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

Instructions

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. 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.
  9. 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