Name: Chocolate Ganache Brownies Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 142 g unsalted butter (5 oz); 115 g dark chocolate (45-60% cocoa), finely chopped (4 oz); 3 large eggs, room temperature; ¾ cup white granulated sugar (150 g / 5.3 oz); ½ cup packed brown sugar (100 g / 3.5 oz); 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract; 95 g plain flour (all-purpose flour) (¾ cup / 3.4 oz); 25 g unsweetened cocoa powder (or Dutch process) (¼ cup / ~1 oz); ½ teaspoon salt (cooking salt or kosher salt); 170 g dark chocolate (45-60% cocoa) (6 oz), finely chopped; ½ cup thickened cream (heavy cream) (125 ml)

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If you’re searching for the ultimate chocolate experience in dessert form, this Chocolate Ganache Brownies Recipe is exactly what you need. These brownies marry a deeply rich, fudgy base with a glossy, smooth ganache topping that adds an irresistible layer of decadence. Every bite offers a perfect bite of chocolate indulgence, enhanced by a slightly crisp edge and a luxuriously creamy finish. Whether you’re sharing at a family gathering or craving a personal treat, this recipe will quickly become your go-to favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A shiny silver pot is filled with smooth, dark brown chocolate mixture, covering the entire inside surface. A bright turquoise spatula with a rounded tip is partially dipped into the chocolate, blending softly and leaving a neat texture in the liquid. The pot sits on a black cooking surface, and a light gray textured towel is lying nearby on a white marbled countertop. The scene is viewed from above, showing the glossy and thick look of the melted chocolate photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Chocolate Ganache Brownies Recipe lies in its simplicity and the quality of ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role, from the buttery richness and dark chocolate intensity to the perfect balance of sugars and the subtle vanilla enhancement. These essentials come together to create that moist, tender crumb and the luscious ganache topping that makes these brownies unforgettable.

142 g unsalted butter (5oz): Provides a rich, creamy base essential for tender and moist brownies.
115 g dark chocolate (45-60% cocoa), finely chopped (4oz): Adds deep chocolate flavor and smooth texture to the brownie batter.
3 large eggs (room temperature): Help bind ingredients and add structure while keeping the brownies moist.
¾ cup white granulated sugar (150g / 5.3oz): Sweetens the brownies and contributes to a delicate crust on top.
½ cup packed brown sugar (100g / 3 ½ oz): Adds moisture and a subtle caramel note to enrich the flavor.
1 ½ teaspoon vanilla: Enhances the chocolate flavor with its warm, aromatic depth.
95 g plain flour (¾ cup / 3.4oz): Provides just enough structure without weighing down the brownies.
25 g unsweetened cocoa powder or Dutch process (¼ cup / ~1oz): Intensifies the chocolate flavor and deepens color.
½ teaspoon salt (cooking or kosher salt): Balances sweetness and brings out all the rich flavors.
170 g dark chocolate (45-60% cocoa) (6oz): Used in the ganache to create that luscious, glossy topping.
½ cup thickened cream (heavy cream) (125ml): Adds richness and smoothness to the ganache for a heavenly finish.

How to Make Chocolate Ganache Brownies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (160°C fan forced) or 350°F. Line an 8-inch square baking pan with baking paper, making sure to leave some overhang for easy removal of the brownies later. Taking these steps upfront ensures your brownies bake evenly and come out of the pan smoothly without sticking.

Step 2: Melt Butter and Chocolate

In a saucepan over low heat, gently melt together the unsalted butter and 115 grams of finely chopped dark chocolate. Be careful not to let the mixture steam or boil, as this could seize the chocolate. This rich blend is the heart of the brownie, supplying that silky texture you crave. Set this aside to cool slightly before mixing it with the other ingredients.

Step 3: Beat Eggs and Sugars

In a large bowl, beat the eggs with both the white granulated and brown sugars for about two minutes until the mixture is pale, thick, and fluffy. This step incorporates air, making the brownies delightfully tender while adding a slight bounce to the texture.

Step 4: Combine Chocolate Mixture and Vanilla

Add the vanilla extract to the egg and sugar mix, then slowly pour in the cooled butter and chocolate mixture while continuing to beat. This gradual incorporation helps keep the batter uniform and luscious, setting the stage for perfectly dense brownies.

Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Sift together the plain flour, cocoa powder, and salt, then fold them into the wet mixture on low speed. To avoid flour flying everywhere, keep the beaters in the center until the batter just comes together. This ensures a smooth, fudgy result without overmixing.

Step 6: Bake the Brownies

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. Test readiness with a toothpick: it should come out with some sticky batter attached but not liquid. Overbaking will lead to drier brownies, so keep an eye on the clock.

Step 7: Make the Ganache

While the brownies cool to room temperature, finely chop 170 grams of dark chocolate and place it in a medium bowl. Heat the thickened cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it is heavily steaming but not boiling. Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate and give the bowl a gentle shake to settle the chocolate underneath. Let it sit for two minutes to allow the chocolate to soften, then stir until smooth and glossy.

Step 8: Spread Ganache Topping

Once the brownies have cooled, spread the ganache evenly over the surface using a spatula. Run the spatula through the ganache to create pretty swirls that add an elegant touch. Refrigerate the brownies for one to two hours until the ganache is completely set and ready to be sliced.

How to Serve Chocolate Ganache Brownies Recipe

This image shows a stack of three thick, square chocolate brownies with two clear layers in each piece a bottom dark, dense, and slightly crumbly layer, topped by a smooth, firm chocolate layer with subtle texture on top. The edges are clean but slightly rough, and the brownies have a rich dark brown color. In the blurred background, more brownies can be seen on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your Chocolate Ganache Brownies Recipe, consider garnishing with a dusting of cocoa powder or powdered sugar for a delicate matte finish. Fresh berries, like raspberries or strawberries, add a refreshing contrast that cuts through the richness. For a bit of crunch, sprinkle chopped toasted nuts or flaky sea salt over the ganache right before it sets.

Side Dishes

Pair these decadent brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for an utterly indulgent dessert. A cup of strong espresso or rich hot chocolate complements the deep chocolate flavors beautifully, making the experience truly memorable.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider slicing the brownies into small squares for bite-sized treats at a party or arranging them on a platter with alternating plain and ganache-topped pieces. For a fun twist, serve brownies layered with fresh fruit or drizzle a light caramel sauce for extra sweetness. Wrapping individual pieces in parchment paper tied with a ribbon also makes for an inviting edible gift.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover brownies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This will preserve the fudgy texture and keep the ganache smooth. If your kitchen is particularly warm, refrigeration is an option, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving to enjoy their full flavor and softness.

Freezing

You can freeze the brownies to extend their shelf life up to three months. Cut them into portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw the brownies in the refrigerator overnight and bring them to room temperature for the best texture.

Reheating

To enjoy warm, gooey brownies, reheat individual servings gently in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds. This softens the ganache and warms the chocolate without drying out the brownie. For a more even heat, wrap the portion in foil and warm in a low oven for 10 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate for this Chocolate Ganache Brownies Recipe?

Milk chocolate is sweeter and less intense than dark chocolate, so while you can substitute it, the brownies will have a milder chocolate flavor and sweeter profile. If using milk chocolate, consider reducing the sugar slightly in the recipe to balance sweetness.

Do I need to use Dutch processed cocoa powder or can I use natural cocoa?

Both types will work, but Dutch processed cocoa is less acidic and has a smoother, less bitter flavor, which complements the brownies and ganache nicely. Natural cocoa has a sharper flavor that can add a pleasant depth but may slightly affect the texture.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the plain flour with a gluten-free all-purpose baking flour blend that contains xanthan gum. This will give you a very similar texture and keep your brownies just as moist and fudgy.

Is it necessary to refrigerate the brownies after adding the ganache?

Refrigerating the brownies after adding the ganache helps it set firmly, making slicing cleaner and the ganache more stable. If you prefer a softer ganache, you can skip refrigeration but the topping may be less firm at room temperature.

How can I tell when the brownies are perfectly baked?

The best test is the toothpick method: insert a toothpick in the center and it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. This ensures your brownies are fudgy inside without being undercooked or overly fudged to the point of being wet.

Final Thoughts

This Chocolate Ganache Brownies Recipe is truly a celebration of chocolate in its richest, most luxurious form. Each step, from baking the brownies to creating the silky ganache, is a labor of love that pays off in decadent flavor and perfect texture. I encourage you to try this recipe and share it with friends and family—it’s one of those desserts that never fails to delight and impress. Trust me, once you make these brownies, they’ll become a beloved classic in your dessert repertoire!