There’s a certain joy that comes from transforming a classic favorite into something unexpectedly elegant. Picture this: a gathering of friends, laughter filling the air, when suddenly the dessert plate reveals these stunning Brownie Petit Fours. Each tiny morsel is a treasure trove of rich, fudgy brownie goodness, delicately cloaked in velvety ganache and crowned with a sprinkle of fleur de sel. The first bite delivers a luxurious chocolate experience that feels both indulgent and refined, perfect for any occasion, from weddings to cozy evenings at home.

The beauty of these petite delights lies not only in their sophisticated appearance but also in their versatility. Whether you stick to the traditional semisweet chocolate or explore a sweeter twist with milk chocolate, each option enhances their crowd-pleasing nature. Plus, they can be made ahead, making dessert prep a breeze! Join me as we dive into creating these elegant treats that promise to captivate your taste buds and elevate your dessert game like never before.

Why are Brownie Petit Fours so irresistible?

Indulgent Flavor: Each bite of these petit fours bursts with rich, fudgy goodness, perfectly complemented by silky ganache.
Elegant Presentation: Their small size and glossy surface make them an eye-catching centerpiece for any dessert table.
Versatile Options: Customize your ganache or add toppings to create unique flavor combinations, making them truly your own.
Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare these treats in advance, leaving you free to enjoy gatherings without last-minute stress.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a wedding, party, or cozy night in, these petit fours are sure to impress and satisfy!

Brownie Petit Fours Ingredients

• Prepare to create these delightful, bite-sized treasures!

For the Brownie Base

Semisweet Chocolate (4 oz) – This rich chocolate provides the ultimate fudgy flavor; use milk chocolate for a sweeter alternative.
Unsalted Butter (¾ cup, 165g) – Essential for that moist, rich texture; opt for high-quality butter for the best results.
Granulated Sugar (¾ cup, 150g) – Balances the chocolate’s richness with just the right amount of sweetness.
Light Brown Sugar (½ cup, 100g) – Adds depth and moisture to the brownies, enriching the overall flavor.
Large Eggs (3) – Necessary for binding and structure; ensure they’re at room temperature for better incorporation.
Vanilla Extract (1½ tsp) – Elevates the flavor profile, adding a layer of complexity to your brownies.
All-Purpose Flour (1 cup, 140g) – This provides the brownies with structure; a gluten-free blend works if you’re accommodating dietary restrictions.
Cocoa Powder (¾ cup, 65g) – Intensifies the chocolate experience; using high-quality cocoa will enhance its boldness.
Salt (¾ tsp) – Enhances all the flavors, making every bite unforgettable.

For the Ganache

Heavy Whipping Cream (¾ cup, 6 oz) – The creamy base for your ganache, ensuring it’s luscious and smooth.

For the Finishing Touch

Fleur de Sel – A sprinkle adds a sophisticated salty note, perfectly contrasting the sweetness of the Brownie Petit Fours.

How to Make Brownie Petit Fours

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8×8-inch baking pan by greasing it and lining with parchment paper for easy removal.
Melt semisweet chocolate and unsalted butter together over low heat in a medium saucepan until smooth and glossy, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
Mix in the granulated and light brown sugars, stirring well. Then add the eggs one at a time, whisking after each addition until fully incorporated, and finish with the vanilla extract.
Sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the chocolate mixture until just combined—be careful not to overmix!
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Prepare the ganache by heating the heavy whipping cream in a small saucepan until it simmers. Remove from heat and pour over the chopped chocolate, letting it sit for a few minutes before stirring until smooth.
Cut the cooled brownies into small squares or rectangles. Dip each piece into the ganache, ensuring they are fully coated, and then sprinkle lightly with fleur de sel.
Set the ganache by letting the petit fours rest at room temperature until the coating is firm before serving.

Optional: Serve these petit fours on a decorative platter with fresh berries for an elegant touch.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Storage Tips for Brownie Petit Fours

Room Temperature: Keep your Brownie Petit Fours stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to preserve their fudgy texture.

Fridge: If you want them to last a bit longer, refrigerate the petit fours in an airtight container for up to a week. Just allow them to come to room temperature before serving.

Freezer: For extended storage, freeze the petit fours in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy, thaw the frozen petit fours at room temperature for about an hour before serving. This way, they’ll taste just as delightful as when freshly made!

Brownie Petit Fours Variations

Feel free to personalize your Brownie Petit Fours for an even sweeter experience.

Milk Chocolate: Swap semisweet chocolate for milk chocolate in the ganache for an even sweeter treat.
Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or almonds to the brownie batter for a satisfying crunch. They add texture and a delightful surprise.
Flavorful Ganache: Experiment with different ganache flavors like white chocolate or caramel for a unique twist. A hint of mint or raspberry extract could also elevate the experience.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or espresso powder into the brownie mixture for a surprising flavor boost that complements the chocolate.
Fruit Infusion: Top your petit fours with fresh raspberries or strawberries for a fresh fruity contrast to the rich ganache.
Dusted Cocoa: Instead of fleur de sel, dust the tops with unsweetened cocoa powder for an elegant touch and a deep chocolate flavor.
Lavender Touch: Mix in a teaspoon of dried culinary lavender to the ganache for a floral note that’s simply delightful.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make these petit fours accessible to gluten-sensitive friends or family.

With these variations, your Brownie Petit Fours will be personalized treasures that everyone will adore!

Expert Tips for Brownie Petit Fours

Cool Completely: Ensure brownies are completely cool before cutting; this prevents them from crumbling and maintains their elegant shape.
Moist Crumbs Test: Remember, brownies are done when a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter; this guarantees that fudgy texture we love!
Ganache Ahead: You can make the ganache in advance and keep it refrigerated. Just reheat slightly before dipping the brownies for easy assembly.
Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Using different ganache flavors or adding toppings can elevate your Brownie Petit Fours and impress your guests.
Proper Storage: Store your petit fours in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their texture and flavor for several days.

Make Ahead Options

These Brownie Petit Fours are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy them fresh without the stress! You can prepare the brownie base up to 3 days in advance by baking it, cooling it completely, and storing it in an airtight container at room temperature. The ganache can be made in advance as well; simply refrigerate it for up to 5 days. When you’re ready to assemble, let the ganache come to room temperature, then cut the brownies and dip them in the ganache for that fresh finish. This prep strategy not only saves you time but ensures your petit fours remain just as delicious when you’re ready to serve them!

What to Serve with Brownie Petit Fours?

Picture delight in every bite as your guests indulge in these elegant, bite-sized desserts that transform any occasion into a celebration.

Espresso or Coffee: The rich, bold flavors of espresso complement the chocolate beautifully, enhancing the overall experience. A warm cup adds a cozy touch to your dessert table.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream creates a perfect contrast with the fudgy brownies, providing a delightful temperature and texture variation.
Fresh Berries: Bright and tangy fruits like raspberries or strawberries add a refreshing bite, balancing the sweetness of the brownies with a touch of natural acidity.
Dessert Wine: Pair with a luscious dessert wine such as Port or a sweet Riesling for a sophisticated pairing that enhances the richness of the petit fours.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream softens the richness of the brownies, making the entire dessert feel more luxurious and indulgent.
Cheesecake Bites: Serve mini cheesecake bites alongside for an elegant duo—a creamy, tangy twist to contrast the deep chocolate flavor of the petit fours.
Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These treats mirror the chocolate theme while introducing a crunchy texture, creating a cohesive and tantalizing dessert experience.
Mint Tea: For a refreshing non-sweet option, serve mint tea. Its herbal notes cleanse the palate, preparing guests for another indulgent bite!
Mini Tarts: Offer assorted fruit tarts to provide a delightful visual variety on the dessert table, enhancing the experience without overpowering the richness of the brownies.
Salted Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of homemade salted caramel adds a luscious, sweet-salty element that beautifully complements the flavors of the Brownie Petit Fours.

Brownie Petit Fours Recipe FAQs

What type of chocolate should I use for the Brownie Petit Fours?
Absolutely! I recommend semisweet chocolate for a rich flavor, but feel free to substitute milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter taste. High-quality chocolate makes a significant difference in your final product, elevating the fudginess and overall indulgence.

How should I store my Brownie Petit Fours?
To keep your Brownie Petit Fours fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like them to last a little longer, refrigerate them for up to a week, allowing them to get to room temperature before serving to enjoy their delightful fudgy texture.

Can I freeze the Brownie Petit Fours?
Certainly! For freezing, place the petit fours on a baking sheet in a single layer until they are firm. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag, where they can last for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature for about an hour before serving for the best flavor and texture.

What if my brownies crumble when cutting?
Very common! To avoid crumbling, ensure that your brownies are completely cool before cutting. After baking, allow them to cool in the pan on a wire rack. If they still crumble, try using a sharp knife and applying gentle pressure while cutting into smaller squares to maintain their shape.

Are there any dietary considerations for the Brownie Petit Fours?
If you have dietary restrictions, you can easily make these petit fours gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Also, to cater to different allergies, keep in mind that the recipe contains eggs and dairy. For a vegan alternative, experiment with egg substitutes and plant-based butter and cream in the recipe.

How can I add more flavor to the ganache?
For a unique twist, consider adding a flavor extract like peppermint or almond to your ganache for a delightful surprise! Simply stir in a teaspoon after melting the cream and chocolate together. You can also mix in a splash of liqueur for an adult version, enhancing the decadence of your Brownie Petit Fours.