There’s an undeniable joy that comes from crafting elegant desserts, especially when they’re as delightful as Brownie Petit Fours. Picture this: a sweet, rich fragrance fills your kitchen, the kind that beckons loved ones to gather near, hungry for a taste of your latest creation. These petite treats artfully blend the gooey goodness of traditional brownies with a silky ganache, creating an indulgence that’s as beautiful to the eye as it is satisfying to the palate.
I first stumbled upon this recipe during a lively dinner party, where the thrill of impressing friends led me to combine classic flavors with a fancy presentation. The result? A bite-sized dessert that sings with a balance of sweetness and a hint of salt from fleur de sel, making it perfect for any occasion—from casual get-togethers to grand celebrations.
Whether you’re looking to wow your guests or simply satisfy a sweet craving, these Brownie Petit Fours are an elegant solution that won’t just fill your plate, but also warm your heart.
Why are Brownie Petit Fours a must-try?
Indulgence at Its Finest: These Brownie Petit Fours are a delightful blend of rich chocolate and smooth ganache, creating an elegant dessert that’s perfect for impressing guests.
Versatile Treat: Whether you’re serving them at a fancy dinner party or enjoying them during a cozy night in, these petite delights suit any occasion.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip these up effortlessly.
Gluten-Free Option Available: Adapt the recipe for your dietary needs by swapping for gluten-free flour, making it inclusive for everyone.
Crowd-Pleasing: The balance of sweet and savory flavors, accented by fleur de sel, ensures these treats will be a hit with family and friends.
Elevate your dessert game with these stunning Brownie Petit Fours that promise to be both eye-catching and delicious!
Brownie Petit Fours Ingredients
For the Brownies
• Semisweet Chocolate (4 oz) – Provides rich chocolate flavor; substitute with dark chocolate for a more intense taste.
• Unsalted Butter (¾ cup) – Adds moisture and richness; use coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
• Granulated Sugar (¾ cup) – Sweetens the brownies and helps with structure; can be replaced with coconut sugar for a healthier alternative.
• Light Brown Sugar (½ cup) – Adds a hint of molasses flavor and moisture retention; substitute with more granulated sugar as needed.
• Large Eggs (3) – Binds ingredients together and aids in leavening; aquafaba can be used as an egg replacement for a vegan option.
• Vanilla Extract (1½ teaspoons) – Enhances flavor profile; use fresh vanilla bean for a stronger essence.
• All-Purpose Flour (1 cup) – Provides structure; can be swapped for a gluten-free flour blend.
• Cocoa Powder (¾ cup) – Deepens the chocolate flavor; use Dutch-processed cocoa for a richer taste.
• Salt (¾ teaspoon) – Enhances sweetness and balances flavors; leave out if concerned about sodium intake.
For the Ganache
• Semisweet Chocolate (ganache, 6 oz) – Used for coating and adds a glossy finish; dark chocolate can be used for a more sophisticated flavor.
• Heavy Whipping Cream (¾ cup) – Helps create a silky ganache; substitute with coconut cream for a non-dairy version.
For the Finishing Touch
• Fleur de Sel – Provides a sophisticated touch and enhances flavor; optional but recommended for an elevated taste.
Dive into these Brownie Petit Fours and let them be the star of your next gathering!
How to Make Brownie Petit Fours
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8×8-inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal later.
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Melt semisweet chocolate and butter together in a heatproof bowl over simmering water, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
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Whisk in the granulated and brown sugars into the chocolate mixture until well combined. Then, add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
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Stir in the vanilla extract, ensuring the mixture is well-blended and aromatic.
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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, ensuring not to over-mix.
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Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 20-25 minutes, checking for moist crumbs with a toothpick inserted into the center.
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Cool the brownies completely in the pan, then lift them out using the parchment paper and cut them into small squares.
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Prepare the ganache: Heat heavy whipping cream in a saucepan until it simmers. Pour over the chopped ganache chocolate, let sit for a few minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.
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Coat each brownie square with the silky ganache, ensuring they’re well-covered. Allow the chocolate to set for a few minutes before sprinkling with fleur de sel for that extra touch of elegance.
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Serve these beautiful Brownie Petit Fours on a lovely platter. Enjoy their rich flavors and sophisticated appeal!
Optional: Serve with a side of fresh berries for a burst of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Brownie Petit Fours
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Cool Completely: Allow brownies to cool fully before cutting them. This prevents tearing and ensures clean edges for your petit fours.
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Whisk Well: Whisk your eggs until they are pale yellow and frothy. This helps create a light, airy texture in your Brownie Petit Fours.
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Chocolate Choices: If you opt to use a different type of chocolate for the ganache, adjust the sugar levels accordingly for balanced sweetness.
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Substitutions: For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Just ensure it’s a 1:1 replacement for the best results.
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Setting Ganache: Give the ganache a bit of time to cool before coating the brownies. A cooler ganache clings better, resulting in a beautiful finish.
How to Store and Freeze Brownie Petit Fours
Room Temperature: Store Brownie Petit Fours in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their fudgy texture.
Fridge: If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate for up to a week. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
Freezer: For extended storage, freeze Brownie Petit Fours in a single layer, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.
Reheating: If desired, warm individual pieces in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, just enough to soften the ganache without melting it completely. Enjoy!
What to Serve with Brownie Petit Fours?
Explore the perfect additions to elevate your dessert experience beyond the delightful Brownie Petit Fours!
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Fresh Berries: A mix of strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries adds a tart contrast that brightens the rich chocolate flavors. Their juicy burst will rejuvenate your palate between bites.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream provides a creamy counterpart to the dense brownies. Consider flavoring it with vanilla or a touch of almond for an extra flavor layer.
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Coffee: A well-crafted espresso or a bold cup of coffee pairs beautifully with these chocolatetreats, balancing their sweetness while enriching the overall experience. It’s the perfect excuse to slow down and savor both.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream is the ultimate pairing with warm, fudgy brownies. The melty ice cream creates a delightful contrast and enhances the rich chocolate without overpowering it.
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Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle on extra chocolate sauce for those who crave an even richer experience. This indulgence deepens the chocolate experience for true chocoholics, making each bite an event.
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Mint Leaves: Fresh mint leaves as a garnish provide a refreshing touch, brightening each bite. They add a vibrant visual appeal and a refreshing aroma that elevates the presentation.
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Pour Over Sweet Wine: A light, sparkling sweet wine can complement the rich, chocolatey notes of the brownies while adding a touch of elegance to any gathering. It’s an inviting choice for dessert pairing.
Elevate your dessert experience by thoughtfully pairing these delightful options with your Brownie Petit Fours!
Brownie Petit Fours Variations
Feel free to jazz up these delightful treats with your unique twists and flavors!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a scrumptious option everyone can enjoy. It keeps the rich texture intact while accommodating dietary needs.
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Nutty Delight: Mix in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for an added crunch. Their earthy flavor beautifully contrasts the rich chocolate and adds depth to each bite.
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Caramel Ganache: Swap the semisweet chocolate ganache for a luscious caramel sauce for a sweeter, buttery taste. This variation offers a new dimension and delightful sweetness that your guests will adore.
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Mint Infusion: Stir in peppermint extract to the brownie batter or ganache for a refreshing twist. The minty allure complements the chocolate superbly, giving holiday vibes all year round.
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil and coconut cream in place of butter and heavy cream, creating a dairy-free version that remains indulgently creamy and rich.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the brownie batter for a delightful heat that will surprise and excite your taste buds.
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Zesty Lemon: Grate some lemon zest into the ganache for a citrusy brightness. The zesty notes lift the chocolate flavor, making it feel light and refreshing.
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Dark Chocolate Dreams: Opt for dark chocolate ganache for a more sophisticated flavor profile. The deeper, richer chocolate will please those who appreciate a more intense chocolate experience.
Let your creativity shine while making these Brownie Petit Fours uniquely yours!
Make Ahead Options
These Brownie Petit Fours are ideal for meal prep, offering a delightful sweet treat with minimal fuss! You can prepare the brownies up to 24 hours in advance; simply bake and allow them to cool completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap to maintain their moistness. If you’d like, you can also make the ganache one day ahead; just store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container until you’re ready to use it. When ready to serve, reheat the ganache gently in the microwave or over a double boiler until smooth, then coat the brownie squares and sprinkle with fleur de sel. This way, you’ll enjoy fresh, luxurious Brownie Petit Fours with the convenience of advance preparation, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions!
Brownie Petit Fours Recipe FAQs
What type of chocolate should I use for my Brownie Petit Fours?
Absolutely! Using semisweet chocolate is ideal for achieving that rich chocolate flavor. If you prefer a more intense taste, dark chocolate makes a great substitute. For a sweeter ganache, you can even use white chocolate, which adds a lovely contrast.
How do I ensure my brownies are the right texture?
Very importantly, allow your brownies to cool completely before cutting. This ensures clean cuts and helps maintain the fudgy texture you desire. Also, keep an eye on the baking time; ideally, you’ll want moist crumbs when testing with a toothpick – bake until it’s just set, about 20-25 minutes.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store your Brownie Petit Fours in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them deliciously fudgy. If you prefer them firmer, refrigerate for up to a week. Just remember to bring them back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor!
Can I freeze the Brownie Petit Fours?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the Brownie Petit Fours in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid. Then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight – they’ll be just as delightful!
What dietary adjustments can I make with this recipe?
If you have dietary restrictions, you can easily adapt this recipe. For a gluten-free version, swap all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Additionally, to make the brownies vegan, replace eggs with aquafaba and use coconut cream for the ganache. These adjustments ensure everyone can partake in this delicious treat!
Are there common mistakes to avoid when making Brownie Petit Fours?
Yes, one common mistake is overmixing the batter, which can lead to a denser texture. Be gentle when folding in the dry ingredients to keep your Brownie Petit Fours light and fudgy. Also, ensure that your baking pan is well-prepared with parchment paper for easy removal – cleaning can be a hassle otherwise!
Decadent Brownie Petit Fours with Silky Ganache Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8×8-inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal later.
- Melt semisweet chocolate and butter together in a heatproof bowl over simmering water, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Whisk in the granulated and brown sugars into the chocolate mixture until well combined. Then, add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract, ensuring the mixture is well-blended and aromatic.
- 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.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 20-25 minutes, checking for moist crumbs with a toothpick inserted into the center.
- Cool the brownies completely in the pan, then lift them out using the parchment paper and cut them into small squares.
- Prepare the ganache: Heat heavy whipping cream in a saucepan until it simmers. Pour over the chopped ganache chocolate, let sit for a few minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.
- Coat each brownie square with the silky ganache, ensuring they're well-covered. Allow the chocolate to set for a few minutes before sprinkling with fleur de sel.
- Serve these beautiful Brownie Petit Fours on a lovely platter. Enjoy their rich flavors and sophisticated appeal!
