Description
French Silk Brownies are a decadent dessert combining rich, fudgy brownies topped with a smooth, creamy chocolate silk layer. This recipe features a simple brownie base baked to perfection and a luscious chocolate ganache-style topping that sets to a silky finish, making it an elegant and indulgent treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Brownie Base
- 1 box brownie mix (or homemade brownie mix)
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup water
Chocolate Silk Topping
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 6 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make removal easier.
- Mix and Bake Brownies: Prepare the brownie batter according to the package instructions or your homemade recipe by combining the brownie mix with eggs, vegetable oil, and water. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes until set and a toothpick comes out mostly clean.
- Cool Brownies: Remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan to ensure the topping adheres properly and does not melt.
- Heat Heavy Cream: Pour the heavy cream into a saucepan and heat it gently until it just begins to simmer, not boil, to prepare for melting the chocolate chips.
- Melt Chocolate: Pour the hot cream over the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a bowl and stir continuously until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Add Butter and Vanilla: Stir the butter and vanilla extract into the chocolate mixture until fully incorporated and the ganache is silky. Then, allow it to cool slightly to thicken.
- Spread Topping: Evenly spread the cooled chocolate silk mixture over the completely cooled brownie base for a smooth finish.
- Refrigerate to Set: Place the layered brownies in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, allowing the chocolate layer to set firmly and develop its signature silk texture.
- Serve: Before serving, dust the surface with powdered sugar for a delicate, elegant touch.
Notes
- Ensure the brownies are fully cooled before adding the chocolate silk topping to prevent melting and sliding.
- You can substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark or milk chocolate for different flavor variations.
- For a richer ganache, you may use higher-fat cream or add a tablespoon of corn syrup for extra shine.
- Store the brownies refrigerated and enjoy within 3-4 days for the best texture and flavor.
- Allow the ganache to come to room temperature before slicing to avoid cracking.
