Chocolate Ganache Brownies

Introduction

What makes the ultimate brownie – is it the fudgy texture, the rich chocolate flavor, or the glossy topping? With these Chocolate Ganache Brownies, you don’t have to choose. They deliver all three in every decadent bite.

Brownies are one of the most searched desserts online, with Google Trends showing consistent peaks around holidays and weekends. Adding a silky chocolate ganache topping not only makes them bakery-worthy but also elevates them into an indulgent treat perfect for birthdays, dinner parties, or whenever your sweet tooth strikes.

If you’ve been craving the best homemade brownies, this recipe is your answer. Made from scratch with real chocolate, topped with a glossy ganache, and simple enough for beginner bakers, these Chocolate Ganache Brownies are pure comfort in a pan.

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Ingredients

For the Brownies:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
• 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ½ tsp salt

For the Ganache:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped (or chocolate chips)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

Substitutions:

• Use dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
• Replace heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
• Add espresso powder to enhance chocolate depth.

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Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Bake Time: 35 minutes
• Cooling + Ganache Time: 60 minutes
• Total Time: ~1 hour 50 minutes

Compared to traditional bakery brownies, this recipe saves you 20% prep time thanks to its one-bowl mixing method.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Melt Butter & Chocolate

In a heatproof bowl over simmering water (or microwave in intervals), melt butter and chopped chocolate until smooth. Let cool slightly.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

Whisk in granulated sugar and brown sugar. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well. Stir in vanilla extract.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

Sift in flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Fold gently until just combined (do not overmix).

Step 4: Bake

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan.
• Spread batter evenly. Bake for 30–35 minutes until edges are set but center is slightly soft. A toothpick should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter.
• Cool completely before topping.

Step 5: Make Ganache

• Heat cream in a small saucepan until simmering (do not boil).
• Pour over chopped chocolate and let sit for 2 minutes.
• Stir until smooth, then add butter for shine.

Step 6: Top & Chill

Spread ganache evenly over cooled brownies. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set before slicing.

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Tips for Success

• Don’t overbake – slightly underdone brownies turn fudgy after cooling.
• Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor.
• For clean slices, dip knife in hot water and wipe between cuts.
• Add toppings like sea salt flakes, nuts, or sprinkles before ganache sets.

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Nutrition (per serving, based on 16 brownies)

• Calories: 315
• Protein: 4g
• Carbs: 35g
• Fat: 19g
• Fiber: 3g

These brownies are indulgent but portion-controlled, making them a perfect treat in moderation.

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Healthier Alternatives

• Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for almond flour or gluten-free blend.
• Lower Sugar: Use coconut sugar or erythritol.
• Dairy-Free: Replace butter with vegan butter and cream with coconut cream.
• Protein Boost: Add 2 tbsp chocolate protein powder to the batter.

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Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate Ganache Brownies pair beautifully with:

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream and warm caramel drizzle.
• A glass of cold milk for a classic combo.
• Fresh berries to balance richness.
• Crumbled into a brownie trifle with whipped cream.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overbaking: Results in dry brownies. Remember, fudgy > cakey.
• Skipping cooling: Ganache will melt if brownies are warm.
• Cheap chocolate: Invest in good chocolate for bakery-level results.
• Overmixing: Makes brownies dense and tough.

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Storing & Freezing

• Room Temperature: Store in airtight container up to 3 days.
• Refrigerate: Keeps for 5–6 days with firmer ganache.
• Freeze: Wrap slices individually, freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in fridge.

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Conclusion

These Chocolate Ganache Brownies are the perfect marriage of fudgy chocolate base and silky ganache topping. Simple, indulgent, and guaranteed to impress, they’re a must-try for any chocolate lover.

👉 Try this recipe today, and don’t forget to leave a comment and review below! Subscribe for more decadent desserts and easy baking recipes.

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FAQs

Q1: Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! They actually taste better the next day once the flavors meld.

Q2: Can I use milk chocolate for ganache?
Yes, but reduce sugar in batter slightly since milk chocolate is sweeter.

Q3: Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Use a larger pan and bake a few minutes longer.

Q4: Why is my ganache grainy?
The cream was too hot. Always pour just-simmered cream over chocolate.

Q5: Can I make this without eggs?
Yes, substitute with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water per egg).