Brownie Petit Fours

Make brownie petit fours with chocolate ganache in two ways! These delightful mini desserts are perfect for any occasion, from birthday parties to holiday gatherings. Their rich chocolate flavor and elegant presentation make them a standout treat that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these brownie petit fours in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as a dessert for dinner parties, weddings, or just a sweet treat at home.
• Decadent Flavor: The combination of rich chocolate and smooth ganache elevates the traditional brownie to a fancy dessert experience.
• Impressive Presentation: These mini desserts look stunning on any dessert table, making them ideal for celebrations.
• Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite toppings or sprinkle with fleur de sel for an extra touch of elegance.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth baking process. Having the right equipment will help you achieve the best results with your brownie petit fours.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×9-inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Baking spatula
• Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×9-inch baking pan: This size is ideal for creating thick brownies that can be cut into perfect petit fours.
• Mixing bowls: Use multiple sizes to keep your ingredients organized during preparation.
• Double boiler: Ensures gentle melting of chocolate for the ganache without burning it.

Ingredients

Make brownie petit fours with chocolate ganache in two ways!

Ingredients:
– 4 ounces (about 3/4 cup of chips) semisweet chocolate, chopped
– 3/4 cup (12 T or 165 gm) unsalted butter
– 3/4 cup (150 gm) sugar
– 1/2 cup (100 gm) light brown sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1-1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup (140 gm) all-purpose flour
– 3/4 cup (65 gm) cocoa powder
– 3/4 teaspoon salt
– 6 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped or in morsels
– 3/4 cup (6 ounces) heavy whipping cream
– Fleur de sel, for sprinkling

Instructions:

Servings: Depends on Size of Brownies
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Course: Brownies

How to Make Brownie Petit Fours

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking for your brownie base.

Step 2: Prepare Your Pan

Grease the 9×9-inch baking pan with butter or line it with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes removing the brownies easier.

Step 3: Melt Chocolate and Butter

In a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl, combine the semisweet chocolate and unsalted butter.
Heat gently until melted, stirring frequently.
Allow it to cool slightly before mixing in other ingredients.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt. This step ensures even distribution of dry ingredients throughout the batter.

Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another mixing bowl, beat together sugar, light brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Gradually stir in the melted chocolate mixture until smooth.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix; this keeps your brownies soft and fudgy.

Step 7: Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Cut

Remove from oven and let cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, cut into small squares or rectangles to form your petit fours.

Step 9: Make Ganache

To prepare ganache, heat heavy whipping cream until just boiling. Pour over chopped semisweet chocolate in a bowl.
Let sit for a few minutes before stirring until smooth.
Allow ganache to cool slightly before drizzling over your brownie pieces.

Step 10: Serve

Drizzle ganache over cut brownies and sprinkle with fleur de sel before serving. Enjoy these exquisite brownie petit fours at your next gathering!

How to Serve Brownie Petit Fours

Brownie petit fours are delightful mini desserts that can be served in various ways. They are perfect for parties, celebrations, or even as a sweet treat after dinner. Here are some serving suggestions to make your brownie petit fours shine.

Elegant Platter Display

• Arrange the brownie petit fours on a beautiful platter for an eye-catching centerpiece at any gathering.

Individual Boxes or Bags

• Place each brownie petit four in small decorative boxes or bags for easy take-home treats for guests.

Accompanied by Fresh Berries

• Serve brownie petit fours with a side of fresh berries for a pop of color and refreshing contrast.

Dusted with Powdered Sugar

• Lightly dust the tops of your brownie petit fours with powdered sugar for an elegant touch.

With a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Pair each brownie petit four with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful temperature contrast.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• Add an extra layer of flavor by drizzling warm caramel sauce over the brownie petit fours before serving.

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How to Perfect Brownie Petit Fours

Creating perfect brownie petit fours requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your baking game.

• Use Quality Chocolate: Opt for high-quality semisweet chocolate to enhance the flavor of your brownies.
• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Accurate measurements ensure consistent texture and taste in your brownies.
• Cool Completely Before Cutting: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into petite squares to avoid crumbling.
• Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate your brownie petit fours for at least an hour after assembly. This helps set the ganache and makes them easier to cut.
• Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to add flavors like espresso or mint extract to the brownie batter for unique variations.

Best Side Dishes for Brownie Petit Fours

Serving side dishes alongside brownie petit fours can enhance the dessert experience. Here are some excellent pairings:

1. Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream complements the rich chocolate perfectly.
2. Chocolate Sauce: Rich chocolate sauce adds decadence and can be drizzled on top or served on the side.
3. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad offers a refreshing balance between sweetness and acidity.
4. Vanilla Yogurt: Creamy vanilla yogurt provides a tangy contrast that pairs well with rich brownies.
5. Cheese Plate: A selection of cheeses, especially creamy ones, makes an interesting savory counterpart.
6. Tea or Coffee: Serve with hot tea or coffee to balance sweetness and enhance flavors during dessert time.
7. Pecan Pie Bites: Mini pecan pies add another layer of flavor while keeping desserts fun-sized.
8. Nut Brittle: Crunchy nut brittle offers textural contrast and complements the softness of the brownies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Brownie Petit Fours can be a delight, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Incorrect Measurements: Using the wrong amount of ingredients can ruin your brownies. Always measure carefully, especially when it comes to flour and sugar.
• Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can lead to dense brownies. Mix until just combined for a lighter texture.
• Not Letting Them Cool: Cutting brownies while they’re still warm can result in a messy presentation. Allow them to cool completely before slicing.
• Skipping the Ganache: The chocolate ganache adds richness that enhances the brownies. Don’t skip this step; it’s essential for flavor!
• Ignoring Storage Tips: Improper storage can dry out your brownies. Follow the storage instructions closely to keep them fresh.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to maintain moisture.
• Brownie petit fours can last up to one week in the fridge.

Freezing Brownie Petit Fours

• Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container.
• They will stay fresh for up to three months when frozen.

Reheating Brownie Petit Fours

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes for a fresh taste.
• Microwave: Heat one brownie at a time for about 10-15 seconds for a quick treat.
• Stovetop: Place on low heat in a pan, cover with a lid, and warm gently for several minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Brownie Petit Fours?

Brownie petit fours are small, elegant brownie squares typically topped with chocolate ganache, perfect for any occasion.

How do I make the best Brownie Petit Fours?

To make the best brownie petit fours, ensure you use high-quality chocolate and follow the recipe accurately for the best results.

Can I customize my Brownie Petit Fours?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, flavored extracts, or different types of chocolate to personalize your brownie petit fours.

How long do Brownie Petit Fours last?

When stored properly, brownie petit fours can last up to one week in the refrigerator and three months if frozen.

Final Thoughts

These Brownie Petit Fours are not only delicious but also versatile. Perfect for gatherings or as a special treat at home, they can be customized to suit any palate. Try making these delightful mini desserts today!