Brownie Petit Fours

Make brownie petit fours with chocolate ganache in two ways! These delightful mini desserts are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday gathering, a birthday celebration, or simply a treat to enjoy at home. Their rich chocolate flavor combined with elegant presentation makes them a standout choice for dessert lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have these tasty treats ready in no time.
• Decadent Flavor: Rich semisweet chocolate and buttery goodness create a heavenly taste that everyone will adore.
• Versatile Presentation: Brownie petit fours can be dressed up with ganache or served plain, making them suitable for any event.
• Perfectly Portion-Controlled: These mini desserts are just the right size for satisfying your sweet tooth without overindulging.
• Impressive Treats: Serve them at gatherings to wow your guests with homemade elegance and sophistication.

Tools and Preparation

To make your brownie petit fours successfully, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment on hand can simplify the process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×9 inch baking pan: This size is perfect for achieving the right thickness in your brownie layers, ensuring they bake evenly.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls allows you to prepare different components without mixing flavors unintentionally.
• Whisk: A whisk helps incorporate air into your batter, creating a light and fluffy texture for the brownies.

Ingredients

Make brownie petit fours with chocolate ganache in two ways!

Ingredients:

For the Brownies

• 4 ounces (about ¾ cup of chips) semisweet chocolate, chopped
• ¾ cup (12 T or 165 gm) unsalted butter
• ¾ cup (150 gm) sugar
• ½ cup (100 gm) light brown sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1-1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup (140 gm) all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup (65 gm) cocoa powder
• ¾ teaspoon salt

For the Ganache Topping

• 6 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped or in morsels
• ¾ 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). Prepare your 9×9 inch baking pan by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Melt Chocolate and Butter

In a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl, combine the semisweet chocolate chips and unsalted butter.
1. Heat gently until melted, stirring occasionally.
2. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix Sugars and Eggs

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted chocolate mixture with both types of sugar until smooth.
1. Add in the large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
2. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined.

Step 5: Bake the Brownies

Pour the brownie batter into your prepared baking pan.
1. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
2. Let cool completely before cutting into petit four-sized pieces.

Step 6: Prepare Chocolate Ganache

While brownies are cooling, make the ganache.
1. In a saucepan, heat the heavy whipping cream until just simmering.
2. Pour over the chopped semisweet chocolate, let sit for a few minutes, then stir until smooth.

Step 7: Assemble Petit Fours

Once brownies are cooled and cut into squares:
1. Dip each square into chocolate ganache or drizzle it on top.
2. Sprinkle with Fleur de sel for an elegant finish.

Enjoy your delightful brownie petit fours!

How to Serve Brownie Petit Fours

Brownie petit fours are not just delightful treats; they can also be an elegant addition to any gathering. Here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your dessert experience.

For Tea Parties

• Accompaniment with Tea: Pair your brownie petit fours with a selection of herbal or black teas for a refined afternoon tea experience.
• Elegant Platters: Arrange the petit fours on fine china or decorative platters for a sophisticated touch.

At Formal Gatherings

• Garnished with Fruits: Serve alongside fresh berries or citrus slices to add a burst of color and flavor contrast.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Enhance presentation by drizzling extra chocolate ganache over the brownies before serving.

As Party Favors

• Individually Wrapped: Wrap each brownie petit four in decorative cellophane for guests to take home as sweet party favors.
• Decorative Boxes: Present them in small boxes tied with ribbons for an added touch of elegance.

During Celebrations

• Layered Dessert Displays: Create a dessert table featuring brownie petit fours among other mini desserts for a stunning visual impact.
• With Ice Cream: Offer brownie petit fours alongside scoops of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.

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How to Perfect Brownie Petit Fours

To ensure your brownie petit fours turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Boldly choose quality chocolate: Use high-quality semisweet chocolate for the best flavor and texture in your brownies.
• Boldly measure ingredients accurately: Precision in measuring ensures consistent results, so use a kitchen scale when possible.
• Boldly chill before cutting: Allow the brownies to cool completely and chill in the refrigerator before cutting them into petit four shapes for cleaner edges.
• Boldly experiment with flavors: Try adding extracts like almond or peppermint for unique flavor variations in your brownie batter.

Best Side Dishes for Brownie Petit Fours

Pairing side dishes with brownie petit fours can create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some delightful options.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds creaminess to the rich chocolaty flavor.
2. Fresh Berries: Strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries provide a refreshing tartness that balances sweetness.
3. Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream can enhance the overall texture while adding lightness to each bite.
4. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over the brownies for an indulgent touch.
5. Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of caramel can complement the chocolate flavors beautifully and add richness.
6. Espresso Shots: Serve espresso on the side to enhance the chocolate taste and provide a caffeine kick.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Brownie Petit Fours can be a rewarding experience, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the ganache: Ganache adds moisture and richness. Always make it for a perfect finish.
• Overbaking the brownies: Overbaked brownies become dry. Check them a few minutes before the suggested time.
• Not cooling properly: Allowing brownies to cool completely prevents sogginess. Be patient before cutting.
• Using the wrong chocolate: Ensure you use high-quality chocolate for better flavor. Don’t substitute with sweetened chocolate chips.
• Ignoring measurements: Accurate measurements are crucial for success. Use a kitchen scale for precision.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Brownie Petit Fours in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 5 days in the fridge.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Brownie Petit Fours

• Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap.
• Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating Brownie Petit Fours

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on low power for 15-20 seconds; check frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Use a non-stick pan on low heat, cover to retain moisture while warming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Brownie Petit Fours that may help you.

Can I use dark chocolate instead of semisweet?

Yes, dark chocolate will give a richer flavor, but adjust sugar if desired.

How do I add flavors to my brownie petit fours?

You can incorporate extracts like almond or orange zest for unique flavors.

What can I substitute for heavy cream in the ganache?

Coconut cream or full-fat evaporated milk can work as alternatives.

Can I make these brownie petit fours gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free flour blends instead of all-purpose flour.

Final Thoughts

These Brownie Petit Fours are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with various toppings or fillings, making them perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe and impress your guests with these delightful mini desserts!