Brownie Petit Fours

Make Brownie Petit Fours with chocolate ganache in two delightful ways! These bite-sized treats are perfect for any occasion, from elegant parties to cozy family gatherings. Their rich chocolate flavor, combined with a smooth ganache finish, makes them a standout dessert. Plus, their petite size makes them easy to serve and enjoy without overwhelming your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Decadent: The combination of brownies and ganache creates a rich, indulgent treat that satisfies any chocolate craving.
• Versatile Serving Options: Whether it’s a birthday party or a holiday dessert table, these petit fours fit perfectly into any celebration.
• Easy to Customize: You can add toppings or different fillings to suit your personal taste or the theme of your event.
• Impressive Presentation: These mini desserts look stunning on any platter, making them a great choice for fancy occasions.
• Quick Preparation: With just an hour from start to finish, you can whip up these delightful treats without spending all day in the kitchen.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking process. Having everything ready will make preparing your brownie petit fours even easier.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×9-inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×9-inch baking pan: This size is perfect for baking brownies evenly, allowing for consistent texture and height.
• Mixing bowls: Multiple bowls help keep ingredients organized during preparation.
• Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl: Essential for melting chocolate smoothly without burning it.

Ingredients

Make brownie petit fours with chocolate ganache in two ways!

Ingredients:
– 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
– 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). This step ensures that your brownies bake evenly and achieve the perfect texture.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate and Butter

In a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl, combine the semisweet chocolate and unsalted butter.
Heat gently until both are melted and smooth.
Stir occasionally to avoid burning.

Step 3: Mix the Sugars and Eggs

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted chocolate mixture with the sugar, light brown sugar, and eggs.
Add the vanilla extract.
Mix until well combined and smooth.

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.
Mix just until combined; do not overmix.

Step 5: Bake the Brownies

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.
Spread it evenly with a spatula.
Bake for about 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs.

Step 6: Prepare Ganache

While brownies cool, prepare the ganache:
In another saucepan, heat the heavy whipping cream.
Pour it over the remaining chopped semisweet chocolate.
Let it sit for a minute before stirring until smooth.

Step 7: Assemble Petit Fours

Once cooled, cut brownies into small squares.
Dip each square into the ganache or pour it over them.
Allow excess ganache to drip off before placing on parchment paper.

Step 8: Add Finishing Touches

Sprinkle each petit four with a touch of Fleur de sel.
Let set before serving. Enjoy your delicious brownie petit fours!

How to Serve Brownie Petit Fours

Brownie petit fours are delightful mini desserts that can be served in various creative ways. These charming treats are perfect for gatherings, parties, or simply to indulge yourself.

Individual Servings

• Serve each brownie petit four on a small decorative plate for an elegant touch.
• Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast in flavors and textures.

Platter Display

• Arrange the petit fours on a beautiful serving platter for a stunning centerpiece at your dessert table.
• Garnish the platter with fresh berries or mint leaves to add color and freshness.

Gift Boxes

• Package brownie petit fours in cute boxes to create thoughtful gifts for friends and family.
• Include a personalized note or tag to make the gift extra special.

Coffee Pairing

• Serve brownie petit fours alongside espresso or coffee to enhance the chocolate flavor.
• Offer different types of coffee, such as cappuccino or cold brew, to cater to guests’ preferences.

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How to Perfect Brownie Petit Fours

To create the best brownie petit fours, follow these expert tips.

• Choose Quality Chocolate: Use high-quality semisweet chocolate for a richer taste.
• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Precision is key; weigh your ingredients for consistent results.
• Cool Completely Before Cutting: Let the brownies cool fully to avoid crumbling when cutting into petit fours.
• Use a Sharp Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts, giving your petit fours a neat appearance.
• Decorate Creatively: Enhance with colorful sprinkles or edible flowers for visual appeal.
• Experiment with Flavors: Try adding spices like cinnamon or peppermint extract for unique variations.

Best Side Dishes for Brownie Petit Fours

Brownie petit fours can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their sweetness and richness. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the chocolate’s richness.
2. Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy whipped cream makes an excellent topping for added indulgence.
3. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over the brownie petit fours for extra decadence.
4. Ice Cream Sundae Bar: Set up a sundae station where guests can top their brownies with ice cream and toppings.
5. Coffee or Tea: A cup of coffee or tea pairs beautifully, enhancing the dessert experience.
6. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses complements the cocoa flavors and adds variety.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Brownie Petit Fours can be a delightful experience, but certain mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can lead to dense brownie petit fours. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a lighter texture.
• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can cause uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven and check with an oven thermometer for accuracy.
• Skipping the Ganache Step: Ganache adds flavor and moisture. Don’t skip this step; it elevates your brownie petit fours to new heights.
• Not Greasing the Pan Properly: A greased pan ensures easy removal of your brownies. Use parchment paper or grease well to avoid sticking.
• Using Old Ingredients: Stale ingredients can ruin your dessert. Always use fresh eggs, butter, and chocolate for the best results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store brownie petit fours in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Brownie Petit Fours

• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Brownie Petit Fours

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on low power for 10-15 seconds for a warm treat.
• Stovetop: Use a non-stick pan on low heat, cover, and warm for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Brownie Petit Fours.

Can I make brownie petit fours without eggs?

Yes, you can substitute eggs with applesauce or flaxseed meal for a vegan version.

How do I customize my brownie petit fours?

Feel free to add nuts, dried fruit, or even flavored extracts like peppermint for a personal touch!

What should I serve with brownie petit fours?

They pair wonderfully with coffee, tea, or even a scoop of ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.

How do I make my ganache smooth?

Make sure to chop chocolate finely and combine it with warmed heavy cream gently. Stir until fully melted and combined.

Final Thoughts

Brownie petit fours are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them to suit any occasion or taste preference. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them as a cozy treat at home, these mini delights are sure to impress! Try making them today and enjoy their rich flavors!