Stepping into the kitchen, I often find inspiration in the simplest moments. One afternoon, I caught a whiff of something delectable wafting through my neighbor’s open window—it turned out to be her delightful take on dessert. That spontaneous aroma beckoned me to recreate a little elegance of my own, and so, inspired by classic confections, I decided to whip up some Brownie Petit Fours. These bite-sized treats are nothing short of luxurious, combining the rich, fudgy goodness of brownies with a silky ganache and just a hint of fleur de sel. Perfect for any gathering, their compact size makes them a crowd-pleasing sensation without being overwhelming. Whether you’re hosting a soirée or simply treating yourself, these delightful petit fours promise a sweet escape into the world of homemade indulgence. Join me as we dive into this elegant recipe that transforms a simple brownie into a spectacular showstopper!
Why are Brownie Petit Fours so irresistible?
Charming Size: These delightful confections are perfectly portioned, allowing for guilt-free indulgence.
Decadent Layers: The silky ganache enveloping each square adds a touch of luxury, making them visually stunning and mouthwateringly tasty.
Versatile Serving: Ideal for celebrations, coffee breaks, or casual get-togethers, they fit seamlessly into any occasion.
Ease of Preparation: Despite their elegant appearance, they require minimal effort and basic baking skills, making them accessible for all.
Flavor Perfection: With the rich, fudgy brownie base harmoniously balanced by a sprinkle of fleur de sel, each bite offers a memorable experience.
For creative serving suggestions, consider pairing them with your favorite coffee or dessert wine!
Brownie Petit Fours Ingredients
For the Brownie Base
• Semisweet Chocolate (4 oz, chopped) – Core ingredient providing the rich chocolate flavor; substitute with milk chocolate for a sweeter option.
• Unsalted Butter (¾ cup, 165g) – Adds moisture and richness; keeping it unsalted gives you control over the final saltiness.
• Granulated Sugar (¾ cup, 150g) – Sweetens the brownie base; no direct substitute for equivalent results, but coconut sugar can add a unique flavor.
• Light Brown Sugar (½ cup, 100g) – Enhances moisture and provides a hint of caramel; dark brown sugar can deepen the taste.
• Eggs (3 large) – Essential for structure and moisture; be sure they’re at room temperature for optimal blending.
• Vanilla Extract (1½ tsp) – Adds depth and warmth; using pure vanilla extract will elevate the flavor significantly.
• All-Purpose Flour (1 cup, 140g) – Gives body to the brownies; for a gluten-free variation, use a gluten-free flour blend.
• Cocoa Powder (¾ cup, 65g) – Intensifies the chocolate flavor; Dutch-processed cocoa offers a smoother taste.
• Salt (¾ tsp) – Balances sweetness; it’s crucial for enhancing the overall flavor, so don’t skip it.
For the Ganache Coating
• Heavy Whipping Cream (¾ cup, 6 oz) – Key for making the ganache luscious; coconut cream can be used for a dairy-free alternative.
• Fleur de Sel (for sprinkling) – Adds a sophisticated touch and contrast to the sweetness; it’s optional but highly recommended for the best flavor.
How to Make Brownie Petit Fours
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Preheat Oven: Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, prepare an 8×8-inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal later.
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Melt Chocolate & Butter: In a heatproof bowl, combine the chopped semisweet chocolate and unsalted butter. Melt them over a double boiler or in the microwave until smooth, stirring occasionally for even consistency.
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Combine Wet Ingredients: Once melted, remove the bowl from heat. Whisk in both granulated and brown sugars until well combined. Then, add the eggs (make sure they’re at room temperature) and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth and unified.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gently fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined—be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are fine!
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Bake: Pour the brownie batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs; this indicates they’re perfectly fudgy.
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Cool: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan. This is crucial for proper cutting later—patience is key!
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Prepare Ganache: In a saucepan, heat the heavy whipping cream until it just begins to simmer. Pour this hot cream over the chopped chocolate and let it sit for 2-3 minutes. Then stir until smooth and silky, forming your luxurious ganache.
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Cut Brownies: Once cooled, carefully lift the brownie slab from the pan using the parchment paper. Cut them into small squares or rectangles, aiming for uniform sizes for a nice presentation.
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Coat with Ganache: Dip each brownie piece into the ganache, ensuring they are thoroughly coated. Allow any excess ganache to drip off before proceeding.
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Set & Serve: Place each coated brownie on a rack or a parchment-lined tray. Sprinkle fleur de sel over them for a touch of elegance and let the ganache set before serving—about 30 minutes should do the trick!
Optional: Garnish with edible gold leaf or fresh berries for an extra touch of luxury.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Brownie Petit Fours are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time while still delivering a decadent dessert! You can prepare the brownie base up to 24 hours in advance; simply bake them, let them cool completely, and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Additionally, the ganache can be made and refrigerated for up to 3 days; just reheat gently before coating your brownies. When you’re ready to serve, dip the pre-cut brownie squares in the ganache, sprinkle with fleur de sel, and allow to set for about 30 minutes. This way, you’ll have beautiful, gourmet Brownie Petit Fours ready to impress with minimal last-minute effort!
How to Store and Freeze Brownie Petit Fours
Room Temperature: Keep the brownie petit fours in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for optimal freshness and flavor.
Fridge: If you have leftovers, store them in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Make sure they’re well-covered to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the brownie petit fours for up to 3 months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for easy access.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight, or let them sit at room temperature for about an hour before serving.
Expert Tips for Perfecting Brownie Petit Fours
- Melt with Care: Ensure chocolate and butter are completely melted for a smooth batter. Using a double boiler yields the best results.
- Cooling is Key: Let the brownies cool entirely before cutting; this prevents crumbling and allows for cleaner edges when coated with ganache.
- Unleash Your Creativity: Feel free to add chopped nuts or swap out chocolate types, adapting the Brownie Petit Fours to your taste preferences!
- Stay Patient: Don’t rush the ganache setting process—allow at least 30 minutes for it to firm up, ensuring a beautiful finish.
- Store Smart: Keep your petit fours in an airtight container to maintain freshness. They last up to 3 days at room temperature or a week in the fridge.
What to Serve with Brownie Petit Fours?
Savoring these elegant treats opens the door to a delightful culinary experience that complements their rich flavors beautifully.
- Fresh Berries: The tartness of strawberries or raspberries cuts through the sweetness, adding a refreshing contrast that brightens each bite.
- Whipped Cream: A light and airy dollop of homemade whipped cream enhances the decadence, creating a creamy balance against the rich ganache.
- Espresso: The robust bitterness of espresso elevates the chocolate experience, making it an indulgent pairing that warms the soul.
- Hazelnut Liqueur: A touch of this nutty liqueur brings out the chocolate notes beautifully, offering a sophisticated adult twist that delights the palate.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle extra chocolate sauce on top to intensify the dessert experience. Every sweet tooth will thank you for this luxurious addition.
- Coconut Ice Cream: Scoop of coconut ice cream adds a tropical flair while providing a cool and creamy offset to the rich brownie flavors.
- Mint Tea: The refreshing notes of mint tea cleanse the palate, offering a soothing end to your sweet moments, making it ideal for a cozy evening.
- Chocolate Mint Cookies: For added texture and flavor, serve alongside chocolate mint cookies for a harmonious chocolate journey in one impressive spread.
These pairings create a synergetic meal, heightening the experience of your Brownie Petit Fours and making them even more delightful!
Brownie Petit Fours Variations
Feel free to customize these delightful treats with your favorite twists and substitutions to make them truly yours!
- Dark Chocolate: Swap semisweet chocolate for dark chocolate for a richer taste. This can enhance the brownie’s depth and complexity.
- Nutty Addition: Incorporate chopped walnuts or almonds into the brownie batter for an extra crunchy texture that complements the fudgy base.
- Flavored Ganache: Experiment with flavored ganaches like white chocolate or caramel for a unique twist that balances sweetness and richness beautifully.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour to make these decadent bites suitable for gluten-sensitive friends and family.
- Mini Decor: Top your petit fours with a dusting of cocoa powder or mini chocolate chips, adding a playful touch that elevates presentation.
- Fun Fillings: Add a layer of fruit preserves or jam in the center before baking for a delightful surprise in every bite, mixing sweetness with tartness.
- Spice It Up: For a kick, add a teaspoon of espresso powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the brownie batter; this intensifies the chocolate flavor and adds warmth.
- Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream in the ganache for a rich, dairy-free alternative without compromising on taste.
Brownie Petit Fours Recipe FAQs
What type of chocolate is best for making Brownie Petit Fours?
Using semisweet chocolate is ideal as it provides the rich chocolate flavor that defines these petit fours. However, if you prefer a sweeter option, milk chocolate can be used instead. For a deeper chocolate experience, consider dark chocolate as a substitute.
How should I store leftover Brownie Petit Fours?
To keep your brownie petit fours fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week, but ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent drying out.
Can I freeze Brownie Petit Fours?
Absolutely! You can freeze brownie petit fours for up to 3 months. Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or let them sit at room temperature for about an hour.
What if my brownies are too crumbly after cutting?
If you find that your brownies are crumbling when you cut them, it may be due to not allowing them to cool completely before cutting. Make sure to let them cool fully in the pan. Additionally, be cautious not to overbake them; a toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs. This will keep the brownies fudgy and easier to handle.
Are there any dietary considerations for Brownie Petit Fours?
These brownies are vegetarian. However, if gluten is a concern, you can easily substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. For a dairy-free version, swap the heavy whipping cream in the ganache with coconut cream. Always ensure that any substitutions meet your dietary needs.
How long should the ganache set before serving?
Once you’ve coated your brownie petit fours with ganache, allow them to set for about 30 minutes at room temperature. This will enable the ganache to firm up properly, creating a nice glossy finish that’s both visually appealing and delicious.
Indulge in Decadent Brownie Petit Fours for Every Occasion
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Melt chopped semisweet chocolate and unsalted butter over a double boiler or microwave until smooth.
- Whisk in granulated sugar and brown sugar, followed by eggs and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Sift together all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Fold this mixture into the wet mixture.
- Pour brownie batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes.
- Cool brownies completely in the pan before lifting out and cutting into squares.
- Heat heavy whipping cream in a saucepan until it simmers, pour over chopped chocolate, let sit for 2-3 minutes, then stir until smooth.
- Dip each brownie square in the ganache and allow excess to drip off.
- Place coated brownies on a rack, sprinkle fleur de sel, and let ganache set for 30 minutes before serving.