Brownie Petit Fours

Make Brownie Petit Fours with chocolate ganache in two delicious ways! These delightful mini desserts are perfect for any occasion, from fancy parties to casual gatherings. Their rich chocolate flavor and elegant presentation will impress your guests. Whether served at a holiday feast or as a sweet treat for a cozy night in, these petit fours stand out for their versatility and indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions, you can whip up these brownie petit fours in no time.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of semisweet chocolate and butter creates an irresistibly rich taste that satisfies chocolate cravings.
• Versatile Presentation: These mini desserts can be dressed up or down, making them suitable for both casual and formal occasions.
• Decadent Ganache Options: Choose between two methods for adding a lush chocolate ganache, elevating the brownies to gourmet status.
• Perfect for Sharing: Serve them at parties or gatherings; their small size makes them easy to share.

Tools and Preparation

To make the brownie petit fours successfully, having the right tools is essential. Preparation is simple, but these tools will help you achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×9-inch baking pan: Ensures even baking and the right thickness for your brownies.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes allows for efficient mixing of ingredients.
• Whisk: Perfect for combining wet and dry ingredients smoothly.
• Rubber spatula: Ideal for folding in chocolate without losing airiness.

Ingredients

Make brownie petit fours with chocolate ganache in two ways!

For the Brownies

• 4 ounces (about 3/4 cup) 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

For the Ganache

• 6 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped or in morsels
• 3/4 cup (6 ounces) heavy whipping cream

For Serving

• Fleur de sel, for sprinkling

How to Make Brownie Petit Fours

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your brownies bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Grease your 9×9-inch baking pan with butter or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Melt Chocolate and Butter

In a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl, combine the chopped semisweet chocolate and butter. Heat gently until melted, stirring to combine smoothly.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted chocolate mixture with sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually fold this into the wet mixture using a rubber spatula until fully combined.

Step 6: Bake the Brownies

Pour the brownie batter into your prepared pan. Bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs.

Step 7: Prepare Ganache

While the brownies cool, heat heavy whipping cream in a saucepan until simmering. Pour it over the chopped semisweet chocolate in a bowl. Let it sit for a few minutes before stirring until smooth.

Step 8: Assemble Petit Fours

Once brownies are cool, cut them into small squares. Dip each square into ganache or drizzle it on top. Sprinkle with fleur de sel before serving.

Enjoy making these delectable brownie petit fours!

How to Serve Brownie Petit Fours

Brownie petit fours are versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance your dessert experience. Whether for a special occasion or a casual gathering, these delightful treats can impress your guests.

Elegant Platter Display

• Arrange the brownie petit fours on a beautiful platter. Use tiered stands for added height and visual appeal.

Individual Boxes

• Package each brownie petit four in small decorative boxes. This makes for perfect party favors or gifts.

Dessert Buffet

• Include brownie petit fours as part of a dessert buffet. Pair them with other mini desserts for a diverse selection.

Coffee Pairing

• Serve brownie petit fours alongside espresso or rich coffee. The chocolate flavor complements the bitterness of coffee beautifully.

Seasonal Touch

• Decorate your brownie petit fours with seasonal fruits or edible flowers. This adds freshness and color to your presentation.

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How to Perfect Brownie Petit Fours

To achieve the best brownie petit fours, attention to detail is key. Here are some tips to make sure they turn out perfectly every time.

• Use quality chocolate – High-quality semisweet chocolate enhances flavor and texture.
• Measure ingredients accurately – Precise measurements help maintain consistency in baking.
• Cool completely before cutting – Allow brownies to cool fully before cutting to prevent crumbling.
• Chill before frosting – Chilling the brownies makes it easier to apply ganache smoothly.
• Experiment with flavors – Add spices like cinnamon or orange zest for a unique twist.
• Store properly – Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for optimal freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Brownie Petit Fours

Pairing side dishes with brownie petit fours can elevate your dessert spread. Here are some fantastic options that complement these sweet treats.

1. Fresh Berries – A mix of strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries adds brightness and acidity.
2. Vanilla Ice Cream – The creaminess of vanilla ice cream balances the richness of the brownies.
3. Whipped Cream – Light and airy, whipped cream adds a fluffy texture that pairs nicely with chocolate.
4. Chocolate Sauce – Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over the brownies for an extra indulgent touch.
5. Caramel Drizzle – A sweet caramel drizzle brings a different flavor profile that enhances the dessert.
6. Mint Leaves – Fresh mint leaves can add a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the brownies.
7. Coconut Flakes – Toasted coconut adds an interesting crunch and tropical flavor that complements chocolate well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Brownie Petit Fours can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Boldly skipping the chilling step: Not chilling the brownies before cutting can lead to uneven pieces. Make sure to let them cool fully in the refrigerator.
• Ignoring ingredient temperature: Using cold eggs or butter can affect the batter texture. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth mix.
• Overbaking the brownies: Baking too long can dry out your brownies. Keep an eye on them and use a toothpick test; it should come out with a few moist crumbs.
• Not measuring accurately: Incorrect measurements can ruin the balance of flavors. Use a kitchen scale for precise amounts, especially for flour and sugar.
• Forgetting ganache proportions: Using too much or too little cream in your chocolate ganache affects texture. Follow the recipe closely for perfect results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Brownie Petit Fours

• Wrap each petit four tightly in plastic wrap.
• Store in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Brownie Petit Fours

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place brownies on a baking sheet and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one brownie at a time on low power for about 15-20 seconds. Be careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Use a pan on low heat, covered, for about 5 minutes, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Brownie Petit Fours that might help you perfect your dessert.

What are Brownie Petit Fours?

Brownie Petit Fours are small, elegant brownie squares often topped with chocolate ganache. They make delightful bite-sized desserts suitable for any occasion.

How do I customize my Brownie Petit Fours?

You can add nuts, dried fruits, or flavored extracts to personalize your brownies. Experiment with different toppings like sprinkles or sea salt for variety!

Can I make Brownie Petit Fours ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them up to three days in advance and store them in the refrigerator or freeze them for longer storage.

How should I serve Brownie Petit Fours?

Serve them chilled or at room temperature on a decorative platter. They pair well with coffee or milk as a sweet treat!

Final Thoughts

Brownie Petit Fours are an irresistible treat that combines rich chocolate flavor with elegant presentation. Their versatility allows for many customization options, making them perfect for any gathering or celebration. Try this recipe and indulge in these heavenly mini desserts!