Brownie Petit Fours

Brownie petit fours are the perfect bite-sized treat that combines the richness of brownies with the elegance of mini desserts. These delightful morsels are ideal for any occasion, from birthday parties to holiday gatherings. With their luscious chocolate ganache and beautiful presentation, brownie petit fours will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: The simple ingredients and straightforward steps mean you can whip these up in no time.
• Decadent Flavor: The combination of semisweet chocolate and rich ganache creates an irresistible treat.
• Versatile for Occasions: Perfect for celebrations, tea parties, or a cozy night in; these petite desserts fit any scenario.
• Impressive Presentation: Their small size and beautiful finish make them look like they came straight from a fancy bakery.
• Customizable: Feel free to add toppings or flavors to make them uniquely yours.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your brownie petit fours, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking pan: A good-quality pan ensures even baking, giving you perfectly cooked brownies every time.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls allows for efficient mixing without cross-contaminating ingredients.
• Spatula: This tool helps in smoothly spreading the brownie batter and transferring ganache without mess.

Ingredients

Make brownie petit fours with chocolate ganache in two ways!

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

• 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). Grease your baking pan with butter or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Melt Chocolate and Butter

In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the chopped semisweet chocolate and unsalted butter. Stir until melted and smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix Sugars and Eggs

In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, light brown sugar, and eggs until well blended. Add in the melted chocolate mixture along with the vanilla extract. Stir until combined.

Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients

Sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients using a spatula until just combined.

Step 5: Bake the Brownies

Pour the brownie batter into your prepared baking pan. Bake in preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs attached.

Step 6: Prepare Chocolate Ganache

While brownies are cooling, heat heavy whipping cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Pour over chopped semisweet chocolate in a bowl. Let sit for a few minutes before stirring until smooth.

Step 7: Assemble Petit Fours

Once brownies are completely cooled, cut them into small squares or rectangles. Dip each piece into the chocolate ganache or pour it over top. Finish with a sprinkle of fleur de sel for an elegant touch.

Now you have delicious brownie petit fours ready to be enjoyed!

How to Serve Brownie Petit Fours

Brownie petit fours are a delightful treat that can be served in various ways to impress your guests or enjoy as a sweet indulgence. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.

Individual Dessert Plates

• Serve each brownie petit four on a decorative plate for an elegant presentation. Add a dollop of whipped cream for extra flair.

Dessert Platter

• Arrange multiple brownie petit fours on a large platter. This allows guests to sample several flavors and makes for a beautiful centerpiece.

Mini Dessert Shooters

• Layer brownie petit fours in small shot glasses with whipped cream or mousse. This creates an appealing visual effect and is perfect for parties.

With Fresh Fruit

• Pair brownie petit fours with fresh berries or sliced fruit. The tartness of the fruit complements the rich chocolate flavor beautifully.

Coffee or Tea Pairing

• Serve brownie petit fours alongside a cup of coffee or tea. The warm beverage enhances the chocolate richness and provides a comforting contrast.

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How to Perfect Brownie Petit Fours

To make your brownie petit fours truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips.

• Use high-quality chocolate: The better the chocolate, the richer the flavor will be. Choose semisweet chocolate that you enjoy eating on its own.

• Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on your brownies while baking. Overbaking can make them dry, so take them out when they are just set in the middle.

• Cool completely before cutting: Allow the brownies to cool fully before cutting them into petit fours. This ensures clean edges and helps maintain their shape.

• Experiment with flavors: Try adding different extracts or spices like almond extract or cinnamon to give your brownies a unique twist.

Best Side Dishes for Brownie Petit Fours

Serving side dishes can enhance your dessert experience and complement the rich flavors of brownie petit fours. Here are some great options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that balances the richness of brownies with creamy sweetness.

2. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over your brownie petits for an extra indulgent touch.

3. Caramel Sauce: Adding caramel sauce brings a buttery sweetness that pairs well with chocolate desserts.

4. Fresh Berries: Raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries add a refreshing tartness that brightens up the dish.

5. Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, whipped cream is perfect for topping off your brownies and adding a creamy texture.

6. Nuts: Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can add crunch and enhance the overall flavor profile of your dessert.

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 and how to avoid them.

• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can lead to tough brownies. Stir just until combined for a tender texture.
• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can result in undercooked or burnt brownies. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer for accuracy.
• Skipping the Cooling Time: Cutting brownies while they are warm can cause them to crumble. Allow them to cool completely before slicing.
• Not Using Quality Chocolate: The flavor of your brownie petit fours depends on the chocolate used. Invest in high-quality chocolate for the best taste.
• Ignoring Measurements: Baking is precise, so not measuring ingredients accurately can ruin your recipe. Use a kitchen scale for 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 petit four individually in plastic wrap.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container; they will last up to 3 months.

Reheating Brownie Petit Fours

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one at a time for about 15-20 seconds on medium power; check often.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Brownie Petit Fours.

Can I use different types of chocolate?

Yes! You can mix semisweet with dark or milk chocolate based on your preference.

How do I make my brownie petit fours more festive?

You can add colored sprinkles, edible glitter, or top with seasonal fruits for decoration.

What should I serve with brownie petit fours?

Pair them with whipped cream, ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.

Can I customize the flavors?

Absolutely! Adding extracts like almond or mint can create unique flavor profiles.

How long do these last at room temperature?

Brownie petit fours last about 2 days at room temperature if stored properly.

Final Thoughts

These Brownie Petit Fours are not only delicious but also versatile. Their bite-sized nature makes them perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to elegant parties. Feel free to customize them with various toppings or flavors that suit your taste. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy these delightful treats!