Brownie Petit Fours Recipe

If you have a sweet tooth and a soft spot for bite-sized delights, you are absolutely going to fall in love with these Brownie Petit Fours. These little squares of rich, fudgy brownie are dressed up with a luscious chocolate ganache and finished with just a sprinkle of fleur de sel for that perfect touch of salty-sweet magic. They combine the deep chocolate flavor of classic brownies with the elegance and charm of petit fours, making them perfect for everything from casual coffee breaks to fancy dessert trays. Trust me, once you try these Brownie Petit Fours, you’ll want to make them again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating these Brownie Petit Fours is surprisingly straightforward, and that’s thanks to a handful of simple ingredients that work beautifully together. Each one plays a crucial role — from giving the brownies their rich, moist texture to crafting a silky ganache that makes every bite indulgent.

• Semisweet chocolate (4 ounces): This is the foundation of your brownies, lending a deep, bittersweet chocolate flavor and smooth richness.
• Unsalted butter (¾ cup): Adds moisture and helps create that tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture you want in a brownie.
• Granulated sugar (¾ cup): Balances the dark chocolate with just the right level of sweetness.
• Light brown sugar (½ cup): Brings a subtle caramel note and keeps the brownies deliciously soft.
• Large eggs (3): Bind everything together while adding a little lift and richness.
• Vanilla extract (1½ teaspoons): Enhances the chocolate flavor and adds a warm aroma.
• All-purpose flour (1 cup): The structure-builder that holds the brownies together without making them cakey.
• Cocoa powder (¾ cup): Boosts the chocolate intensity and ensures a moist, fudgy crumb.
• Salt (¾ teaspoon): Essential for balancing all the sweetness and intensifying flavors.
• Semisweet chocolate (6 ounces) for ganache: Creates the glossy, creamy coating that transforms these little brownies into elegant petit fours.
• Heavy whipping cream (¾ cup): Gives the ganache its luscious, silky texture.
• Fleur de sel (for sprinkling): Adds a gourmet touch of saltiness that enhances every bite.

How to Make Brownie Petit Fours

Step 1: Prepare Your Brownie Base

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing an 8×8-inch baking pan, lining it with parchment paper for easy removal. The combination of semisweet chocolate and butter melts together to create the decadent heart of your brownie. Once melted and smooth, you’ll stir in both sugars, giving the batter a balanced sweetness and that classic chewy texture.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

Next comes the eggs, added one at a time so your batter stays silky and smooth. A splash of vanilla extract follows, bringing out the rich chocolate notes even more. This step is key for a brownie batter that is perfectly blended and ready to accept the dry ingredients.

Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Sifting the flour, cocoa powder, and salt together ensures no lumps and even distribution of flavor. Carefully folding these dry ingredients into the chocolate mixture keeps the batter light and fudgy, avoiding over-mixing that could make your brownies tough.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Pour your batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top for an even bake. Pop it into the oven for 20 to 25 minutes, checking with a toothpick — you want a few moist crumbs, not dry batter. This timing creates the perfect balance: rich and fudgy inside with a slight crust on top.

Step 5: Cut and Cool

Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan. This step not only helps the brownies set firmly but makes cutting neat little squares or rectangles—your petit fours—much easier and less messy. Precision here sets the stage for those elegant little desserts everyone will admire.

Step 6: Make the Ganache Coating

Heat the heavy cream until it just begins to simmer, then pour it over the chopped semisweet chocolate. Let it sit for a few minutes so the chocolate melts gently, then stir until the ganache is glossy and smooth. This rich chocolate drizzle is what takes your brownie squares from simple to stunning.

Step 7: Glaze and Finish

Dip each brownie petit four into the ganache or pour it over the top, letting the excess drip away. The ganache should envelop each square with a shiny, luscious coating. A light sprinkle of fleur de sel over each piece adds that irresistible salty contrast that perfectly complements the sweet chocolate.

How to Serve Brownie Petit Fours

Garnishes

Beyond the fleur de sel, these petit fours invite creativity. Fresh berries or a dusting of cocoa powder can add color and texture, while edible gold leaf or a few crushed toasted nuts bring a touch of elegance and crunch. Garnishes not only elevate presentation but layer in extra flavor.

Side Dishes

Serve your Brownie Petit Fours alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or dollops of freshly whipped cream to balance the richness. A rich coffee or a glass of red wine pairs beautifully, enhancing the chocolate’s complexity and making each bite even more memorable.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange these petite delights on a tiered cake stand for a fancy tea party or line them up on a rustic wooden board for a casual get-together. Wrapping each in parchment paper tied with a ribbon turns them into charming homemade gifts. Presentation really lets your personality shine through with these little chocolate treasures.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store any leftover Brownie Petit Fours in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps the ganache glossy and the brownies perfectly moist, ready for spontaneous indulgence or sharing with friends.

Freezing

If you want to keep these treats for longer, freezing works beautifully. Place the petit fours in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep well for up to two months, so you can enjoy a bite of chocolate heaven anytime.

Reheating

To enjoy the brownies as if fresh, gently thaw frozen petit fours at room temperature. Avoid microwaving to preserve the texture and ganache finish. If you want a warm treat, let them sit in a low oven (about 250°F) for a few minutes, watching closely to prevent melting.

FAQs

Can I use dark chocolate instead of semisweet?

Absolutely! Dark chocolate will intensify the brownies’ richness and add a slightly bitter edge, which pairs nicely with the sweet ganache. Just make sure to balance the sugars accordingly if you prefer less sweetness.

What size should I cut the Brownie Petit Fours?

Traditionally, petit fours are small bite-sized pieces. About 1 to 1½ inch squares work well, making them easy to enjoy in a couple of bites while looking elegant on the plate.

Do I need to refrigerate Brownie Petit Fours?

Because of the ganache topping, storing them at room temperature is fine for a few days. For longer storage, refrigerate them in an airtight container to keep the ganache firm but bring to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

Can I make the ganache ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ganache a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and gently warm it before applying to the brownies to ensure it spreads smoothly and looks glossy.

Are Brownie Petit Fours suitable for special occasions?

Definitely! Their sophisticated look and rich flavor make them a fantastic choice for celebrations, from birthdays to holiday parties. Plus, they’re easy to portion and serve to guests, streamlining your dessert menu.

Final Thoughts

Making Brownie Petit Fours is a joyful experience that combines the comfort of classic brownies with a touch of elegance. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just treating yourself and loved ones, these delightful petite squares deliver rich chocolate flavor with a beautiful finish. I promise once you try these, they’ll become a cherished recipe in your collection—so why not give them a go and share the love?

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