Looking for a dish that wows your guests without stressing you out? These Brownie Petit Fours are the answer for your next holiday gathering. They are rich, fudgy, and look like they came from a fancy bakery. You will love how simple they are to put together in your own kitchen.
Winter is the perfect time for cozy, chocolatey treats that feel special. These little squares bring a touch of elegance to any snowy evening. Your family will enjoy the deep chocolate flavor in every single bite. It is the ultimate holiday dessert for busy home cooks.
Why These Brownie Petit Fours Are a Winner
These treats are a winner because they combine comfort with elegance. They are perfect for a winter dessert table or a cozy party. You get the deep flavor of a brownie in a dainty package. Every bite is pure chocolate bliss for your family and friends.
The recipe uses simple pantry staples you likely already have. You do not need any special equipment to make these look professional. They are great for feeding a crowd because one batch makes plenty. This is a budget-friendly way to impress all your guests this season.
Easy Cooking Steps
Making these fancy treats is much easier than it looks. You start by baking a simple, one-bowl brownie base. Once cooled, you cut them into small, uniform squares. The secret is the pour-over ganache that creates a smooth finish. Even a beginner can master this beautiful chocolate glaze.
The decoration step is where you can really have some fun. A simple drizzle of white chocolate makes them look like boutique confections. You can involve the kids in the decorating process too. Creating these beautiful treats is a joy for the whole family.
What You Need
This recipe uses high-quality chocolate and simple baking essentials for the best results.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 ounces white chocolate, melted for decoration
Step-by-Step
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Whisk together melted butter and granulated sugar in a medium bowl, then incorporate eggs and vanilla extract.
- Sift together cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder; fold into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Transfer batter to the prepared pan and bake for 22 to 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with few moist crumbs.
- Cool the brownie slab completely in the pan, then transfer to a cutting board and trim edges before cutting into 1.25-inch squares.
- Heat heavy cream until simmering and pour over the chopped semi-sweet chocolate; let sit for 5 minutes then stir until a smooth ganache forms.
- Place brownie squares on a wire cooling rack over a parchment-lined tray and spoon ganache over each piece to coat the top and sides.
- Allow the ganache to set for at least 1 hour at room temperature, then pipe decorative patterns using melted white chocolate.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve these beautiful squares on a large white platter for a striking look. They pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or cold milk. Arrange them in a pyramid shape for a fun party centerpiece. You can also place them in small paper cupcake liners for easy serving. Light a few candles and enjoy these with your favorite people.
Keep It Fresh
Store your leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for two days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to one week. The ganache stays shiny and beautiful when kept in a cool spot. You can even freeze the unglazed brownies to save time later. Just thaw them completely before adding the fresh chocolate glaze and decorations.
Tips for Best Results
- Do not overbake the brownies to keep them moist and fudgy.
- Chill the brownies before cutting to get perfectly clean, sharp edges.
- Use a hot knife to slice through the brownie slab easily.
- Wipe the knife clean between every single cut you make.
- For the holidays, add a tiny pinch of crushed peppermint on top.
- Let the ganache sit until it is thick enough to coat.
- Always use parchment paper for easy removal from the baking pan.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Swap the white chocolate drizzle for festive colored sprinkles.
- Add a half teaspoon of almond extract for a nutty flavor.
- In the summer, top each square with a fresh raspberry.
- Use dark chocolate for the ganache for a less sweet version.
Quick Answers
Can I make these a day ahead?
Yes, these are excellent for making ahead of your party. The flavor actually improves as the brownies sit and settle. Just keep them in a cool place so the chocolate stays set.
How do I know when the brownies are done?
Check them at the 22-minute mark with a wooden toothpick. You want a few moist crumbs to cling to the stick. If it comes out clean, they might be a bit dry.
Will kids enjoy these treats?
Absolutely, kids love the bite-sized shape and the rich chocolate. They are the perfect size for little hands at a family gathering. They are a guaranteed kid-approved hit at every single event.
I hope these elegant little treats bring joy to your winter gatherings. They are so simple to make but look truly special on the table. Happy baking and enjoy every chocolatey bite!
— Lidia
Brownie Petit Fours
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large egg s
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all -purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon sal t
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 4 ounces semi -sweet chocolate, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 ounces white chocolate, melted for decoration
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Whisk together melted butter and granulated sugar in a medium bowl, then incorporate eggs and vanilla extract.
- Sift together cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder; fold into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Transfer batter to the prepared pan and bake for 22 to 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with few moist crumbs.
- Cool the brownie slab completely in the pan, then transfer to a cutting board and trim edges before cutting into 1.25-inch squares.
- Heat heavy cream until simmering and pour over the chopped semi-sweet chocolate; let sit for 5 minutes then stir until a smooth ganache forms.
- Place brownie squares on a wire cooling rack over a parchment-lined tray and spoon ganache over each piece to coat the top and sides.
- Allow the ganache to set for at least 1 hour at room temperature, then pipe decorative patterns using melted white chocolate.
