Decadent Triple Chocolate Brownies

Ingredients:

For the Brownie Base:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup dark chocolate chunks
• 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Chocolate Ganache Topping:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 8 oz dark chocolate, chopped (or use dark chocolate chips)
• 1 tablespoon butter (optional for extra shine)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Chips and Chunks Topping:

• 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup milk chocolate chunks
• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional for garnish)

 

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Batter

1. Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easier removal.
2. Melt the butter and chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the butter, semi-sweet chocolate chips, and dark chocolate chunks. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the chocolate and butter are completely melted and smooth. Let it cool for a few minutes.
3. Combine sugars and eggs: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined. The mixture should be pale and creamy.
4. Add the melted chocolate: Slowly pour the slightly cooled chocolate-butter mixture into the sugar-egg mixture. Stir until well combined.
5. Add dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, being careful not to overmix. The batter will be thick and fudgy.

Step 2: Bake the Brownies

1. Pour and smooth the batter: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula for even baking.
2. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean, with a few moist crumbs. Be cautious not to overbake the brownies, as they will continue to firm up as they cool.
3. Cool completely: Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan. This cooling step is crucial for getting clean, neat slices later.

 

Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache Topping

1. Heat the cream: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer (small bubbles will form around the edges). Do not let it boil.
2. Add the chocolate: Remove the saucepan from the heat and add the chopped dark chocolate. Let it sit for 1-2 minutes, then stir gently until the chocolate has completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
3. Add vanilla and butter: Stir in the butter (if using) and vanilla extract. The butter adds a glossy finish to the ganache.

Step 4: Assemble the Brownies

1. Pour the ganache: Once the brownies have cooled completely, pour the prepared ganache over the top. Use a spatula or offset knife to spread it evenly across the surface.
2. Add the chocolate chips and chunks: While the ganache is still wet, sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips, milk chocolate chunks, and mini chocolate chips (if using) over the top. Gently press them into the ganache so they stick when it sets.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

1. Chill to set: Place the brownie pan in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours or until the ganache is fully set and firm.
2. Slice and serve: Once set, remove the brownies from the fridge. For best results, run a sharp knife under hot water, wipe it dry, and slice the brownies into squares or rectangles, cleaning the knife between cuts for neat slices.

 

Tips for the Best Triple Chocolate Brownies:

• Don’t overmix the batter: This ensures your brownies stay fudgy rather than cakey.
• Room temperature eggs: Using room temperature eggs will help the batter mix together more smoothly.
• Chill before cutting: Allowing the brownies to cool completely (even chilling them) before slicing will give you cleaner edges.
• Toppings: You can also add other toppings like crushed nuts, sprinkles, or caramel drizzle for extra indulgence.

These Decadent Triple Chocolate Brownies are packed with layers of rich chocolate, fudgy goodness, and a velvety ganache topping, making them a truly irresistible dessert. Enjoy!