Chocolate Ganache Brownies
Chocolate Ganache Brownies is a easy American recipe that serves 12. 250 calories per serving. Recipe by Patrick Zeinali on YouTube.
Prep: 6 min | Cook: 30 min | Total: 46 min
Cost: $4.75 total, $0.40 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 cup Milk Chocolate (chopped into small pieces, high‑quality)
- 1 stick Unsalted Butter (cut into cubes, room temperature)
- 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (sifted)
- 1 cup Granulated Sugar (white granulated sugar)
- 0.5 cup Whole Milk (room temperature)
Instructions
Melt Chocolate and Butter
Place chopped milk chocolate and butter in a microwave‑safe bowl. Microwave on high for 45 seconds, then stir; repeat in 15‑second bursts until fully melted and smooth.
Time: PT1M
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the sifted flour and granulated sugar until evenly distributed.
Time: PT2M
Add Milk to Dry Mix
Pour the half‑cup of milk into the dry mixture and stir just until combined; the batter will be slightly lumpy.
Time: PT1M
Mix Wet and Dry
Pour the melted chocolate‑butter mixture into the bowl with the flour‑sugar‑milk batter. Stir gently until a smooth, glossy batter forms.
Time: PT2M
Bake Brownies
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line the 8×8‑inch baking pan with parchment paper. Pour the batter into the pan, spreading evenly. Bake for 30 minutes, or until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Time: PT30M
Temperature: 350°F
Cool and Slice
Remove the pan from the oven and let the brownies cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then lift the brownies using the parchment paper and cut into 12 squares.
Time: PT15M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 250
- Protein
- 3g
- Carbohydrates
- 30g
- Fat
- 12g
- Fiber
- 1g
Dietary info: Vegetarian
Allergens: Milk, Butter, Wheat
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Milk Chocolate: Dark Chocolate, Semi‑Sweet Chocolate Chips
- Instead of Unsalted Butter: Margarine
- Instead of All-Purpose Flour: Gluten‑Free Flour Blend
- Instead of Granulated Sugar: Coconut Sugar
- Instead of Whole Milk: Almond Milk (will change texture)
Equipment Needed
- Microwave‑Safe Bowl
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk or Spoon
- 8×8‑Inch Baking Pan
- Parchment Paper (optional)
- Oven
- Oven Mitts
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Melt chocolate and butter completely without burning
- Combine wet and dry mixtures without overmixing
- Bake until edges are set but the center remains fudgy
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use high‑quality milk chocolate for a richer flavor.
- Line the pan with parchment for easy removal and cleaner edges.
Troubleshooting
Brownies are dry and crumbly
Reduce flour to ¾ cup or add an extra tablespoon of butter; ensure you do not overbake.
Brownies are too cakey
Make sure the chocolate and butter are fully melted and mixed; avoid overmixing the batter.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
Room temperature: Can sit at room temperature for 1‑2 days in a sealed container.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Bake the brownies a day ahead and store in an airtight container for best flavor.
- Freeze individual squares; reheat in the microwave for 10‑15 seconds before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of Chocolate Ganache Brownies in American dessert cuisine?
Chocolate brownies originated in the United States in the early 20th century and quickly became a beloved home‑baked treat. The ganache version adds melted chocolate and butter for an ultra‑rich, fudgy texture that reflects America’s love for indulgent, easy desserts.
What are the traditional regional variations of brownies in the United States?
In the U.S., brownies range from cakey (often with added leavening) to fudgy (like this ganache version). Some regions add nuts, swirl in caramel, or incorporate peanut butter for local twists.
How are Chocolate Ganache Brownies traditionally served in American households?
They are typically cut into squares and served plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert pairing.
What occasions or celebrations are Chocolate Ganache Brownies commonly associated with in American culture?
Brownies are a staple at potlucks, bake sales, birthday parties, and casual family gatherings, prized for their simplicity and crowd‑pleasing flavor.
What makes Chocolate Ganache Brownies special or unique in American dessert tradition?
The use of a chocolate‑butter ganache base creates a dense, glossy crumb that’s richer than standard brownie recipes, embodying the American penchant for decadent, comfort‑food desserts.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Chocolate Ganache Brownies?
Common errors include overheating the chocolate‑butter mixture, overmixing the batter, and overbaking, which can turn a fudgy brownie into a dry cake‑like texture.
Why does this Chocolate Ganache Brownies recipe use a microwave to melt chocolate and butter instead of a double boiler?
Microwaving is faster and gives a consistent melt without the extra equipment; the short 45‑second bursts prevent scorching, which is essential for a smooth ganache.
Can I make Chocolate Ganache Brownies ahead of time and how should I store them?
Yes, bake the brownies a day ahead, let them cool, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze for up to two months. Bring to room temperature before serving for optimal texture.
What does the YouTube channel Patrick Zeinali specialize in?
The YouTube channel Patrick Zeinali focuses on quick, approachable home cooking tutorials that emphasize minimal ingredients and straightforward techniques for everyday meals and desserts.
How does the YouTube channel Patrick Zeinali's approach to American dessert cooking differ from other cooking channels?
Patrick Zeinali prioritizes ultra‑simple recipes—often five ingredients or fewer—while still delivering high‑flavor results, contrasting with many channels that use more complex ingredient lists or elaborate techniques.
Last updated: August 22, 2026
