Ina Garten Brownies with Ganache

Ina Garten’s brownies with ganache are the ultimate chocolate indulgence—rich, fudgy, and topped with a smooth, glossy chocolate ganache. These brownies have a deep cocoa flavor, a slightly crackly top, and a luscious ganache that makes them extra decadent. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a chocolate treat, this recipe is sure to impress.

What Are Ina Garten Brownies with Ganache?

Ina Garten’s brownies are a classic, made with high-quality chocolate, butter, and eggs for a dense, fudgy texture. The addition of a thick chocolate ganache topping elevates them, adding a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth finish that makes them irresistible.

Other Popular Recipes

• Ina Garten Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies
• Ina Garten Chocolate Brownie Pudding
• Ina Garten Chocolate Flourless Cake
• Ina Garten Texas Sheet Cake

Reasons to Try Ina Garten Brownies with Ganache

• Ultra-fudgy texture – Moist, rich, and dense with a soft, gooey center.
• Silky ganache topping – A smooth and glossy chocolate layer enhances the flavor.
• Simple to make – Uses pantry staples and straightforward steps.
• Perfect for any occasion – Great for parties, bake sales, or as a homemade gift.
• Make-ahead friendly – Brownies taste even better the next day as the flavors develop.

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten Brownies with Ganache

For the Brownies:

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 8 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt

For the Ganache:

• 8 ounces semisweet chocolate, finely chopped
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten Brownies with Ganache

• Preheat the oven – Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
• Melt butter and chocolate – In a heatproof bowl, melt the butter and bittersweet chocolate over a double boiler, stirring until smooth. Let it cool slightly.
• Whisk eggs and sugar – In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy.
• Combine wet and dry ingredients – Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt, then fold them into the wet mixture.
• Bake the brownies – Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let the brownies cool completely.
• Prepare the ganache – Heat the heavy cream and butter in a saucepan until just simmering. Pour over the chopped semisweet chocolate and let sit for 2 minutes. Stir until smooth, then mix in the vanilla extract.
• Spread the ganache – Pour the ganache over the cooled brownies, spreading evenly with a spatula.
• Chill before slicing – Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the ganache to set before cutting into squares.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten Brownies with Ganache

• Pair with vanilla ice cream – The creamy contrast balances the rich chocolate flavor.
• Top with sea salt flakes – Enhances the sweetness with a slightly salty crunch.
• Serve with fresh berries – Raspberries or strawberries add a refreshing touch.
• Drizzle with caramel sauce – Adds an extra layer of indulgence.
• Enjoy with coffee or milk – Complements the deep chocolate notes beautifully.

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten Brownies with Ganache

• Use high-quality chocolate – The better the chocolate, the richer the brownies.
• Don’t overmix the batter – Mix just until combined to keep the brownies fudgy.
• Bake until just set – Overbaking will result in drier brownies.
• Let brownies cool completely – Allow the ganache to set properly.
• Chill for clean cuts – Refrigerating the brownies before slicing ensures neat edges.
• Warm the knife for slicing – Dip a knife in hot water, then dry before cutting for smooth slices.

Creative Variations of Ina Garten Brownies with Ganache

• Add nuts – Stir in chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
• Use flavored ganache – Infuse the ganache with espresso, orange zest, or peppermint extract.
• Mix in chocolate chunks – Fold in extra chocolate pieces for melty pockets.
• Layer with peanut butter – Swirl peanut butter into the brownie batter before baking.
• Turn into brownie truffles – Roll small brownie squares in cocoa powder or melted chocolate.

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten Brownies with Ganache

• Store at room temperature – Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerate for longer freshness – Store in the fridge for up to a week.
• Freeze for up to 3 months – Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container.
• Thaw before serving – Let frozen brownies sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before eating.

Reheating Tips for Ina Garten Brownies with Ganache

• Microwave for a warm treat – Heat for 10-15 seconds to soften the ganache.
• Oven method for a fresh-baked feel – Warm in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes.
• Serve cold for a fudgy texture – Chilled brownies have an extra rich and dense bite.

FAQs

How do you make brownies extra fudgy instead of cakey?

To make brownies fudgier, use more butter and chocolate and reduce the amount of flour. Avoid overbaking—remove them from the oven when the center is slightly underdone, as they will continue setting while cooling. Using melted chocolate instead of cocoa powder also contributes to a fudgier texture.

Why does my brownie ganache not set properly?

If the ganache remains too runny, it may need more time to chill. Refrigerate the brownies for at least an hour to allow the ganache to firm up. Using the right ratio of chocolate to heavy cream (typically 2:1) also ensures a thick and spreadable consistency.

Can I freeze brownies with ganache?

Yes, brownies with ganache can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. When ready to serve, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for 30 minutes.

What is the best way to cut brownies with ganache neatly?

To achieve clean brownie slices, chill them in the refrigerator for at least an hour before cutting. Use a sharp knife, wipe it clean between cuts, or dip the knife in hot water and dry it before slicing to get smooth, even pieces.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s brownies with ganache take classic brownies to the next level with a silky, chocolatey topping. Rich, fudgy, and deeply satisfying, these brownies are perfect for any occasion.

Try it today and indulge in pure chocolate bliss!

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