French Silk Brownies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this recipe because it’s an easy way to elevate boxed brownies into a luxurious dessert with a silky, chocolate mousse layer on top. The creamy French silk layer is smooth and luscious, perfectly complementing the dense, fudgy brownies. Finished with whipped topping and chocolate garnish, these brownies look impressive yet are simple to prepare.

Ingredients

Brownies:

• 1 box brownie mix (not prepared)
• 1 egg
• 5½ tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup milk

French Silk Layer:

• 8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cubed
• 8 ounces Cool Whip

Topping:

• 8 ounces Cool Whip
• Chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat oven according to the brownie mix instructions. Prepare the brownie mix as directed, substituting in the melted butter and milk as part of the wet ingredients. Add the egg and mix well.
2. Pour the brownie batter into a greased or parchment-lined baking pan and bake as directed on the box. Let cool completely.
3. For the French silk layer: Melt the semi-sweet chocolate and cubed butter together until smooth, then let cool slightly.
4. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue beating until fully combined.
5. Slowly add the cooled chocolate mixture into the cream cheese mixture and beat until smooth.
6. Fold in the 8 ounces of Cool Whip gently until well combined.
7. Spread the French silk layer evenly over the cooled brownie base.
8. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until set.
9. Before serving, spread the remaining 8 ounces of Cool Whip on top.
10. Garnish with chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips for decoration.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 12 brownies.
Preparation time: 25 minutes (excluding baking and chilling)
Baking time: As per brownie box instructions (typically 20-30 minutes)
Chilling time: At least 2 hours
Total time: About 3 hours including chilling

Variations

• Use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet for a richer French silk layer.
• Add a tablespoon of espresso powder to the chocolate for a mocha flavor.
• Substitute Cool Whip with homemade whipped cream for a fresher taste.
• Sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch.
• Drizzle caramel sauce over the top before serving for extra decadence.

Storage/Reheating

Store the brownies covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They are best served chilled or at room temperature. Do not freeze, as the creamy layers may separate.

FAQs

Can I use homemade brownies instead of boxed mix?

Yes, homemade brownies will work well; just ensure they are fully cooled before adding the French silk layer.

Can I substitute cream cheese with mascarpone?

Mascarpone can be used for a slightly richer texture but may change the flavor slightly.

Is it necessary to use Cool Whip?

Cool Whip provides stability and lightness, but whipped cream can be used as a substitute.

Can I prepare this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, make it a day ahead to allow flavors to meld and the French silk layer to set.

How do I prevent the French silk layer from melting?

Keep the dessert refrigerated until serving and avoid leaving it at room temperature for long.

Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet?

Milk chocolate will make a sweeter, creamier French silk layer.

What pan size should I use?

An 8×8 or 9×9-inch pan works well for this recipe.

How do I store leftovers?

Cover tightly and refrigerate; consume within 4 days.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use a larger pan and adjust baking time if needed.

Can I add other toppings?

Fresh berries or a dusting of cocoa powder complement the chocolate well.

Conclusion

French Silk Brownies are a decadent, crowd-pleasing dessert that combines fudgy brownies with a smooth, creamy French silk chocolate layer and fluffy whipped topping. Simple to prepare but impressive to serve, these brownies are perfect for chocolate lovers seeking an elegant and indulgent treat.

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