Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these brownie shortbread bars with ganache! They’re like a sweet little hug in dessert form. Imagine biting into a rich, fudgy brownie that melts in your mouth, perfectly balanced by a buttery shortbread layer that adds the most delightful crunch. And then, as if that weren’t enough, there’s a silky ganache on top that just takes it over the top! I remember making these for a gathering with some friends, and we could barely wait for them to cool before diving in. The laughter and smiles as we savored each bite were just priceless. Trust me, whether you’re hosting a party or just craving something sweet, these bars will steal the show every time!
Ingredients for Brownie Shortbread Bars with Ganache
Gather these simple ingredients, and you’ll be on your way to creating the most delicious brownie shortbread bars with ganache!
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened to room temperature, so it creams easily)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder (make sure it’s unsweetened for that rich chocolate flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (I love using good quality for that melt-in-your-mouth goodness)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (this is for the luscious ganache topping)
How to Prepare Brownie Shortbread Bars with Ganache
Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of making these scrumptious brownie shortbread bars with ganache! Don’t worry, it’s easier than it sounds, and I promise you’ll be feeling like a baking superstar in no time. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to dessert heaven!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven: First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial, so don’t skip it! A hot oven ensures your bars bake evenly.
- Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy. I like to use an electric mixer for this, but a good old-fashioned whisk works too if you’re feeling strong!
- Add the dry ingredients: Now, sift in the flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt. Mix until just combined. You want it to come together, but don’t overmix—this keeps your bars tender!
- Press into the pan: Grease a baking pan (I usually use an 8×8 inch one) and then press the brownie shortbread mixture evenly into the bottom. It should be nice and compact! A flat-bottomed glass works great for this part.
- Bake it up: Pop that pan into your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until it’s set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. You’re going to love the smell wafting through your kitchen!
- Make the ganache: While the bars are cooling a bit, grab a saucepan and heat the heavy cream on medium heat until it’s just about boiling. Then, remove it from the heat and stir in the chocolate chips. Keep stirring until it’s smooth and glossy—this is where the magic happens!
- Pour the ganache: Once your brownie shortbread base has cooled for a few minutes, pour that luscious ganache over the top and spread it out evenly with a spatula. Oh wow, just look at that shine!
- Cool and cut: Let the bars cool completely at room temperature before cutting them into squares. This will help the ganache set up nicely, giving you those perfect, clean edges.
And there you have it! You’ve just made the most irresistible brownie shortbread bars with ganache. Get ready for everyone to ask for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparation—perfect for those last-minute dessert cravings!
- Rich, fudgy brownie layer combined with a buttery shortbread base creates a delightful texture.
- Decadent ganache topping adds a luxurious finish that impresses every time.
- Versatile dessert—great for parties, family gatherings, or just a cozy night in!
- Can be made ahead of time and stored for later, making it stress-free for entertaining.
- Kids and adults alike can’t resist these bars—great for satisfying any sweet tooth!
- Endless customization options to make them uniquely yours—add nuts, spices, or different chocolates!
Tips for Success
To ensure your brownie shortbread bars with ganache turn out perfectly every time, here are some of my favorite pro tips!
- Butter Temperature: Make sure your butter is at room temperature before you start. This helps it cream with the sugar more easily, giving you that light and fluffy texture.
- Don’t Overmix: When you add the dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can make the bars tough, and we want them to be melt-in-your-mouth delicious!
- Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on the baking time, but also do the toothpick test! If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, you’re good to go. If there’s wet batter, give it a few more minutes.
- Cooling Time: Allow the brownie base to cool slightly before adding the ganache. This prevents the ganache from melting too much and losing that beautiful sheen!
- Pouring Ganache: When pouring the ganache, start from the center and use a spatula to spread it towards the edges. This helps you achieve an even layer without disturbing the brownie base.
- Storage Tips: For the best flavor and texture, store your bars in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for about 3-4 days—if they last that long!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create the most amazing brownie shortbread bars with ganache! Happy baking!
Variations on Brownie Shortbread Bars with Ganache
If you’re like me and love to mix things up in the kitchen, you’ll be excited about the endless possibilities for customizing these brownie shortbread bars with ganache! Here are some fun ideas to give this already delicious treat your own twist:
- Nuts: Add some chopped walnuts or pecans to the brownie layer for a delightful crunch and added flavor. Just fold them in after mixing your dry ingredients!
- Different Chocolates: Experiment with various types of chocolate for the ganache. Dark chocolate gives a rich, intense flavor, while milk chocolate creates a sweeter, creamier topping. You could even mix a bit of white chocolate in for a fun contrast!
- Flavor Extracts: Try adding a teaspoon of almond or peppermint extract to the brownie batter for a unique flavor profile. A little goes a long way, so start with a small amount and adjust to your taste!
- Sea Salt: Sprinkle a bit of flaky sea salt on top of the ganache right after pouring it. The sweet and salty combo is absolutely irresistible!
- Fruit Swirls: For a fruity twist, swirl in some raspberry or cherry jam into the brownie batter before baking. It adds a pop of color and a burst of flavor!
- Coconut: Fold in some shredded coconut into the brownie mix for a tropical flair. You could even top the ganache with toasted coconut for extra texture and taste!
- Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder to the brownie mix for an extra depth of flavor. It’s a delicious way to enhance that chocolatey goodness!
With these variations, you can make your brownie shortbread bars with ganache even more delightful and uniquely yours. Get creative and have fun with it! I can’t wait to hear what combinations you come up with!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to indulging in these heavenly brownie shortbread bars with ganache, it’s always good to have a little insight into the nutritional content! Here’s the estimated breakdown per serving (1 bar):
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 100mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 15g
- Protein: 3g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates based on typical ingredients, and they can vary a bit depending on the brands you use or any variations you make. But one thing’s for sure: every bite is worth it!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Once you’ve made these delicious brownie shortbread bars with ganache, you’ll want to make sure they stay fresh and tasty! Here’s how to store them properly:
- Storing: Place your cooled brownie shortbread bars in an airtight container. I like to use a container with a little space so they don’t squish together. If you’ve got more than one layer, you can place a piece of parchment paper between the layers to keep the ganache from sticking.
- Duration: These bars will stay fresh for about 3-4 days at room temperature, but they might not last that long because they’re so irresistible! If you want to keep them longer, you can store them in the fridge for up to a week.
- Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the bars! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll be good for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just let them thaw overnight in the fridge.
If you prefer them warm, here’s how to reheat:
- Reheating: To bring back that fresh-out-of-the-oven feel, pop a bar in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Just keep an eye on it! You want it warm, but not so hot that the ganache melts too much.
- Oven Method: If you’re reheating multiple bars, you can place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. This helps restore that lovely texture while keeping the chocolate nice and melty.
With these storage and reheating tips, you’ll always be ready to enjoy your brownie shortbread bars with ganache, whether they’re fresh or a few days old! Happy snacking!
FAQ About Brownie Shortbread Bars with Ganache
Got some questions about these delectable brownie shortbread bars with ganache? No worries, I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common queries I receive, along with my tried-and-true answers.
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Absolutely! If you use salted butter, just skip the additional salt in the recipe. It’ll add a nice flavor, but keep in mind it might be a tad saltier than intended.
How should I store leftover bars?
To keep your bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you want to make them last longer, pop them in the fridge for about a week!
Can I freeze these bars?
Yes! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll last for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight when you’re ready to enjoy!
What can I substitute for heavy cream in the ganache?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half. Just keep in mind that the ganache might not be as rich. For a dairy-free alternative, use coconut cream!
How do I serve these bars?
You can serve them chilled or at room temperature. I love drizzling a little extra ganache on top or adding a sprinkle of sea salt just before serving for that extra touch!
What if I don’t have an 8×8 inch pan?
No problem! You can use a 9×9 inch pan; just keep an eye on the baking time, as they might bake a bit faster in a larger pan. If you have smaller pans, you can also make mini bars—just adjust the baking time accordingly!
Can I make these bars in advance?
Definitely! These bars are great for making ahead of time. Just bake and add the ganache, then let them cool completely before storing them. They’ll be perfect for parties or when you want a sweet treat ready to go!
Why did my ganache not set properly?
If your ganache is too runny, it might be due to too much cream or not enough chocolate. Make sure to follow the ratios closely. If it’s too thin, you can always refrigerate it for a bit to help it firm up before pouring it over your bars.
With these FAQs, I hope your brownie shortbread bar-making experience is as smooth as that luscious ganache! Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have more questions. Happy baking!
Print
Brownie Shortbread Bars with Ganache: 7 Sweet Indulgences
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious brownie shortbread bars topped with rich ganache.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth.
- Add flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Mix until combined.
- Press the mixture into a greased baking pan.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until set.
- In a saucepan, heat heavy cream until just boiling.
- Remove from heat and stir in chocolate chips until melted and smooth.
- Pour ganache over the baked shortbread and spread evenly.
- Let cool before cutting into bars.
Notes
- Store bars in an airtight container.
- For a richer taste, add a pinch of espresso powder to the ganache.
- These bars can be served warm or chilled.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: brownie shortbread bars with ganache