Imagine biting into a fudgy brownie that melts in your mouth, balanced perfectly with a rich, creamy layer of mascarpone. These Chocolate Mascarpone Brownies are not just any dessert; they are a celebration of chocolate that will leave you craving more. With a luscious texture and a deep, chocolatey flavor, these brownies are the ultimate indulgence for chocolate lovers.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, this recipe is sure to impress. So, let’s dive into how to create these decadent delights!
Why I Love This Recipe
There’s something truly special about combining chocolate with mascarpone cheese. The mascarpone adds a creamy, velvety texture that elevates the classic brownie to new heights. What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity; you can whip it up in no time, and the results are always spectacular. Plus, who can resist a warm brownie fresh out of the oven? They are perfect for serving at dinner parties, or even just enjoying with a cup of coffee on a cozy evening.
The Ingredient Lineup
To make these irresistible Chocolate Mascarpone Brownies, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter – This forms the base of our brownies, giving them that rich flavor.
- 3 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped – Adds depth and a luxurious chocolate taste.
- 1 cup granulated white sugar – Sweetens the brownies perfectly.
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder – Enhances the chocolate flavor.
- 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese, at room temperature – Provides a creamy texture.
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature – Binds the ingredients together.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Infuses a lovely aroma and flavor.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour – Gives structure to the brownies.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness.
- 6 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped – For the luscious chocolate ganache topping.
- 6 tablespoons whipping cream – Creates a smooth ganache.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces – Adds richness to the ganache.
Equipment at a Glance
Before we start baking, let’s gather the necessary equipment:
- Mixing Bowls – You’ll need a couple of mixing bowls for combining ingredients.
- Whisk – For mixing the batter smoothly.
- Baking Pan – An 8×8 inch pan works perfectly for these brownies.
- Double Boiler or Microwave – For melting chocolate.
- Spatula – To scrape down the sides and fold in ingredients.
Chocolate Mascarpone Brownies: Step-by-Step Guide
Let’s get started on these Chocolate Mascarpone Brownies! Follow these simple steps for a delightful treat.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures perfectly baked brownies.
Step 2: Melt the Butter and Chocolate
In a double boiler or microwave, melt the 1 cup of unsalted butter and the 3 ounces of chopped semisweet chocolate together. Stir until smooth and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Combine Sugar and Cocoa
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and unsweetened cocoa powder until well combined.
Step 4: Add Mascarpone and Eggs
To the sugar and cocoa mixture, add the mascarpone cheese, and mix until smooth. Then, add the 3 large eggs and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Whisk until fully incorporated.
Step 5: Mix in Melted Chocolate
Pour the melted chocolate and butter mixture into the bowl with the other ingredients. Stir until combined.
Step 6: Add Flour and Salt
Sift in the 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Gently fold the mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Step 7: Bake
Pour the brownie batter into a greased 8×8 inch baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges look set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Step 8: Prepare the Ganache
While the brownies are baking, prepare the ganache. In a small saucepan, combine the 6 ounces of chopped semisweet chocolate, 6 tablespoons of whipping cream, and 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Stir over low heat until melted and smooth.
Step 9: Top the Brownies
Once the brownies are finished baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for about 10 minutes. Pour the ganache over the top and spread it evenly.
Step 10: Cool and Slice
Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, slice into squares and enjoy!
Make It Fit Your Plan
Looking to customize your Chocolate Mascarpone Brownies? Here are some ideas:
- Nutty Twist: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
- Minty Fresh: Mix in 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract for a refreshing mint flavor.
- Vegan Option: Substitute eggs with flax eggs and use dairy-free chocolate for a vegan-friendly version.
- Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Notes from the Test Kitchen
– For the best texture, make sure your eggs and mascarpone cheese are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smooth batter.
– Don’t overbake the brownies! Keep an eye on them, as they will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven.
– For an extra touch, sprinkle some sea salt over the ganache before it sets for a delightful sweet-salty contrast.
Storing, Freezing & Reheating
– Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
– To freeze, wrap individual brownie pieces tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
– To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds until just warmed through.
Reader Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of mascarpone?
Yes! You can substitute mascarpone with cream cheese or ricotta, but the flavor and texture will vary slightly.
How can I make these brownies less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe by 1/4 cup, and consider using a dark chocolate with a higher cocoa content for a richer flavor.
What if I don’t have a double boiler?
No problem! You can melt the chocolate and butter in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.
Can I add frosting on top of the ganache?
Absolutely! If you’re feeling extra indulgent, a layer of whipped cream on top of the ganache would be delicious.
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Save & Share
If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family! These Chocolate Mascarpone Brownies are perfect for sharing, and I’m sure everyone will appreciate the deliciousness.
Indulging in a rich, chocolatey treat like these brownies is a joy that should be shared. So go ahead, bake a batch, and enjoy every fudgy bite!
Chocolate Mascarpone Brownies
Ingredients
For the Brownies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter This forms the base of our brownies, giving them that rich flavor.
- 3 ounces semisweet chocolate chopped
- 1 cup granulated white sugar Sweetens the brownies perfectly.
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder Enhances the chocolate flavor.
- 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese at room temperature
- 3 large eggs at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract Infuses a lovely aroma and flavor.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour Gives structure to the brownies.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt Balances the sweetness.
For the Ganache:
- 6 ounces semisweet chocolate chopped
- 6 tablespoons whipping cream Creates a smooth ganache.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter cut into pieces
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures perfectly baked brownies.
- In a double boiler or microwave, melt the 1 cup of unsalted butter and the 3 ounces of chopped semisweet chocolate together. Stir until smooth and set aside to cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and unsweetened cocoa powder until well combined.
- To the sugar and cocoa mixture, add the mascarpone cheese, and mix until smooth. Then, add the 3 large eggs and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Whisk until fully incorporated.
- Pour the melted chocolate and butter mixture into the bowl with the other ingredients. Stir until combined.
- Sift in the 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Gently fold the mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Pour the brownie batter into a greased 8x8 inch baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges look set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- While the brownies are baking, prepare the ganache. In a small saucepan, combine the 6 ounces of chopped semisweet chocolate, 6 tablespoons of whipping cream, and 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Stir over low heat until melted and smooth.
- Once the brownies are finished baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for about 10 minutes. Pour the ganache over the top and spread it evenly.
- Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, slice into squares and enjoy!
Equipment
- Mixing Bowls
- Whisk
- Baking Pan
- Double boiler or microwave
- Spatula
Notes
- For the best texture, make sure your eggs and mascarpone cheese are at room temperature before mixing.
- Don’t overbake the brownies! Keep an eye on them, as they will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven.
- For an extra touch, sprinkle some sea salt over the ganache before it sets for a delightful sweet-salty contrast.
