There’s something magical about blending the fudgy richness of brownies with the silky smoothness of French silk pie. It’s a combination that speaks to the chocolate lover in all of us. These French Silk Pie Brownies are a delightful treat for any occasion, offering layers of texture and flavor that are sure to impress. The inspiration for this recipe came from a family gathering where everyone wanted both brownies and pie for dessert, so I decided to combine the best of both worlds.
I remember the first time I made these brownies; it was for a holiday party. As I placed them on the dessert table, they quickly became the star of the evening. Friends and family couldn’t stop talking about the unique combination of creamy French silk pie topping on a dense, chewy brownie base. The best part? They’re surprisingly easy to make, thanks to a few convenient shortcuts. Here’s how you can create this decadent dessert in your own kitchen.
Equipment List
- Mixing bowls
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Spatula
- Baking pan (size recommended by brownie mix)
- Refrigerator
Ingredients
For the Brownies:
- 1 box (18.3 oz.) fudge brownie mix
For the Topping:
- 1 bar (4 oz.) German chocolate bar, finely chopped
- 4 tbsp. (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, cubed
- 1 pkg. (8 oz.) cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 1 tub (16 oz.) frozen whipped topping, thawed
- Chocolate curls or mini chocolate chips, for decorating (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare and Bake the Brownies:
- Preheat your oven as directed by the brownie mix package.
- Prepare the brownie batter according to the package directions.
- Pour the batter into a greased baking pan and bake as directed.
- Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan.
- Make the French Silk Topping:
- In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the chopped German chocolate and butter. Microwave on HIGH for 30 seconds, then stir. Continue microwaving in 15-second intervals, stirring after each, until the chocolate and butter are completely melted and smooth.
- Add the softened cream cheese and confectioners’ sugar to the melted chocolate mixture. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat until fully combined and smooth.
- Fold in half of the whipped topping (8 oz.) gently until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Assemble the Brownies:
- Spread the French silk filling evenly over the cooled brownies.
- Top with the remaining whipped topping, spreading it evenly over the silk layer.
- Garnish with chocolate curls or mini chocolate chips if desired.
- Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate the brownies for at least 4 hours or until the topping is set.
- Once set, cut into squares and serve.
Tips and Variations
- Chill the Tools: For an extra fluffy topping, chill your mixing bowl and beaters before preparing the whipped topping mixture.
- Add a Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts or crushed cookies between the brownie layer and the silk filling for added texture.
- Flavor Twist: Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture for a subtle flavor enhancement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of chocolate for the topping? A: Yes, you can substitute the German chocolate bar with semi-sweet or dark chocolate if you prefer a less sweet topping.
Q: How do I store the leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Q: Can I freeze these brownies? A: Yes, you can freeze them. Wrap individual brownie squares in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Q: Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of frozen whipped topping? A: Absolutely! Just make sure to whip it to stiff peaks to ensure it holds up well in the topping.
These French Silk Pie Brownies are a perfect dessert for when you want to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. They combine the best of two beloved treats into one irresistible bite. Whether it’s for a family gathering, a holiday party, or just a special treat for yourself, these brownies are sure to be a hit. Enjoy the decadent layers and let each bite transport you to chocolate heaven!