Introduction

French Silk Brownies combine rich, fudgy brownie base with a luscious, creamy chocolate topping for an indulgent dessert experience. This elegant treat is perfect for special occasions or whenever you crave a decadent chocolate delight.

A slice of dessert on a white plate showing three clear layers: a bottom dark brown crumbly crust, a middle smooth light brown creamy layer, and a top fluffy white cream layer sprinkled with small chocolate shavings. Next to the plate, there is a silver fork resting on it. In the background, a white rectangular dish with the rest of the dessert, showing the same three layers, sits on a white marbled surface with a yellow and white striped cloth partially under the dessert dish. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 box brownie mix (not prepared)
1 egg
5 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
1/4 cup milk
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 (divided in two 8 ounce tubs)
Chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease an 11×7-inch (2 quart) glass baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to prepare for the brownie batter.
Step 2: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the brownie mix, egg, melted butter, and milk. Stir until the batter is smooth. Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking dish and bake for 25 to 28 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 3: Remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool completely to room temperature before adding the topping.
Step 4: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the cream cheese and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and mix until fully combined.
Step 5: In a small microwave-safe bowl, heat the semi-sweet chocolate and cubed butter in 30-second intervals, stirring well between each, until melted and smooth.
Step 6: Add the melted chocolate and butter mixture to the cream cheese mixture. Stir until the two are well combined. Gently fold in half of the Cool Whip (about 8 ounces) to keep the mixture light and airy.
Step 7: Spread the French silk chocolate layer evenly over the cooled brownies. Then, spread the remaining Cool Whip on top to create a creamy finish.
Step 8: If desired, sprinkle chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips over the top for extra texture and decoration. Slice into squares and serve.

Tips & Variations

For a more intense chocolate flavor, use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate in the topping.
Chill the brownies for an hour before serving to help the layers set and make slicing easier.
Swap Cool Whip with homemade whipped cream for a fresher, less processed option.
Add a handful of chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the brownie batter for added crunch.

Storage

Store French Silk Brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The creamy topping benefits from chilling and will stay fresh and stable. To serve, you can enjoy them cold or let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to soften slightly.

How to Serve

A large dark, rectangular baking dish filled with a creamy white layer of whipped topping that covers the entire surface in soft, swirled peaks. The top is sprinkled unevenly with fine, dark brown chocolate shavings, adding texture and contrast. The dish is placed on a white marbled texture background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use homemade brownie batter instead of a boxed mix?

Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite homemade brownie recipe as the base. Just bake it in the same size dish and adjust the baking time as needed.

Is it necessary to use Cool Whip, or can I use another topping?

You can substitute Cool Whip with freshly whipped cream for a lighter, less sweet topping. Just be sure to fold it in gently to maintain the creamy texture of the French silk layer.