Name: French Silk Brownies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 28 min
Total time: 43 min
Cuisine: American
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; 8 ounces Cool Whip; Chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips (for garnish)

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Introduction

French Silk Brownies combine the rich, fudgy texture of classic brownies with a light, creamy chocolate topping for a decadent dessert experience. This layered treat is perfect for chocolate lovers seeking something both indulgent and elegant. Easy to make and sure to impress, it’s a delightful twist on a favorite dessert.

A close-up of a square dessert with three clear layers on a white plate set on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is dark, dense, and slightly crumbly like chocolate cake. The middle layer is a thick, smooth, light brown mousse or cream. The top layer is a fluffy, white whipped cream thickly spread with soft peaks and sprinkled with fine dark chocolate shavings. The dessert edges are clean and slightly soft, showing the smooth texture of each layer. A fork is slightly visible on the left side. 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
8 ounces Cool Whip (additional)
Chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips (optional, for topping)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease an 11×7-inch (2 quart) glass baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
Step 2: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the brownie mix, egg, melted butter, and milk. Stir until smooth, then spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Step 3: Bake the brownies at 350°F for 25-28 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove and let cool completely to room temperature.
Step 4: In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and vanilla extract with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. 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 well combined, then gently fold in the first 8-ounce tub of Cool Whip.
Step 7: Spread this French silk mixture over the cooled brownies. Then, spread the remaining 8 ounces of Cool Whip evenly on top.
Step 8: If desired, sprinkle chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips over the top. Slice into squares and serve.

Tips & Variations

For a richer chocolate flavor, use high-quality semi-sweet chocolate or substitute with dark chocolate.
If you prefer a less sweet topping, reduce the powdered sugar slightly in the cream cheese layer.
Try adding a sprinkle of sea salt or chopped nuts on top for added texture and contrast.
Make sure the brownies are completely cool before adding the French silk layer to prevent melting or sliding.

Storage

Store French Silk Brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Due to the cream cheese and Cool Whip topping, refrigeration is important to keep the dessert fresh. Before serving, you can let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften slightly. Avoid freezing as the texture may change.

How to Serve

The image shows a dessert with three distinct layers on a white plate over a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is a dark brown, dense chocolate cake. The middle layer is a creamy, light brown chocolate mousse that looks smooth and thick. The top layer is a fluffy, white whipped cream spread unevenly with soft peaks and sprinkled with dark brown chocolate shavings. A silver fork rests beside the dessert on the plate. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the brownies from scratch instead of a mix?

Yes, you can substitute your favorite scratch brownie recipe for the brownie mix. Just ensure the baked brownies are cooled completely before adding the French silk layer.

What can I use instead of Cool Whip?

You can use homemade whipped cream or whipped heavy cream as a substitute for Cool Whip. Just make sure to whip it to stiff peaks and fold gently into the chocolate mixture for a light texture.