Decadent Ghirardelli Sweet Ground Chocolate Brownies with Caramel Swirls
Prepare to elevate your dessert game with these truly exceptional Ghirardelli Sweet Ground Chocolate Brownies. Unlike typical brownie recipes that rely solely on cocoa powder or baking chocolate, these brownies harness the unique magic of Ghirardelli Sweet Ground Chocolate and Cocoa. This special blend, usually found in a distinctive gold canister and cherished for crafting luxurious hot chocolate, proves to be an absolute game-changer in baked goods, lending an unparalleled richness and depth of flavor that will make these brownies an instant favorite.
The Secret Ingredient: Ghirardelli Sweet Ground Chocolate
What sets these brownies apart is the star ingredient: Ghirardelli Sweet Ground Chocolate and Cocoa. This isn’t your everyday cocoa powder or melted chocolate bar. It’s a finely ground mixture of chocolate and cocoa, perfectly sweetened and designed to dissolve beautifully, creating a wonderfully smooth and intensely chocolatey experience. While it’s famously used for creating gourmet hot cocoa and mochas, its finely milled texture and balanced sweetness make it an extraordinary choice for baking. When incorporated into brownies, it delivers a deeply fudgy texture and a complex, luxurious chocolate flavor that’s both comforting and sophisticated.
The convenience of having a perfectly balanced chocolate and cocoa blend means less fuss in the kitchen and consistently delicious results. It takes the guesswork out of combining different types of chocolate and sugar, allowing you to achieve that signature Ghirardelli taste with ease. If you’ve been searching for a brownie recipe that truly stands out, the unique characteristics of this sweet ground chocolate are precisely what you need to achieve an incredibly moist, rich, and dense brownie with an irresistible crackly top.
Customizing Your Brownies: Ghirardelli Sweet Ground Chocolate Add-Ins
One of the joys of baking brownies is the endless possibility for customization. These Ghirardelli Sweet Ground Chocolate brownies are a fantastic canvas for your favorite additions. I’ve experimented with various mix-ins over the years, and each time, they’ve been met with rave reviews. For a truly decadent experience, caramel is often my top choice, and there are a couple of delicious ways to incorporate it.
The Allure of Caramel: Inside or On Top?
Initially, I loved the surprise of finding caramel candies (like Nestle Treasures or Ghirardelli Caramel Squares) buried within the brownies. This method creates pockets of gooey, melted caramel that are a delightful discovery with every bite. To achieve this, you simply pour half of your brownie batter into the prepared pan, artfully arrange a layer of Ghirardelli Caramel Squares (or similar soft caramels) over it, and then carefully cover with the remaining batter before baking. The caramel melts beautifully into the fudgy chocolate, creating a rich and complex flavor profile.
However, my current preference leans towards a stunning caramel topping. This approach offers a visually appealing swirl and a slightly different texture experience. As soon as you pull the hot brownies from the oven, immediately lay Ghirardelli Caramel Squares (the Dark Chocolate Caramel Squares work exceptionally well here, adding another layer of chocolatey goodness) evenly over the top. The residual heat from the freshly baked brownies will gently melt the caramel, allowing it to soften and create a beautiful, glistening layer that you can then swirl with a knife or toothpick if desired. Alternatively, you can add an optional melted chocolate glaze after the brownies have cooled slightly, then chop up caramel candies and sprinkle them over the top for a lovely textural contrast and an extra burst of sweetness.
Beyond Caramel: Exploring Other Add-In Possibilities
While caramel is a phenomenal partner to these chocolate brownies, don’t hesitate to get creative with other add-ins. Consider stirring in:
- Nuts: Toasted walnuts, pecans, or almonds add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the rich chocolate beautifully.
- Additional Chocolate Chips: Ghirardelli bittersweet, semi-sweet, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate chips can be folded into the batter for an extra chocolate boost and varied texture.
- Marshmallows: Swirl in mini marshmallows during the last few minutes of baking for a s’mores-inspired brownie.
- Pretzels: For a salty-sweet crunch, crushed pretzels can be added to the batter or sprinkled on top.
- Dried Fruits: Cherries or cranberries can add a tangy counterpoint to the sweetness.
- Candy Bar Chunks: Your favorite candy bars, chopped into bite-sized pieces, can be a fun and delicious addition.
No matter your choice, ensure any add-ins are well-distributed throughout the batter for an even burst of flavor and texture in every square.
Brownies with Caramel Inside: An Alternative Classic
While these Ghirardelli Sweet Ground Chocolate brownies offer a unique and luxurious experience, sometimes you might be craving a slightly different take on caramel-filled brownies. If you’re not completely committed to using sweet ground chocolate and prefer a recipe made with traditional unsweetened chocolate, I highly recommend exploring my favorite Caramel Filled Brownies. This classic recipe uses regular unsweetened chocolate and luscious melted Kraft caramels, offering a different but equally delightful texture and flavor profile. It’s a fantastic option if you have these ingredients on hand and are looking for another reliable and delicious caramel brownie recipe.
Recipe: Ghirardelli Sweet Ground Chocolate Brownies
Ghirardelli Sweet Ground Chocolate Brownies
By Anna
Pin Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup (4 oz) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 ¼ cup Ghirardelli Sweet Ground Chocolate and Cocoa
- ⅔ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ tsp. baking powder
- ¼ tsp. salt
- 16 Ghirardelli Dark Chocolate Caramel Squares (optional, for topping or filling)
- ½ cup Ghirardelli bittersweet chocolate chips (optional, for garnish or mix-in)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy lifting, and grease the bottom only. Alternatively, you can simply use aluminum foil, ensuring it covers the bottom and sides thoroughly.
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In a medium bowl, whisk together the large eggs, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined and slightly frothy. Gradually add the melted unsalted butter, whisking continuously until fully incorporated.
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In a separate bowl, combine the Ghirardelli Sweet Ground Chocolate and Cocoa with the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir this dry mixture into the wet egg mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher brownies. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared 8-inch square pan.
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Bake for 20-30 minutes. The brownies are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs, but not wet batter. Optional: As soon as you pull the brownies from the oven, immediately lay the Ghirardelli Dark Chocolate Caramel Squares over the top. Let them sit for a few minutes to melt slightly, then spread gently if desired. Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before attempting to cut them. This is crucial for a fudgy texture and clean squares. Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift them out, then cut into 9 even squares.
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Optional melted chocolate garnish: Place the Ghirardelli bittersweet chocolate chips in a heavy-duty freezer bag (ensure it’s freezer-grade to prevent melting through). Microwave on high for 30 seconds. Remove and massage the bag to melt the chips, ensuring there are no lumps. Repeat in 15-second intervals, massaging after each, until the chips are completely melted and smooth. (If your microwave has multiple power levels, microwave for 1 minute at 60% power and massage at 1-minute intervals). Snip off a tiny bit from one of the bottom corners of the bag to create a small opening, and then drizzle the melted chocolate decoratively over the cooled brownies.
Notes
Tips for Achieving Perfect Fudgy Brownies Every Time
Baking the perfect brownie is an art, but with a few simple tips, you can ensure your Ghirardelli Sweet Ground Chocolate Brownies are consistently fudgy, rich, and absolutely delicious:
- Do Not Overbake: This is the golden rule for fudgy brownies. Brownies can go from perfectly fudgy to cakey in a matter of minutes. Start checking at the lower end of the baking time (20 minutes) and look for a toothpick inserted in the center to come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter, and certainly not clean. A slightly underbaked brownie will set up beautifully as it cools.
- Cool Completely: Patience is a virtue, especially with brownies. Allowing them to cool completely in the pan before cutting is crucial. This helps them set properly, making them easier to cut into neat squares and enhancing their fudgy texture. Warm brownies tend to crumble and can be messy.
- Quality Ingredients: Beyond the Ghirardelli Sweet Ground Chocolate, use good quality butter, fresh eggs, and pure vanilla extract. These foundational ingredients contribute significantly to the overall flavor of your brownies.
- Pan Preparation: The parchment paper sling (as instructed in the recipe) is your best friend. It allows you to easily lift the entire slab of cooled brownies out of the pan, making cutting and serving a breeze without damaging the edges.
- Proper Mixing: Once you add the dry ingredients to the wet, mix only until just combined. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can lead to a tougher, more cake-like brownie texture instead of the desired fudgy richness.
Serving Suggestions & Storage
These Ghirardelli Sweet Ground Chocolate Brownies are incredibly versatile. Enjoy them warm with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream and an extra drizzle of caramel sauce for an ultra-decadent treat. A dollop of freshly whipped cream or a sprinkle of sea salt can also elevate the experience. For a simpler pleasure, they pair wonderfully with a tall glass of cold milk or a hot cup of coffee.
Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, they can be individually wrapped and frozen for up to 2-3 months. Simply thaw at room temperature or gently warm in the microwave for a quick indulgence. These brownies also make a fantastic homemade gift, perfect for sharing with friends, family, or neighbors during holidays or special occasions.
Why Ghirardelli Stands Apart in Your Baking
Ghirardelli has a long-standing reputation for crafting high-quality chocolate products, and their Sweet Ground Chocolate and Cocoa is no exception. Founded in 1852, Ghirardelli has consistently focused on the art of chocolate making, from selecting premium cocoa beans to their proprietary bean roasting and refining process. This dedication results in chocolate with an incredibly intense, complex flavor and a smooth, luxurious texture that elevates any recipe it touches.
Using Ghirardelli products in your baking isn’t just about brand recognition; it’s about investing in a superior flavor. The balanced sweetness and deep chocolate notes in their sweet ground product ensure that your brownies are not just sweet, but truly rich and chocolate-forward. This commitment to quality is evident in every bite of these decadent brownies, making Ghirardelli a trusted choice for bakers who demand the best.
Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting, these Ghirardelli Sweet Ground Chocolate Brownies are an achievable indulgence that promises to impress. Their simple preparation, combined with the exceptional flavor of Ghirardelli’s unique chocolate blend and the delightful addition of caramel, creates a dessert that’s truly unforgettable. So, grab your apron, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake a batch of the best brownies you’ve ever tasted!