There’s something irresistible about the rich, fudgy texture of a perfect brownie, and the Ghirardelli Tuxedo Brownie takes it to the next level. Combining the deep, intense flavor of dark chocolate with creamy white chocolate swirls, this recipe delivers a decadent dessert that’s both elegant and comforting. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving a chocolate fix, these brownies never disappoint.
We love how this recipe balances bold chocolate notes with a smooth, velvety finish, making every bite a delightful experience. Using Ghirardelli chocolate ensures top-notch quality and flavor that stands out in every batch. Let’s dive into making these luscious tuxedo brownies that are sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
Ingredients
To create the perfect Ghirardelli Tuxedo Brownie, we carefully select a blend of rich dry and wet ingredients, complemented by the signature tuxedo chocolate chips. Each component plays a vital role in delivering the fudgy texture and balanced flavor that define this dessert.
Dry Ingredients
We combine these dry ingredients to provide structure and richness:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour, sifted for lightness
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably Dutch processed for deep chocolate flavor)
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
These wet ingredients add moisture and the perfect fudgy texture we’ve come to love:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream, for richness and tenderness
Tuxedo Chocolate Chips
The hallmark of this recipe is the blend of Ghirardelli tuxedo chips, which combines bold and smooth chocolate profiles:
| Type | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| 2/3 cup Ghirardelli semi-sweet chocolate chips | For deep, rich chocolate bursts | |
| 2/3 cup Ghirardelli white chocolate chips | Adds creamy sweetness and contrast |
Equipment Needed
To achieve the perfect Ghirardelli Tuxedo Brownie, having the right equipment is essential. This ensures even mixing, baking consistency, and an impeccable texture. Below is a detailed list of the necessary tools and their purposes, helping us streamline the process efficiently.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| 9×13-inch Baking Pan | For an even layer of batter and optimal baking surface. |
| Mixing Bowls | Separate bowls for wet and dry ingredients to avoid clumping. |
| Electric Mixer or Whisk | To blend ingredients smoothly, achieving a fudgy texture. |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | Precise measurements for flawless ingredient ratios. |
| Spatula | To scrape down bowl sides and fold ingredients gently. |
| Saucepan or Microwave-safe Bowl | For melting butter and chocolate chips evenly. |
| Parchment Paper or Non-stick Spray | Prevents sticking and helps with easy brownie removal. |
| Cooling Rack | Essential for cooling brownies evenly after baking. |
“Using the right equipment is half the battle in baking the ultimate Ghirardelli Tuxedo Brownie. It guarantees consistency and helps deliver the dessert’s signature fudgy texture and rich flavor.”
Ensuring we have these tools ready before starting keeps our preparation smooth and the results deliciously consistent.
Prep Work
Before diving into mixing, let’s ensure our workspace and ingredients are perfectly prepared. These key steps guarantee the best results for our Ghirardelli Tuxedo Brownie.
Preheating the Oven
We start by setting our oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating ensures an even baking temperature from the start, which is crucial for achieving the signature fudgy texture of our brownies. Avoid putting the batter in while the oven is still warming; a consistent temperature is key.
| Step | Temperature | Why It’s Important |
|---|---|---|
| Preheat Oven | 350°F (175°C) | Ensures even baking and proper rise |
| Avoid Early Baking | Do Not Place Batter Before Preheat | Prevents uneven cooking and dense brownies |
Preparing the Baking Pan
Proper preparation of the baking pan is essential to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
- Use a 9×13-inch baking pan for the ideal thickness.
- Line the pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy brownie removal.
- Alternatively, generously spray the pan with non-stick spray if parchment is unavailable.
- Lightly dust the pan with cocoa powder instead of flour to avoid altering the brownie flavor.
By prepping the pan this way, we ensure our brownies come out perfectly intact and easy to slice.
Melting the Chocolate and Butter
Our next crucial step involves melting Ghirardelli semi-sweet chocolate chips with butter to create the base for our rich brownie batter.
Method:
- Combine 1 cup (2 sticks) of unsalted butter and 2 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl.
- Melt gently using a double boiler method or microwave in short bursts of 20 seconds, stirring after each.
- Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Allow the melted chocolate and butter to cool slightly before adding eggs to prevent scrambling.
“Melting the chocolate and butter carefully is the backbone of the rich flavor and fudgy consistency that defines our Ghirardelli Tuxedo Brownie.”
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted Butter | 1 cup (2 sticks) | Melted with the chocolate |
| Ghirardelli Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips | 2 cups | Provides rich chocolate base |
This preparation sets us up perfectly to mix our wet and dry ingredients seamlessly.
Directions
Follow these steps to create the perfect Ghirardelli Tuxedo Brownie with a rich fudgy texture and a luscious blend of chocolate flavors.
Mixing the Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted Ghirardelli semi-sweet chocolate chips and melted butter. Stir gently until smooth and glossy.
- Add granulated sugar to the chocolate mixture. Whisk vigorously until the mixture thickens slightly and becomes shiny.
- Beat in eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated for a uniform batter.
- Mix in vanilla extract and sour cream, which add moistness and depth to the brownie’s texture.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Use a spatula to blend just until combined to prevent overmixing. The batter should be thick and rich, signaling the signature fudgy consistency.
Adding the Tuxedo Chips
- Gently fold in the Ghirardelli tuxedo chocolate chips, combining the semi-sweet and white chocolate varieties to create harmonious bursts of flavor throughout the batter.
- Use a spatula to distribute the chips evenly without breaking them down.
Pouring Batter into Pan
- Prepare your 9×13-inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper or lightly spraying it with non-stick spray, followed by a dusting of cocoa powder to prevent sticking.
- Pour the batter into the pan, spreading it evenly with a rubber spatula.
- Tap the pan gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles and level the surface for uniform baking.
Baking Instructions
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Oven Temperature | 350°F (175°C) |
| Baking Time | 30-35 minutes |
| Doneness Test | Insert a toothpick in center; it should come out with moist crumbs but no raw batter. |
| Cooling Time | 15-20 minutes before slicing |
- Place the pan on the middle rack of the preheated oven. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes.
- Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. It should come out with moist crumbs but no wet batter.
- Allow brownies to cool in the pan on a cooling rack for 15 to 20 minutes before slicing. Cooling lets the brownies set and enhances the fudgy texture.
Cooling and Serving
Proper Cooling and Serving are essential to enjoy the full richness and fudgy texture of our Ghirardelli Tuxedo Brownie. Let’s explore how to cool these decadent brownies perfectly and the best ways to serve them.
Cooling Time
After baking, allow the brownies to cool in the pan on a wire rack for 15 to 20 minutes. This resting period helps the brownies to firm up and makes cutting easier without crumbling. For ultimate fudginess, we recommend cooling the brownies completely at room temperature for an additional 30 to 45 minutes before slicing.
| Cooling Stage | Time Duration | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Cooling (in-pan) | 15-20 minutes | Sets brownies, eases slicing |
| Complete Cooling (room temp) | 30-45 minutes | Enhances fudgy texture and flavor melding |
If you prefer chilled brownies, place them in the refrigerator for 1 hour after room temperature cooling; this will yield a dense, indulgent bite. Always remove brownies from the refrigerator about 15 minutes before serving to soften slightly for the ideal mouthfeel.
Cutting and Serving Suggestions
For clean, sharp cuts, use a sharp knife warmed under hot water and wiped dry before slicing. This method prevents sticking and maintains clean edges, showcasing the distinct layers of dark and white chocolate that define the tuxedo style.
We recommend slicing the brownies into 2×2 inch squares for ideal portion sizes. Here’s a simple guideline:
| Pan Size | Suggested Slice Size | Number of Servings |
|---|---|---|
| 9×13 inches | 2×2 inches | 24 squares |
Serve these luscious brownies on their own or elevate them by pairing with:
- A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream
- A drizzle of warm chocolate or caramel sauce
- Fresh raspberries or strawberries for a tart contrast
- A light dusting of powdered sugar for presentation flair
For special occasions, consider serving the Ghirardelli Tuxedo Brownie with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a sprinkle of toasted nuts to add texture and elegance.
Pro Tip: Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week to preserve freshness.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Maximize the flavor and texture of your Ghirardelli Tuxedo Brownies with these make-ahead and storage strategies. Proper handling ensures every bite remains rich and fudgy.
Make-Ahead Instructions
- Bake the brownies fully according to the recipe.
- Allow them to cool completely in the pan for 15-20 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool an additional 30-45 minutes for optimal texture.
- Once cooled, wrap the brownies tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to lock in moisture.
- Store them at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 7 days.
- For longer storage, freeze brownies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
“Allowing brownies to rest after baking deeply enhances the signature fudgy texture characteristic of our Ghirardelli Tuxedo Brownies.”
Reheating Tips
- For a warm, gooey experience, heat individual brownie squares in the microwave for 15-20 seconds.
- Alternatively, warm brownies in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes, wrapped in foil to retain moisture.
Storage Comparison Table
| Storage Method | Duration | Texture Impact | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 3 days | Maintains fudgy, moist texture | Keep tightly wrapped, avoid direct sunlight |
| Refrigerator | Up to 7 days | Firmer texture, rich flavor intact | Wrap tightly to prevent drying |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Slight change, thaw before eating | Wrap individually, thaw overnight at room temp |
Additional Make-Ahead Notes
- When preparing for gatherings, make brownies a day ahead and store in refrigerator; this helps flavors meld beautifully.
- Cut brownies after cooling or chilling for clean, precise slices.
- Store any leftover brownies layered between parchment paper to prevent sticking.
By following these make-ahead and storage tips, we ensure our Ghirardelli Tuxedo Brownies stay luscious and irresistible, ready to delight with every bite.
Conclusion
Mastering the Ghirardelli Tuxedo Brownie means treating yourself to a dessert that’s both indulgent and satisfying. With the right ingredients, tools, and techniques, we can create brownies that deliver that perfect fudgy texture and rich chocolate flavor every time.
Whether for a special occasion or a simple treat, these brownies never fail to impress. Following the recipe and tips ensures each batch turns out beautifully, making it easy to share our love of chocolate with family and friends.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Ghirardelli Tuxedo Brownies special?
Ghirardelli Tuxedo Brownies are special due to their rich, fudgy texture and the unique blend of semi-sweet and white chocolate chips, creating a balanced, decadent flavor with a smooth finish.
What ingredients are needed for the Ghirardelli Tuxedo Brownie recipe?
Key ingredients include all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, salt, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, sour cream, and Ghirardelli tuxedo chocolate chips (semi-sweet and white chocolate).
What equipment is required to bake these brownies?
You’ll need a 9×13-inch baking pan, mixing bowls, electric mixer or whisk, measuring cups and spoons, spatula, a saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, parchment paper or non-stick spray, and a cooling rack.
How do I prepare the baking pan?
Line the 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper or spray it with non-stick spray and dust with cocoa powder to prevent the brownies from sticking.
What is the ideal oven temperature and baking time?
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the brownies for 30-35 minutes until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.
How important is cooling after baking?
Cooling is crucial. Let the brownies cool in the pan for 15-20 minutes, then at room temperature for 30-45 minutes to set the fudgy texture. Refrigeration for an hour is optional for a firmer bite.
How should I store leftover brownies?
Store leftovers wrapped tightly at room temperature for up to 3 days, refrigerate up to 7 days, or freeze for up to 3 months to maintain freshness and texture.
Can I make the brownies ahead of time?
Yes, brownies can be baked ahead, cooled completely, wrapped tightly, and stored. Reheat gently before serving if desired.
What are some serving suggestions for these brownies?
Serve with vanilla ice cream, chocolate sauce, or fresh berries to enhance flavor and provide a delightful contrast to the rich, fudgy brownies.
How do I cut brownies without them crumbling?
Use a sharp knife, wiping it clean after each cut, and ensure brownies are properly cooled to prevent crumbling for neat, even pieces.