Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make – Uses a simple boxed brownie mix as a base.
- Luxuriously Creamy – The French silk topping is smooth, light, and chocolatey.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Ideal for parties, gatherings, or just satisfying a sweet craving.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Brownies:
- 1 box brownie mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)
For the French Silk Layer:
- 1 semi-sweet chocolate bar (Baker’s Chocolate recommended)
- 1 egg
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- ¼ cup milk
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 container Cool Whip (or store-brand whipped topping)
Directions
1. Bake the Brownies
- Prepare the brownie mix according to the package instructions.
- Pour into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and bake as directed.
- Let cool completely before adding the French silk layer.
2. Make the French Silk Layer
- Melt the chocolate bar in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the butter, egg, and milk together until combined.
- Add the melted chocolate and mix well.
- In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Combine the chocolate mixture with the cream cheese mixture and beat until fully incorporated.
3. Assemble the Brownies
- Spread the French silk layer evenly over the cooled brownies.
- Gently fold the Cool Whip over the top, spreading evenly.
4. Chill & Serve
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the layers to set.
- Slice into squares and serve chilled.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12-16 brownies
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: Varies (per brownie mix instructions)
- Chilling time: 2 hours
- Total time: ~2 hours 30 minutes
Variations
- Chocolate Drizzle – Add a drizzle of melted chocolate or chocolate syrup on top before serving.
- Nutty Crunch – Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the French silk layer.
- Oreo Version – Crush Oreos and fold them into the whipped topping for extra crunch.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before serving.
FAQs
Can I use homemade brownies instead of a boxed mix?
Absolutely! If you prefer homemade brownies, go for it. Just make sure they are fully cooled before adding the French silk layer.
Is it safe to eat the raw egg in the French silk layer?
The raw egg in this recipe may be a concern for some. To make it safer, you can use pasteurized eggs or omit the egg entirely.
Can I use fresh whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Yes! Beat 1 cup of heavy whipping cream with 2 tablespoons powdered sugar until stiff peaks form, then use it as a substitute.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes! It’s actually better when made ahead since the flavors meld together. Just store it in the fridge until ready to serve.
What’s the best way to cut these brownies cleanly?
Use a sharp knife, and wipe it clean between each cut for neat squares.
Can I make these brownies without cream cheese?
Yes, but the texture will be slightly different. You can substitute Greek yogurt or mascarpone cheese for a similar creamy texture.
What can I serve with these brownies?
They pair well with a glass of milk, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or fresh berries.
How do I make the brownies extra fudgy?
Use butter instead of oil in the brownie mix, and add an extra egg for a richer texture.
Can I add toppings?
Absolutely! Try shaved chocolate, chocolate chips, or cocoa powder for a fancy finish.
Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet?
Yes! Dark chocolate gives a more intense, rich flavor.
Conclusion
French Silk Brownies are the perfect combination of fudgy brownies and silky smooth chocolate mousse, making them an irresistible dessert for any occasion. Whether you serve them at a party or enjoy them as a special treat, they’re guaranteed to be a chocolate lover’s dream! Try this recipe today and indulge in every bite.
French Silk Brownies
- Total Time: ~2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 12-16 Servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These French Silk Brownies combine rich, fudgy brownies with a smooth, creamy chocolate silk layer for an indulgent dessert. Perfect for parties, holidays, or a special treat, this easy recipe uses a boxed brownie mix and a luscious homemade French silk topping.
Ingredients
For the Brownies:
- 1 box brownie mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)
For the French Silk Layer:
- 1 semi-sweet chocolate bar (Baker’s Chocolate recommended)
- 1 egg
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¼ cup milk
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 container Cool Whip (or store-brand whipped topping)
Instructions
- Bake the Brownies:
- Prepare brownie mix according to package instructions.
- Pour into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and bake as directed.
- Let cool completely.
- Make the French Silk Layer:
- Melt chocolate bar in 30-second intervals in the microwave, stirring in between.
- In a mixing bowl, beat butter, egg, and milk until combined. Add melted chocolate and mix well.
- In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Combine the two mixtures and beat until fully incorporated.
- Assemble the Brownies:
- Spread the French silk layer evenly over the cooled brownies.
- Gently fold and spread Cool Whip over the top.
- Chill & Serve:
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing and serving chilled.
Notes
- Chocolate Drizzle: Add melted chocolate or chocolate syrup on top before serving.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture.
- Oreo Version: Fold crushed Oreos into the whipped topping for extra crunch.
- Egg-Free Option: Use pasteurized eggs or omit the egg if concerned about raw eggs.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: Varies (per brownie mix instructions)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
