Chocolate Bourbon Brownies with Double Frosting: A Heavenly Indulgence
When I made these Chocolate Bourbon Brownies for my husband, he declared them “the single best thing you’ve ever made for me.” High praise indeed, and it’s easy to understand why. These brownies are not just any dessert; they are a rich and decadent treat, perfect for impressing friends and family at any gathering or simply indulging yourself on a quiet evening at home. Although the recipe may seem involved, each step contributes to an extraordinary flavor and texture that truly makes the effort worthwhile. The dual layers of frosting, with the white frosting reminiscent of Oreo filling and a glossy chocolate glaze on top, elevate these brownies to a level of elegance that is sure to delight anyone fortunate enough to taste them.
Recipe Overview
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 40 minutes |
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 1 hour |
| Category | Bar Cookie |
| Servings | 12 servings |
| Keywords | Dessert, Lunch/Snacks, Cookie & Brownie, Potluck, Sweet, < 60 Mins, Oven |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 523.8 |
| Total Fat | 33.7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 12.7 g |
| Cholesterol | 55.6 mg |
| Sodium | 144.4 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 54.1 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.2 g |
| Total Sugars | 44.1 g |
| Protein | 4.4 g |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sugar | ½ cup |
| Shortening | ⅓ cup |
| Water | 2 tablespoons |
| Vanilla | 1 teaspoon |
| Eggs | 1 large |
| Flour | 1 cup |
| Baking soda | ½ teaspoon |
| Salt | ¼ teaspoon |
| Pecans (chopped) | 1½ cups |
| Bourbon | ¼ cup |
| Butter | 1 cup |
| Vanilla (for frosting) | 1 teaspoon |
| Confectioners’ sugar | 2 cups |
| Shortening (for glaze) | 1 cup |
| Chocolate chips (for glaze) | 1 cup |
Instructions
-
Preheat and Prepare: Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (approximately 163°C). Grease the bottom of a 9-inch square baking pan with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. This will ensure that your brownies release easily once they are baked.
-
Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, shortening, and water. Place the saucepan over low to medium heat and stir constantly until the mixture comes to a gentle boil and the sugar has completely melted. This step is crucial as it creates a syrup that will provide moisture and sweetness to your brownies.
-
Melt the Chocolate: Once the sugar mixture is boiling and smooth, remove it from the heat. Add the chocolate chips and the teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir vigorously until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is silky smooth, creating a rich chocolate base for your brownies.
-
Incorporate Eggs: Allow the chocolate mixture to cool slightly, then beat in the egg. This addition will give your brownies structure and moisture. Make sure to mix until well combined.
-
Add Dry Ingredients: Gently fold in the flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix just until incorporated; overmixing can lead to tough brownies. Finally, stir in the chopped pecans, which will add a delightful crunch and flavor contrast.
-
Bake: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 30 minutes, or until the top is shiny and firm. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.
-
Infuse with Bourbon: Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and immediately pour the bourbon over the top. This step adds depth and a hint of warmth to the flavor profile. Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
-
Prepare the White Frosting: While the brownies are cooling, prepare the first layer of frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together the butter and vanilla extract until creamy and smooth. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar, mixing until the frosting is light and fluffy. This white frosting will complement the rich chocolate base beautifully.
-
Frost the Brownies: Once the brownies are completely cool, spread the white frosting evenly over the top using a spatula. Place the frosted brownies in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes or until the frosting is firm.
-
Make the Chocolate Glaze: For the final touch, melt the chocolate chips and shortening together in a double boiler, stirring until the mixture is smooth and glossy. This chocolate glaze will create a decadent finish that makes these brownies truly irresistible.
-
Glaze the Brownies: Remove the brownies from the refrigerator, and pour the melted chocolate glaze over the white frosting, spreading it gently to cover evenly. Return the brownies to the refrigerator once more to set the glaze, allowing it to harden.
-
Slice and Serve: After the frostings have set firmly, remove the brownies from the pan and place them on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, cut into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for several days.
Conclusion
These Chocolate Bourbon Brownies with Double Frosting are an exquisite treat that combines the richness of chocolate with the warmth of bourbon, creating a dessert that is both comforting and luxurious. The intricate layers of white and chocolate frosting offer a delightful contrast in both flavor and texture, making each bite a celebration of sweet indulgence. Whether you serve them at a potluck, a holiday gathering, or simply as a special treat for yourself and your loved ones, these brownies are sure to leave a lasting impression. Enjoy them with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee for a perfect pairing that complements their rich flavors.
