There’s something truly special about the mere thought of sinking your teeth into a rich, gooey brownie. Picture this: the warm aroma of chocolate enveloping your kitchen, teasing you as it bakes, promising a delightful indulgence that’s impossible to resist. Recently, during a cozy afternoon in my kitchen, I decided to elevate this classic treat with a silky vegan chocolate ganache that takes these brownies to a whole new level of decadence.

These Vegan Chocolate Ganache Gooey Brownies are a dream come true for anyone craving something sweet yet nourishing. Not only are they easy to whip up, but they also offer that fudgy texture and crackly top that every brownie lover adores. Plus, with no dairy involved, you can indulge guilt-free! Whether for a casual gathering or just a sweet treat at home, these brownies aren’t just desserts; they’re a celebration of flavor that brings joy to every bite. Let’s dive in and get baking!

Why are chocolate ganache brownies irresistible?

Decadence at Its Finest: These brownies boast a rich, fudgy texture that melts in your mouth, creating a dessert experience like no other.

Silky Ganache Delight: Topped with a creamy chocolate ganache, every bite is a burst of indulgence.

Simple & Quick: This recipe is easy and quick, requiring only basic ingredients and minimal prep time.

Guilt-Free Indulgence: Made with plant-based ingredients, you can satisfy your sweet tooth without the dairy. Perfect for anyone trying to eat healthier!

Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night in, these brownies are sure to impress and leave guests asking for more.

Chocolate Ganache Brownie Ingredients

For the Brownies
• Flour – Provides structure to the brownies; you can substitute with gluten-free flour for a delightful option.
• Sugar – Sweetens the brownies; opting for brown sugar gives them a deeper flavor.
• Cocoa Powder – Adds that rich chocolate flavor; be sure to use unsweetened for the best results.
• Salt – Enhances flavor; kosher salt or sea salt works beautifully.
• Vegan Butter – Provides moisture and fat; coconut oil can be a tasty alternative if you prefer.
• Vanilla Extract – Infuses a lovely vanilla flavor; almond extract can provide a delightful twist.
• Soy Milk – Serves as a wet ingredient; almond milk or oat milk makes great substitutes.

For the Ganache
• Dark Chocolate – The star of the ganache; using high-quality chocolate ensures a velvety finish.
• Peanut Butter – Adds creaminess and richness to the ganache; feel free to swap with almond or cashew butter for different flavor notes.

These chocolate ganache brownies promise to deliver a treat that’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare!

How to Make Chocolate Ganache Brownies

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 180°C (356°F) and prepare a small baking tray (15cm) by lining it with baking paper and greasing it lightly to ensure easy removal later.
Melt the butter: In a saucepan over low heat, gently melt the vegan butter. Once it’s melted, stir in the soy milk, sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined. Add 150g of dark chocolate and stir until it’s smoothly melted and incorporated.
Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. This will help create a smooth brownie batter without any lumps.
Combine wet and dry: Pour the melted mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Mix until everything is smooth and well incorporated, avoiding over-mixing for those gooey brownies!
Bake the brownies: Pour the batter into the prepared baking tray and place it into the oven. Bake for 20 minutes until the top is crackly and some crumbs stick to a toothpick when inserted.
Cool down: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the tray before making the ganache, as this helps achieve the perfect, gooey texture without melting the topping.
Prepare the ganache: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the remaining chocolate and mix in the peanut butter until it’s beautifully creamy. Pour this luscious ganache over the cooled brownies, ensuring even coverage.
Chill to set: Place the brownies in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to set the ganache properly, turning it into a decadent dream!
Serve and enjoy: Cut the brownies into squares, sprinkle with flaky salt if desired, and serve them with a warm smile—they’re guaranteed to impress!

Optional: Serve warm with a scoop of vegan ice cream for an extra special treat.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Storage Tips for Chocolate Ganache Brownies

Room Temperature: Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4-5 days to maintain their fudgy texture.

Fridge: If you prefer a chilled treat, these brownies can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

Freezer: For longer preservation, wrap individual brownie squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy them warm, simply microwave a brownie for 10-15 seconds or until warmed through, allowing that gooey chocolate ganache to melt again!

Chocolate Ganache Variations

Discover delightful twists for your brownies that will elevate their flavor and texture!

Nut Butter Alternatives: Swap peanut butter with almond or cashew butter to create unique flavor profiles in your ganache. It’s an exciting way to adapt this classic dessert!
Minty Fresh: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the brownie batter or sprinkle crushed peppermint candy on top for a festive flair. The cool mint will surprise your taste buds!
Spiced Up: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder for a warm, spicy kick. It adds an unexpected depth to the chocolate, making each bite excitingly complex.
Add Chocolate Chips: Fold in chocolate chips into the brownie batter before baking for extra chocolaty bites. It creates a delightful contrast with the fudgy texture!
Fruit Fusion: Incorporate mashed banana or applesauce in the batter for added moisture and a touch of natural sweetness. It enhances the brownies while keeping them plant-based.
Coffee Buzz: Stir in a tablespoon of brewed espresso or instant coffee granules to the batter for a richer chocolate flavor. It intensifies the chocolate without overpowering it!
Crunchy Surprise: Top the ganache with crushed nuts or seeds for an added crunch. Nuts like walnuts or pecans can enhance the texture beautifully.
Fruity Topping: Drizzle your brownies with a fruity sauce like raspberry or strawberry for a fresh contrast. The tartness will balance the chocolate’s richness wonderfully!

Tips for the Best Chocolate Ganache Brownies

Sweetness Level: Use brown sugar for a deeper flavor that complements the chocolate beautifully. This adds richness to your brownies.
Baking Time: Avoid overbaking! Check for doneness at 20 minutes; you want a gooey center for that ultimate fudgy texture.
Cooling Matters: Allow brownies to cool completely before adding ganache; this prevents the ganache from sliding off and creates a perfect finish.
Choose Quality Chocolate: The quality of your dark chocolate affects the ganache’s flavor. Opt for at least 60% cocoa for the richest taste.
Flavor Variations: Try different nut butters in the ganache—almond or cashew butter can create unique flavor profiles while complementing the chocolate nicely.
Storage Tips: Keep the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their gooey texture longer; they’re irresistible even after a few days!

Make Ahead Options

These Vegan Chocolate Ganache Gooey Brownies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the brownie base up to 24 hours in advance by baking it and letting it cool completely. Once cooled, simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain its fudgy texture. The ganache can also be made ahead; prepare it and pour over the brownies when ready to serve. For the best quality, chill the brownies with the ganache for at least one hour before slicing into squares. With these make-ahead options, you’ll have indulgent, decadent brownies ready to impress at a moment’s notice!

What to Serve with Chocolate Ganache Gooey Brownies?

Treat your tastebuds to an unforgettable experience by pairing these indulgent brownies with complementary sides or beverages.

Vegan Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vegan ice cream on the side adds a cool contrast to the warm, rich brownies—perfect for balancing textures.
Fresh Berries: Seasonal berries like raspberries or strawberries provide a bright, tangy flavor that cuts through the sweetness, enhancing every chocolatey bite.
Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy coconut whipped cream adds an airy touch, allowing the fudgy brownies to shine while bringing a mild sweetness that’s irresistible.
Mint Tea: This soothing beverage helps cleanse your palate after each decadent brownie, making each morsel feel fresh and exciting.
Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: For the true chocolate lovers, enhance the brownie experience with a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce—because you can never have too much chocolate!
Espresso: A shot of rich espresso intensifies the chocolate flavor, providing a luxurious pairing that warms you from the inside out. Enjoy with friends as a delightful after-dinner treat!
Powdered Sugar Dusting: A simple dusting of powdered sugar makes for a beautiful presentation while adding a light sweetness on top of the rich ganache.
Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of vegan caramel sauce adds another layer of sweetness and richness, taking the brownies to gourmet status.

With these delightful pairings, your ganache brownies will transform from simply delicious to an unforgettable feast for the senses!

Chocolate Ganache Gooey Brownies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right chocolate for the ganache?
Absolutely, selecting high-quality chocolate makes all the difference! Look for dark chocolate with at least 60% cocoa content. This ensures a rich, decadent flavor that pairs beautifully with the brownies. Brands like Ghirardelli or Callebaut are excellent choices.

Can I store these brownies in the fridge?
Yes! You can keep them in the refrigerator for up to 7 days in an airtight container. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture!

Can I freeze chocolate ganache brownies?
Very! To freeze, wrap each brownie square individually in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re craving a treat, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge or microwave them for about 10-15 seconds to enjoy that gooey goodness fresh.

What should I do if my brownies are too dry?
If your brownies turned out dry, it might be due to overbaking. To fix this in the future, keep an eye on the baking time; they should be taken out when a toothpick has a few moist crumbs sticking to it, not completely clean. If you have dry brownies now, try serving them warm with a scoop of vegan ice cream to add moisture and richness!

Are these brownies suitable for those with nut allergies?
If you’re making these brownies for someone with a nut allergy, you can simply replace the peanut butter in the ganache with sunflower seed butter or omit it entirely. The brownies will still be deliciously indulgent without the nuts!

How long do the brownies stay fresh?
Stored properly, these chocolate ganache brownies will maintain their gooey texture for about 4-5 days at room temperature. Just keep them in an airtight container for the best results!