Name: Ghirardelli Stuffed Brownie Sundaes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 4 ounces unsweetened chocolate (coarsely chopped); 3/4 cup unsalted butter (cut into cubes); 1 cup granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 12 pieces Ghirardelli Milk & Caramel SQUARES; Vanilla bean ice cream; Salted caramel sauce; Chocolate sauce; Whipped cream; Maraschino cherries; Additional Ghirardelli Milk & Caramel SQUARES (for decoration)

Indulging in a Ghirardelli Stuffed Brownie Sundae is akin to taking a bite of pure bliss. Imagine rich, fudgy brownies studded with decadent Ghirardelli Milk & Caramel SQUARES, topped with creamy vanilla bean ice cream, luscious salted caramel sauce, and a drizzle of chocolate sauce. Each spoonful is a delightful fusion of textures and flavors that will have you swooning. This dessert is perfect for celebrations, gatherings, or simply to treat yourself after a long day. Let’s dive into the details of making these irresistible sundaes!

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

When it comes to dessert, few things can rival the combination of brownies and ice cream, especially when Ghirardelli chocolate is involved. This recipe is a keeper for several reasons:

– The brownies are incredibly fudgy and rich, thanks to the unsweetened chocolate and butter.
– Ghirardelli Milk & Caramel SQUARES add an unexpected burst of flavor and gooey texture.
– It’s an easy recipe that doesn’t require any special skills, making it accessible for bakers of all levels.
– It’s versatile! You can customize your sundae with your favorite toppings, making it perfect for any occasion.

Gather These Ingredients

To make Ghirardelli Stuffed Brownie Sundaes, gather the following ingredients:

4 ounces unsweetened chocolate, coarsely chopped
3/4 cup unsalted butter, cut into cubes
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup all-purpose flour
12 Ghirardelli Milk & Caramel SQUARES

For garnishing, you will need:

Vanilla bean ice cream
Salted caramel sauce
Chocolate sauce
Whipped cream
Maraschino cherries
Additional Ghirardelli Milk & Caramel SQUARES for decoration

Setup & Equipment

Before you start baking, make sure you have the following equipment ready:

Oven – preheated to 350°F (175°C)
9×9 inch baking pan – for the brownies
Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl – for melting chocolate
Mixing bowls – for combining ingredients
Whisk and spatula – for mixing
Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate measurements
Cooling rack – for cooling the brownies

How to Prepare Ghirardelli Stuffed Brownie Sundaes

Follow these simple steps to create your Ghirardelli Stuffed Brownie Sundaes:

Step 1: Melt the Chocolate and Butter

In a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl, combine the coarsely chopped unsweetened chocolate and cubed unsalted butter. Heat gently, stirring frequently until the mixture is completely melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat; chocolate can burn easily.

Step 2: Mix the Sugar and Eggs

In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and the melted chocolate mixture. Stir until well combined. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the pure vanilla extract and salt until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Incorporate the Flour

Gently fold in the all-purpose flour using a spatula, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to dense brownies. The batter should be thick and glossy.

Step 4: Prepare the Baking Pan

Grease your 9×9 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.

Step 5: Add the Ghirardelli SQUARES

Take the 12 Ghirardelli Milk & Caramel SQUARES and place them evenly over the brownie batter in the pan. Pour the remaining brownie batter over the SQUARES, spreading it out gently to cover them completely.

Step 6: Bake the Brownies

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking to keep the brownies fudgy.

Step 7: Cool and Prepare for Serving

Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool in the pan on a cooling rack for about 15-20 minutes. Once cool enough to handle, remove the brownies from the pan and allow them to cool completely on the rack.

Step 8: Assemble the Sundaes

Once the brownies are completely cooled, cut them into squares. Place a warm brownie square in a serving dish, top it with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, and drizzle with salted caramel sauce and chocolate sauce. Add a generous dollop of whipped cream, a maraschino cherry on top, and finish with an extra Ghirardelli Milk & Caramel SQUARE for an elegant touch.

Quick Replacement Ideas

If you find yourself short on some ingredients or want to make a few tweaks, here are some quick replacements:

Unsweetened chocolate – substitute with 1/2 cup cocoa powder and 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil.
Unsalted butter – use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative.
Granulated sugar – replace with brown sugar for a deeper flavor or coconut sugar for a healthier option.
Vanilla extract – use almond extract for a different flavor profile.

What Could Go Wrong

When making Ghirardelli Stuffed Brownie Sundaes, a few things could go awry:

Overbaking the brownies can lead to a dry texture. Keep an eye on the baking time and check for doneness early.
Not melting the chocolate properly can result in a gritty texture. Make sure to melt chocolate gently and avoid overheating.
Using too much flour can make your brownies cakey instead of fudgy. Measure accurately and avoid packing the flour.
If the brownies are too warm when assembling the sundaes, the ice cream may melt too quickly. Allow them to cool completely before serving.

Best Ways to Store

To keep your Ghirardelli Stuffed Brownie Sundaes fresh, consider the following storage tips:

Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, wrap brownies tightly in plastic wrap and place them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Assembled sundaes are best eaten immediately, but you can store the components separately (brownies in one container, toppings in another) and assemble them when ready to serve.
For freezing, cut brownies into squares, wrap them in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.

Questions People Ask

Can I make the brownie batter ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the brownie batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just allow it to come to room temperature before spreading it in the pan for baking.

What can I do with leftover brownie pieces?

Leftover brownie pieces can be used in various ways! Crumble them over ice cream, mix them into a milkshake, or use them to make a trifle with whipped cream and fruits.

Can I use different types of chocolate?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with dark chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate if you prefer a different flavor. Just keep in mind that this may alter the sweetness of the brownies slightly.

How do I know when the brownies are done baking?

The best way to check for doneness is to insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they are ready. If it comes out clean, they may be overbaked.

In Closing

Creating Ghirardelli Stuffed Brownie Sundaes is a delightful way to indulge in a chocolate lover’s dream. The combination of fudgy brownies and creamy ice cream, with the added richness of Ghirardelli chocolate, makes it a dessert to remember. With its straightforward preparation and customizable toppings, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet evening at home, these sundaes are sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth with these decadent treats!