Easy French Silk Brownies

Indulge in a layered dessert that combines the rich decadence of brownies with the silky smooth texture of chocolate mousse. These French Silk Brownies start with a fudgy brownie base and are topped with a creamy chocolate French silk layer and finished off with fluffy whipped topping and chocolate shavings. It’s a restaurant-quality dessert made right in your kitchen—easy enough for a weeknight treat, but elegant enough for entertaining.

Why You’ll Love French Silk Brownies

• Rich and decadent layers of chocolate and cream
• Uses simple ingredients and starts with a brownie mix
• No-bake filling means minimal effort after baking
• Make-ahead friendly—perfect for parties, potlucks, or holidays
• Visually stunning with its multi-layered presentation

Ingredients

Brownies

• 1 box brownie mix (not prepared)
• 1 egg
• 5½ tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• ¼ cup milk

French Silk Layer

• 8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, cubed
• 8 ounces Cool Whip

Topping

• 8 ounces Cool Whip
• Chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips (for garnish)

Directions

Bake the Brownies

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Lightly grease an 11×7-inch (2-quart) glass baking dish with non-stick spray.
3. In a medium bowl, combine the brownie mix, egg, melted butter, and milk. Mix until smooth and no lumps remain.
4. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 25–28 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Remove from the oven and allow the brownies to cool completely to room temperature.

Prepare the French Silk Layer

7. In a large bowl, beat together the cream cheese and vanilla extract using a hand or stand mixer until smooth and creamy.
8. Gradually add in the powdered sugar, mixing until fully incorporated.
9. In a small microwave-safe bowl, add the semi-sweet chocolate and cubed butter.
10. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted and smooth.
11. Pour the melted chocolate mixture into the cream cheese mixture and beat until thoroughly combined.
12. Gently fold in 8 ounces of Cool Whip until the mixture is light and fluffy.
13. Spread this French silk layer evenly over the cooled brownie base.

Add the Topping

14. Spread the remaining 8 ounces of Cool Whip over the French silk layer.
15. Garnish with chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips.
16. Chill the assembled brownies for at least 1 hour before slicing.
17. Cut into 12 squares and serve cold.

Pro Tips and Variations

• Use a chocolate bar instead of chips for a smoother, more decadent melted chocolate.
• For added flavor, stir in a splash of espresso to the chocolate layer.
• Swap Cool Whip for homemade whipped cream if preferred.
• Use mini chocolate chips for a fun texture in each bite.
• Don’t skip the chilling time—it helps the layers set for clean slicing.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve chilled as a rich dessert at the end of dinner
• Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or potluck tables
• Pairs beautifully with espresso or coffee
• Add a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a fresh raspberry garnish for a gourmet touch

Storage/Reheating

• Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• These brownies freeze well—wrap tightly in plastic and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
• Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

FAQs

Can I use homemade brownies instead of boxed mix?
Yes! Just ensure you use an 11×7-inch pan and allow them to cool before topping.

Is Cool Whip necessary, or can I use real whipped cream?
Cool Whip provides stability for storage. If using real whipped cream, serve the same day.

Can I add nuts to the brownie base?
Definitely—walnuts or pecans add great crunch and pair well with chocolate.

How long should I chill before serving?
At least 1 hour, but for the best texture, chill 2–3 hours or overnight.

Conclusion

These French Silk Brownies deliver rich chocolate decadence in every bite—from the chewy brownie base to the fluffy mousse-like topping and whipped cream finish. They’re easy to make, elegant in appearance, and the perfect dessert when you want something truly indulgent with minimal effort.

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