Elle Gibson brownie balls are a delightful twist on classic brownies, transforming rich, fudgy chocolate into bite-sized, indulgent snacks perfect for any occasion. These brownie balls work so well because they combine the moist texture of brownies with a smooth, creamy coating, making them easy to share and hard to resist.
Ingredients
- 1 box of high-quality brownie mix (or 1 batch of your favorite homemade brownies, about 9×9-inch pan)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened (optional, for added moisture and tang)
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or vegetable oil (for melting chocolate)
- Optional toppings: sprinkles, crushed nuts, shredded coconut, or cocoa powder
Instructions
- Prepare the brownies: Bake your brownies according to the box instructions or your homemade recipe. Allow them to cool completely, ideally chilling in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Crumble the brownies: Once chilled, break the brownies into small pieces inside a large mixing bowl. Use your hands or a fork to crumble them finely but avoid turning them into powder.
- Add butter and cream cheese: Mix in the melted butter and softened cream cheese into the crumbled brownies. The cream cheese is optional but adds a lovely moist texture and slight tang. Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to combine until the mixture is sticky and holds together when pressed.
- Form the balls: Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it between your palms to make smooth, even balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet or tray. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up before coating.
- Melt the chocolate coating: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted and smooth. Alternatively, melt using a double boiler.
- Dip the brownie balls: Using a fork or toothpick, dip each brownie ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated. Gently tap off excess chocolate and place back on the parchment paper.
- Add toppings (optional): Before the chocolate sets, sprinkle with your choice of toppings like crushed nuts, sprinkles, or shredded coconut for extra texture and flavor.
- Chill to set: Refrigerate the coated brownie balls for at least 1 hour or until the chocolate shell hardens completely.
- Serve and enjoy: Bring to room temperature for a few minutes before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Tips
- Substitution for cream cheese: If you prefer a dairy-free option or want a lighter bite, substitute the cream cheese with 2 tablespoons of Greek yogurt or omit it altogether. The brownies will be slightly less moist but still delicious.
- Using homemade brownies: For best results, use a dense and fudgy brownie recipe rather than cakey brownies, as the texture affects how well the balls hold together.
- Prevent cracking: If your brownie balls crack while rolling, chill the mixture longer or add a teaspoon of milk or cream to help bind the crumbs better.
- Storage advice: Store brownie balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Elle Gibson brownie balls are perfect as party finger food, dessert platters, or a quick sweet snack. Pair them with a glass of cold milk, coffee, or a rich hot chocolate for a comforting treat. They also work beautifully as bite-sized gifts wrapped in cellophane tied with a ribbon.
Variations
- Peanut butter swirl: Fold 2 tablespoons of creamy peanut butter into the brownie crumble mixture for a nutty twist.
- Mint chocolate: Add ½ teaspoon peppermint extract to the melted chocolate before dipping for a refreshing flavor.
- Espresso kick: Mix 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder into the brownie mixture to enhance the chocolate’s depth.
- White chocolate coating: Replace the semi-sweet chocolate with white chocolate for a sweeter, creamier coating option.
Storage and Reheating
Store the brownie balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to maintain freshness and prevent the chocolate coating from melting. For longer storage, freeze the brownie balls on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 3 months. To thaw, place them in the refrigerator overnight. Avoid microwaving to reheat, as it can cause the chocolate coating to soften and lose its texture. Instead, let them come to room temperature naturally for about 15 minutes before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these brownie balls gluten-free?
Yes, simply use a gluten-free brownie mix or homemade gluten-free brownies. Ensure any toppings you use are also gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
Do I have to use cream cheese in the recipe?
No, cream cheese is optional and mainly adds moisture and a slight tang. You can omit it or substitute with Greek yogurt or a non-dairy alternative if preferred.
What’s the best way to melt chocolate for coating?
The easiest method is microwaving in short bursts (20 seconds) while stirring in between to prevent burning. Alternatively, use a double boiler by melting chocolate over simmering water, stirring until smooth.
Can I prepare these ahead of time for a party?
Absolutely. Brownie balls can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator. For longer preparation, freeze them and thaw before the event. Just coat with chocolate close to serving time for the freshest appearance if possible.
How do I prevent the brownie balls from falling apart?
Make sure your brownies are fully cooled and chilled before crumbling. Adding melted butter and cream cheese helps bind the crumbs. If the mixture is too dry, add a small amount of milk or cream to improve cohesion.
Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet?
Yes, dark chocolate works well for coating if you prefer a richer, less sweet flavor. Adjust the amount of coconut oil slightly if needed to achieve a smooth consistency.
Elle Gibson brownie balls are a versatile, crowd-pleasing treat that combines the best of fudgy brownies and chocolate truffles. Their ease of preparation and customizable options make them a go-to dessert for bakers of all levels, ensuring a delicious bite every time.
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