Brownies, those squares of chocolatey bliss, are a universally loved dessert. But a lone brownie, however delicious, can sometimes feel like it’s missing something. The question then arises: What does brownie go with? The answer, delightfully, is a lot! This article explores the myriad of delectable pairings that elevate the humble brownie from a simple treat to an unforgettable experience.
The Classic Combinations: Dairy Delights
When thinking about brownie accompaniments, dairy often comes to mind first. The rich, decadent nature of brownies begs for something cool and creamy to cut through the intensity and complement the flavor profile.
Ice Cream: A Timeless Pairing
The most iconic pairing, without a doubt, is brownies and ice cream. The warm, fudgy brownie melting slightly against the cold, smooth ice cream is a textural and flavor sensation. Vanilla ice cream is the classic choice, allowing the brownie’s chocolate flavor to shine. However, don’t be afraid to experiment.
Chocolate ice cream amplifies the chocolate experience, creating an intensely decadent treat. Salted caramel ice cream provides a salty-sweet contrast that is incredibly satisfying. Mint chocolate chip ice cream offers a refreshing twist, cutting through the richness with a cool, minty flavor. Coffee ice cream complements the chocolate beautifully, creating a mocha-like flavor profile. A scoop of strawberry or raspberry ice cream introduces a fruity note, adding brightness and complexity. Consider the type of brownie when choosing your ice cream flavor. A dense, fudgy brownie pairs well with a lighter ice cream, while a cakey brownie can stand up to a richer, more intense flavor.
Whipped Cream: Light and Airy
For a lighter alternative to ice cream, whipped cream is an excellent choice. Its airy texture and subtly sweet flavor provide a delicate counterpoint to the richness of the brownie. A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a touch of elegance and sophistication.
Consider flavoring your whipped cream to further enhance the pairing. A splash of vanilla extract or a hint of cinnamon can elevate the simple whipped cream to a gourmet topping. For a more adventurous flavor, try adding a liqueur, such as Irish cream or amaretto.
Milk: A Comforting Classic
Sometimes, the simplest pairings are the best. A glass of cold milk is a classic accompaniment to brownies, offering a comforting and satisfying combination. The milk’s creamy texture and mild flavor provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, chocolatey brownie.
Chocolate milk is an obvious choice for chocolate lovers, intensifying the chocolate experience. However, regular milk, almond milk, or even oat milk can be equally delightful. Consider the sweetness of your brownie when choosing your milk. If your brownie is particularly sweet, a glass of unsweetened milk can help balance the flavors.
Fruity Friends: Balancing Richness
The sweetness of fruit can beautifully balance the richness of brownies, adding a refreshing and vibrant element to the experience.
Berries: A Burst of Freshness
Fresh berries, such as strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries, are a perfect complement to brownies. Their natural sweetness and slightly tart flavor provide a refreshing contrast to the chocolate’s richness. The vibrant colors of the berries also add a visually appealing element.
A simple scattering of fresh berries on top of a brownie is a simple yet elegant presentation. Alternatively, you can create a berry compote by simmering the berries with a little sugar and lemon juice. The warm compote poured over a brownie creates a delicious and comforting dessert.
Bananas: Creamy and Sweet
The creamy texture and natural sweetness of bananas make them a wonderful pairing for brownies. Sliced bananas can be arranged on top of a brownie, or mashed and used as a topping. For an extra touch of indulgence, try caramelizing the bananas before adding them to the brownie.
Cherries: A Touch of Tartness
Cherries, with their sweet and slightly tart flavor, offer a unique and delightful pairing for brownies. Fresh cherries, pitted and halved, can be arranged on top of the brownie. Alternatively, a cherry compote or cherry pie filling can be used as a topping.
Nutty Nuances: Adding Texture and Flavor
Nuts add a delightful crunch and a subtle nutty flavor that complements the chocolate in brownies.
Walnuts and Pecans: Classic Choices
Walnuts and pecans are classic additions to brownies, and they also make excellent toppings. Their slightly bitter flavor balances the sweetness of the chocolate, while their crunchy texture provides a satisfying contrast to the fudgy brownie.
Toasting the nuts before adding them to the brownie enhances their flavor and aroma. You can also chop the nuts and sprinkle them on top of the brownie, or incorporate them into a homemade nut brittle.
Peanuts: A Salty-Sweet Combination
Peanuts, with their salty and slightly sweet flavor, offer a unique and addictive pairing for brownies. A sprinkle of roasted peanuts adds a satisfying crunch and a hint of saltiness that enhances the chocolate flavor.
Peanut butter is another excellent addition, either swirled into the brownie batter or used as a topping. The creamy texture and nutty flavor of peanut butter create a decadent and irresistible treat. Consider adding a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra layer of indulgence.
Hazelnuts: A Sophisticated Touch
Hazelnuts, with their rich and slightly earthy flavor, add a touch of sophistication to brownies. Toasted hazelnuts, chopped and sprinkled on top of the brownie, provide a satisfying crunch and a complex nutty flavor.
Saucy Sensations: Adding Moisture and Flavor
Sauces can add moisture, flavor, and visual appeal to brownies, elevating them to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Chocolate Sauce: An Obvious Choice
Chocolate sauce is a classic and versatile topping for brownies. It intensifies the chocolate flavor and adds a glossy sheen that is visually appealing.
Consider experimenting with different types of chocolate sauce, such as dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or white chocolate. You can also add a touch of flavor to your chocolate sauce with a splash of vanilla extract, a pinch of cinnamon, or a hint of chili powder.
Caramel Sauce: A Sweet and Salty Delight
Caramel sauce, with its sweet and slightly salty flavor, offers a delightful contrast to the richness of the brownie. A drizzle of caramel sauce adds a touch of elegance and indulgence.
Salted caramel sauce is particularly delicious, providing a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors. You can also add a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the caramel sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
Raspberry Sauce: A Fruity Tang
Raspberry sauce, with its tart and fruity flavor, provides a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the brownie. A drizzle of raspberry sauce adds a vibrant color and a burst of flavor.
You can make your own raspberry sauce by simmering fresh or frozen raspberries with a little sugar and lemon juice. Alternatively, you can purchase a pre-made raspberry sauce from the store.
Beyond the Basics: Unexpected Pairings
While the classic pairings are always a safe bet, don’t be afraid to experiment with more unexpected combinations.
Coffee: A Morning or Evening Treat
The bitterness of coffee complements the sweetness of brownies, creating a delightful and energizing combination. A cup of hot coffee is a perfect accompaniment to a warm brownie, whether enjoyed as a morning treat or an evening indulgence.
Espresso, with its intense flavor, pairs particularly well with rich, fudgy brownies. You can also add a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of cocoa powder to your coffee for an extra touch of indulgence.
Tea: A Soothing Combination
Tea, with its subtle flavors and aromas, offers a soothing and comforting pairing for brownies. A cup of hot tea is a perfect way to relax and unwind while enjoying a delicious brownie.
Black tea, such as Earl Grey or English Breakfast, pairs well with rich, chocolatey brownies. Green tea, with its delicate flavor, complements lighter, more cakey brownies. Herbal teas, such as chamomile or peppermint, offer a caffeine-free alternative.
Spiced Wine: A Festive Indulgence
For a more adult indulgence, consider pairing brownies with spiced wine. The warm spices and fruity flavors of the wine complement the chocolate beautifully, creating a festive and comforting combination.
Mulled wine, with its blend of red wine, spices, and citrus fruits, is a classic choice. You can also try a port wine, which offers a richer and more intense flavor.
Savory Sensations: A Bold Contrast
While brownies are typically enjoyed as a sweet treat, don’t be afraid to experiment with savory pairings.
A sprinkle of sea salt on top of a brownie can enhance the chocolate flavor and create a delightful contrast. Blue cheese, with its pungent flavor, offers a surprisingly delicious pairing. The salty and tangy cheese balances the sweetness of the brownie, creating a complex and satisfying flavor profile. Bacon, crumbled and sprinkled on top of a brownie, adds a smoky and salty flavor that is surprisingly addictive. The combination of sweet and savory flavors is a real crowd-pleaser.
Ultimately, the best brownie pairing is a matter of personal preference. Don’t be afraid to experiment and discover your own favorite combinations. The possibilities are endless! Enjoy the process of exploring different flavors and textures and creating your own unique brownie experiences.
What are some classic pairings that complement the richness of brownies?
Classic pairings for brownies often involve flavors that contrast and enhance their richness. Ice cream, particularly vanilla or chocolate, is a timeless choice. The coldness of the ice cream balances the warm, fudgy texture of the brownie, while the vanilla’s sweetness complements the chocolate intensity. Whipped cream is another excellent option, offering a light and airy counterpoint to the brownie’s density.
Berries, such as raspberries or strawberries, bring a refreshing tartness that cuts through the brownie’s sweetness. Their acidity provides a welcome contrast, preventing the palate from becoming overwhelmed. A dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and visual appeal, while also contributing a subtle sweetness that enhances the overall flavor profile.
Besides sweets, what savory options can be paired with brownies?
While brownies are primarily enjoyed as a sweet treat, some savory pairings can create surprisingly delicious combinations. Consider pairing brownies with a sharp cheddar cheese. The cheese’s tanginess and salty notes can balance the brownie’s sweetness, creating a complex and satisfying flavor experience. A small amount of sea salt sprinkled directly on the brownie can also achieve a similar effect.
Another interesting savory option is to pair brownies with coffee. The bitterness of the coffee cuts through the richness of the brownie, cleansing the palate and enhancing the chocolate flavor. Experiment with different coffee roasts to find your preferred combination, from light and fruity to dark and intense.
How does the type of brownie affect pairing choices?
The type of brownie significantly influences which pairings work best. Fudgy brownies, with their dense and intensely chocolatey flavor, benefit from pairings that offer a contrasting texture or flavor, such as crunchy nuts or tart fruit. These additions help to break up the richness and prevent the brownie from becoming overwhelming.
Cakey brownies, which are lighter and less dense, can handle richer and more decadent pairings. Consider serving them with a scoop of salted caramel ice cream or a chocolate ganache. The lighter texture of the cakey brownie allows these richer flavors to shine without feeling too heavy. Also consider the addition of flavored extracts such as mint to compliment the chocolate flavor.
What beverages pair well with brownies?
A variety of beverages can complement the flavors of brownies. Milk, especially cold milk, is a classic pairing that provides a refreshing contrast to the brownie’s richness. The creamy texture of the milk also complements the fudgy consistency of the brownie, creating a comforting and satisfying combination. Almond milk can be a suitable substitution for those with dairy sensitivities.
Coffee, as mentioned before, is another excellent choice, particularly for dark chocolate brownies. The bitterness of the coffee helps to balance the sweetness and enhance the chocolate flavor. Wine, especially a dessert wine like Port or Sherry, can also pair beautifully with brownies. The wine’s sweetness and complexity complement the brownie’s richness, creating a sophisticated and indulgent experience.
Can spices enhance the brownie pairing experience?
Absolutely, spices can add another layer of complexity and flavor to the brownie pairing experience. Cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom are all warm spices that complement chocolate beautifully. A sprinkle of cinnamon on top of whipped cream or a dusting of nutmeg over ice cream can elevate the pairing to a new level of deliciousness. Some recipes even include these spices directly in the brownie batter.
For a more adventurous pairing, consider adding a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the brownie batter. The subtle heat will contrast with the sweetness of the chocolate, creating a unique and unexpected flavor profile. This is especially delicious when paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to cool down the spice.
How can I create a brownie sundae with perfect pairings?
Creating a brownie sundae offers endless possibilities for delicious pairings. Start with a warm brownie as the base, then add a scoop or two of your favorite ice cream. Classic choices like vanilla, chocolate, or strawberry are always a hit, but don’t be afraid to experiment with more adventurous flavors like salted caramel or coffee.
Next, add toppings that complement both the brownie and the ice cream. Hot fudge sauce, caramel sauce, and whipped cream are classic sundae staples. For added texture and flavor, consider adding chopped nuts, sprinkles, crushed cookies, or fresh berries. The key is to balance the sweetness and richness with contrasting flavors and textures to create a truly memorable sundae experience.
What are some unique or unexpected brownie pairing ideas?
For those seeking unique and unexpected brownie pairings, consider exploring unconventional flavor combinations. Avocado, surprisingly, can be incorporated into brownies for a creamy and decadent texture. Its subtle flavor allows the chocolate to shine while adding a healthy twist. Toppings such as a spicy mango salsa can further enhance the experience.
Another intriguing idea is to pair brownies with balsamic glaze. The glaze’s tangy sweetness and syrupy texture provide a delightful contrast to the brownie’s richness. Drizzling a small amount of balsamic glaze over a slice of brownie can elevate it to a sophisticated dessert. Blue cheese can also be an interesting addition when paired with the balsamic glaze and brownie, if you dare!