Ghirardelli's brownie mixes: A taste test extravaganza
I recently embarked on a journey through the world of Ghirardelli brownie mixes, sampling 11 different varieties and ranking them based on my personal preferences. It was a delightful adventure, and I'm excited to share my findings with you.
The Ultimate Chocolate Experience
Let's start with the winner, the Ultimate Chocolate brownie mix. This one truly lived up to its name. The combination of chocolate chips and chocolate syrup created a rich, decadent treat that was incredibly chocolatey. The chocolate chips added a delightful textural boost, making these brownies incredibly moist and dense. While the difference between the Ultimate Chocolate and the Triple Chocolate was subtle, the Ultimate Chocolate had a slightly richer mouthfeel, making it a close second.
A Classic Favorite: Triple Chocolate
Speaking of Triple Chocolate, it was a close contender for the top spot. These brownies are a classic for a reason. They are rich, dense, and moist, with a gooey texture that is hard to resist. The three types of chocolate chips used in the mix create a delightful contrast, providing a burst of flavor in every bite. While the Ultimate Chocolate had a slightly richer mouthfeel, the Triple Chocolate is a close second and a true crowd-pleaser.
Walnut Brownie Bliss
The Walnut brownie mix took the third spot on my list. Walnuts are a fantastic addition to brownies, and Ghirardelli's mix did not disappoint. These brownies were moist, dark, and rich, with a delightful nutty flavor that complemented the chocolate perfectly. The walnuts added a wonderful texture, and I found myself savoring each bite. While I wished for more walnuts on top, this mix is a sophisticated treat that elevates the classic brownie.
Caramel Walnut Turtle: A Sweet Surprise
The Caramel Walnut Turtle brownies ranked fourth. The visual appeal was impressive, with the caramel drizzling out of the package. However, the caramel tended to sink into the batter, resulting in some overly sweet pockets. The walnuts were a nice addition, but the overall sweetness overwhelmed my palate. If you enjoy a more balanced sweetness, this mix might be a better fit.
Gluten-Free Double Chocolate: A Hidden Gem
The Gluten-Free Double Chocolate mix surprised me with its excellence. These brownies were incredibly moist and had a darker, richer flavor than their non-gluten-free counterparts. The brown rice flour used in the mix didn't overpower the chocolate, and I barely noticed the difference in taste. This mix is a great option for those with gluten sensitivities, and I'd happily choose it over many other mixes on this list.
Dark Chocolate: A Solid Choice
The Dark Chocolate mix was a solid choice, ranking sixth. It was visually promising, but I found it lacked the depth of flavor I expected from a dark chocolate brownie. While it was perfectly fine, it didn't stand out as much as some of the other mixes. However, I'd still gladly eat a few if placed in front of me.
Chocolate Supreme: A Textural Delight
The Chocolate Supreme brownies ranked seventh. The addition of chocolate syrup made a difference in texture, giving these brownies a gooey chewiness. While the flavor was similar to the Double Chocolate, the syrup added a delightful decadence. These brownies are a step up from the Double Chocolate, but still not my top picks.
Double Chocolate: A Balanced Choice
The Double Chocolate mix ranked eighth. It was a balanced choice, with a good amount of chocolate flavor. However, I found it a bit cake-like, lacking the fudgy texture I prefer. It's a solid option if you like your brownies on the cakier side.
Brownie Cookie Bar: A Disappointing Concoction
The Brownie Cookie Bar mix ranked ninth. I found it underwhelming, as the flattened cookie dough sank into the brownie mixture, resulting in an uneven ratio. The cookie dough tasted like a boxed version, and I expected better from Ghirardelli. It's a disappointment, especially for those who love brookies.
Salted Caramel: A Sweet Miss
The Salted Caramel brownies ranked tenth. The salted caramel sauce sank into the batter, leaving no pattern on top. While I'm a fan of salted caramel, it didn't work well in these brownies. The caramel clumped in patches, resulting in overly sweet bites. If you enjoy a sudden sugar rush, this might be your cup of tea.
Milk Chocolate Chip: A Bland Experience
Finally, the Milk Chocolate Chip mix ranked last. I found these brownies bland and unexciting. The milk chocolate flavor didn't stand out, and the chocolate chips didn't add enough to make them memorable. If you prefer milk chocolate, you might enjoy this mix, but I'd recommend trying other varieties first.
In conclusion, Ghirardelli's brownie mixes offer a range of flavors and textures to suit various preferences. From the rich and decadent Ultimate Chocolate to the balanced Double Chocolate, there's something for everyone. While some mixes excelled, others fell short, but overall, Ghirardelli has a solid lineup of brownie mixes to satisfy any sweet tooth.
