Name: Fudgy Chocolate Cherry Brownies That Melt in Your Mouth
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 125 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Cherries (Fresh, cut in half); 1 cup Sugar (White granulated sugar); 3 large Eggs (Plus one egg yolk); 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (Melted); 1/4 cup Oil (Canola or vegetable oil); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Pure vanilla extract); 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (Can substitute with gluten-free blend); 1/2 cup Dutch Process Cocoa Powder; 1 tablespoon Cornstarch; 1/4 teaspoon Salt; 1 cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips; 1 cup Roasted Cherries (Use the remaining halved cherries after baking)

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As I pulled the batch of brownies from the oven, the rich aroma of chocolate enveloped my kitchen, and I couldn’t help but feel that familiar thrill of comfort. These Fudgy Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies bring together the deep, decadent essence of chocolate with the sweet-tart magic of roasted cherries. Not only are they easy to whip up, making them perfect for spontaneous dessert cravings or special occasions, but they also deliver that irresistible fudgy texture that keeps everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re cozying up on a quiet night or impressing guests at a gathering, these brownies are bound to steal the show. Ready to discover how to make this delightful treat?

Why Are These Brownies Irresistible?

Decadent Flavor: The luxurious blend of chocolate and roasted cherries creates a symphony of flavors that dances on your palate.

Easy to Make: These brownies come together with minimal fuss, making it a breeze to satisfy your sweet cravings, whether for a cozy night in or a festive gathering.

Fudgy Perfection: With their moist, gooey interior, each bite offers the comforting indulgence you desire in a brownie.

Versatile Toppings: Don’t hesitate to get creative! Pair these with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of caramel, or even nuts for an extra crunch, mimicking delightful dessert vibes found in our Chocolate Peanut Butter delights.

Experience the magic of chocolate and cherries today, and you won’t want to miss this delectable journey!

Chocolate Cherry Brownie Ingredients

For the Brownie Batter

Cherries – Fresh, cut in half; these sweet beauties add natural sweetness to your Chocolate Cherry Brownies.
Sugar – White granulated sugar; it ensures a delightful sweetness while helping to form that signature crinkle top.
Eggs – Large eggs and one egg yolk; these act as a binder, creating that airy texture we love in brownies.
Unsalted Butter – Melted; it enriches the brownies, but feel free to swap it with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
Oil – Canola or vegetable oil; it contributes moisture to the brownies, ensuring they remain fudgy.
Vanilla Extract – Pure vanilla extract; it enhances the overall flavor, making each bite absolutely heavenly.
All-Purpose Flour – This provides structure; you can substitute it with a gluten-free blend if needed.
Dutch Process Cocoa Powder – For that deep chocolate flavor; switching to regular cocoa powder may change the taste profile.
Cornstarch – It lends chewiness to the texture and thickens the batter for a perfect brownie finish.
Salt – A sprinkle balances the sweetness, magnifying the flavors beautifully.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – These add delightful chocolatey pockets; consider mixing in dark chocolate for even more depth.

For the Topping

Roasted Cherries – Use the remaining halved cherries after baking; they provide a burst of tangy goodness on top of your fudgy delights!

Indulge in these Chocolate Cherry Brownies to experience a magical combination of flavors that you’ll find hard to resist!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Fudgy Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

Step 1: Roast the Cherries
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the halved fresh cherries in a single layer on a lined baking sheet. Sprinkle them lightly with sugar to enhance their natural sweetness. Roast for about 10 minutes, until they become soft and start to caramelize. Once done, remove them from the oven and set aside to cool while you prepare the brownie batter.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan
Lower the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C). Grab an 8×8-inch baking pan and spray it with non-stick spray. To ensure easy removal of the brownies, line the bottom and sides with parchment paper, allowing some overhang. This step makes it simple to lift the brownies out after cooling, ensuring perfect squares for serving.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, sift together all-purpose flour, Dutch process cocoa powder, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. Whisk them gently to combine, ensuring no clumps remain. This dry mixture helps create the foundation for your fudgy brownies. Set this bowl aside while you move on to mixing the wet ingredients, as this will add the richness needed for the fudgy texture.

Step 4: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate large bowl, beat the sugar, large eggs, and egg yolk on high speed for about 5 minutes. The mixture should become pale, fluffy, and slightly thickened. Gradually add the melted unsalted butter, canola oil, and pure vanilla extract, mixing on low until just combined. This step is crucial for achieving a light and airy consistency in your chocolate cherry brownies.

Step 5: Combine the Mixtures
Carefully fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula until just combined—be cautious not to overmix, as this ensures your brownies stay tender. Gently fold in half of the roasted cherries and semi-sweet chocolate chips, allowing their flavors to meld into the batter without breaking apart. Your delicious fudgy brownie batter is now ready for the pan!

Step 6: Bake the Brownies
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan, smoothing it out with a spatula for an even surface. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-50 minutes. Keep an eye on the edges; they should look set, while a toothpick inserted in the center should come out with moist crumbs. The brownie’s surface will appear slightly crinkled when perfectly baked, hinting at its delicious fudginess.

Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool in the pan completely at room temperature—this can take about an hour. For a quick chill, place them in the freezer for 15 minutes, which makes cutting easier. Before slicing, top with the remaining roasted cherries for a delightful presentation, adding an extra burst of flavor to your Chocolate Cherry Brownies.

Make Ahead Options

These Fudgy Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies are a dream for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can roast the cherries up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Furthermore, the brownie batter can be made and kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to indulge, just pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake as directed—this method ensures you enjoy fresh brownies without the stress of last-minute preparations. To maintain their fudgy quality, avoid overmixing and store them in an airtight container after cooling. Enjoy your delightful Chocolate Cherry Brownies with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Chocolate Cherry Brownies

Whisking Technique: Use a stand mixer or hand mixer with a whisk attachment to achieve a light and fluffy egg mixture, which is essential for the perfect fudgy texture.
Avoid Overmixing: Be careful not to overmix the batter once you incorporate the dry ingredients; this can lead to dense brownies instead of the desired fudginess.
Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your brownies as they bake; they are done when the edges are set but still soft in the center, ensuring a moist brownie experience.
Roasting Wisely: When roasting your cherries, ensure they have enough space on the baking sheet to caramelize evenly, enhancing their natural sweetness and flavor in the brownies.
Chill for Better Slicing: After cooling, refrigerate the brownies for 15 minutes before slicing to attain clean edges and maintain the delightful fudgy center.

Indulge in these tips for the ultimate Chocolate Cherry Brownies that will have everyone asking for seconds!

How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Cherry Brownies

Room Temperature: Store your brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days to maintain their fudgy goodness.

Fridge: If you prefer a slightly firmer texture, refrigerate the brownies in an airtight container for up to 1 week, but allow them to come to room temperature for the best flavor.

Freezer: To keep them longer, freeze the brownies wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil for up to 30 days. Thaw completely before enjoying for the best taste and texture.

Reheating: Warm leftover brownies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a deliciously gooey experience that brings the flavors of chocolate and cherries back to life!

What to Serve with Fudgy Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

Creating a memorable dessert experience is all about the perfect pairings that enhance the rich, chocolatey goodness of these brownies.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic companion, its creamy, cool texture beautifully complements the warm, fudgy brownies, creating a delightful contrast.
Fresh Berries: A medley of strawberries and raspberries adds a refreshing touch, balancing the sweetness and introducing bright, tangy flavors.
Dulce de Leche Drizzle: This sweet caramel-like sauce adds an indulgent touch, with a rich creaminess that elevates the brownies to new heights of decadence.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling extra chocolate sauce over your brownies intensifies the chocolate experience, offering a sweeter bite that chocolate lovers adore.
Espresso: A strong cup of espresso pairs perfectly, cutting through the sweetness and enhancing the rich flavors of the brownies while providing an energizing lift.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of fresh whipped cream adds elegance and a silky texture that perfectly contrasts the dense brownies.
Coconut Cream: For a tropical twist, whipped coconut cream introduces a subtle sweetness and a unique flavor that harmonizes beautifully with the chocolate and cherries.
Mint Tea: A soothing cup of mint tea cleanses the palate and refreshes the senses, making it an excellent drink choice after a rich dessert.
Salted Caramel Sauce: Paired with the brownies, the combination of salty and sweet indulgences creates a gourmet experience that feels truly special.

Chocolate Cherry Brownies Variations

Feel free to get creative with these brownies; there are plenty of delightful twists you can make!

Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that complements the fudginess of the brownies. The added texture creates a lovely contrast with each bite.
Dark Chocolate Indulgence: Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor. This elevates the taste profile, making your brownies more decadent and luxurious.
Fruit Explosion: Experiment with different fruits like raspberries or strawberries to spark a fresh zing in each piece. Their acidity pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the chocolate, creating a delightful balance.
Minty Freshness: Add a few drops of peppermint extract for a refreshing twist that transforms your brownies into a mint chocolate dream. The cool flavor mingles beautifully with the rich chocolate and cherries.
Spicy Surprise: For a daring twist, a pinch of cayenne pepper can add an unexpected heat that intensifies the chocolate flavor. It’s a bold choice that will surprise and delight!
Flour-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a fabulous gluten-free brownie experience. You’ll still achieve that wonderful fudgy texture without any sacrifices.
Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle some homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over the top before serving for extra richness. A warm caramel bath truly amps up the indulgence factor!

For even more inspiration, consider pairing these brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or perhaps serving them alongside our delectable Pink Hot Chocolate. Trust me, the combination will be a hit!

Fudgy Chocolate Cherry Brownies Recipe FAQs

What kind of cherries should I use in my brownies?
Absolutely! Fresh cherries, cut in half, are ideal for this recipe as they add natural sweetness and flavor. If fresh cherries are unavailable, you can use frozen cherries, but be sure to thaw them fully and drain any excess moisture before using to maintain the texture of your brownies.

How should I store the brownies after baking?
For optimal freshness, store your brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to 1 week—but allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste!

Can I freeze these brownies, and if so, how?
Very! To freeze your brownies, allow them to cool completely, then wrap each brownie tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped brownies in an airtight container or zip-top bag for extra protection and freeze for up to 30 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or in the fridge, and they’ll taste just as delightful.

Why did my brownies turn out dense or dry?
It’s important to not overmix the batter once the dry ingredients are added, as this can lead to denser brownies. Keep an eye on your baking time—removing them from the oven when the edges are set but the center is still slightly soft ensures a perfectly fudgy texture. Also, make sure not to open the oven door too early, as this can affect baking.

Are these brownies suitable for people with allergies?
If anyone in your household has allergies, you can easily adapt this recipe! To make it dairy-free, substitute the unsalted butter with coconut oil, and you can use a gluten-free blend in place of all-purpose flour. Always check the packaging on your chocolate chips and other ingredients to ensure they are allergy-friendly.

How can I enhance the chocolate flavor in these brownies?
If you’re looking for a richer chocolate experience, consider using dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet chips for an intense flavor profile. Adding a touch more cocoa powder or a pinch of espresso powder can elevate the chocolate taste, deepening the overall experience of these fudgy chocolate cherry brownies.