Name: Indulge in Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Cherries (Substitution: frozen cherries work well when thawed.); 1 cup Sugar (Note: coconut sugar can lower the glycemic index.); 2 large Eggs (No substitutions recommended for egg functions.); 5 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (Note: consider swapping for vegan butter if desired.); ⅓ cup Oil (Substitution: olive oil brings a unique flavor.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Using pure vanilla extract yields the best flavor.); ¾ cup All-purpose Flour (Note: a gluten-free flour blend works as a substitute.); ¾ cup Dutch Process Cocoa Powder (Substitution: try unsweetened cocoa powder, but flavor may vary.); 1 tablespoon Cornstarch (No common substitutes are applicable.); 1 teaspoon Salt (Essential, so don’t omit!); 1 cup Semi-sweet Chocolate Chips (For a richer taste, opt for darker chocolate chips or chunks.); 2 cups Cherries (Double the delight when topped on brownies!); 2 tablespoons Sugar (Just enough is needed for a touch of sweetness.)

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As the warm aroma of chocolate fills the kitchen, I can’t help but smile, knowing I’m about to dive into a batch of Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between the deep, fudgy richness of chocolate and the sweet-tart vibrancy of roasted cherries, making it a delightful treat for celebrations or everyday cravings. Not only are they incredibly easy to whip up, but they also elevate brownie night into something exceptional. Imagine serving these beauties warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, creating a cozy moment that feels like a warm hug. Who could resist? Trust me; your taste buds will thank you! Ready to indulge in these decadent brownies?

Why Will You Love This Recipe?

Irresistible Texture: These brownies boast a deeply fudgy base paired with a crinkly top that promises a soft, chewy delight in every bite. Unique Flavor Combination: The roasted cherries add a burst of sweetness and tang that perfectly complements the rich chocolate, making these brownies extraordinary. Effortless Preparation: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, even novice bakers can whip up a batch that looks and tastes gourmet. For a fun twist on your dessert game, consider trying these Chocolate Chip Cookie bars as well! Perfect for Celebrations: Whether it’s a romantic evening or a festive gathering, these brownies elevate any occasion. Crowd Pleaser: Everyone loves brownies, but these take the classic treat to a whole new level, ensuring they’re a hit at your next event!

Ingredients for Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

• Get ready to make delightful brownies that will steal the show!

For the Brownie Batter

Cherries – Adds natural sweetness and vibrant flavor; substitution: frozen cherries work well when thawed.
Sugar – Provides sweetness and helps create the perfect brownie texture; note: coconut sugar can lower the glycemic index.
Eggs – Essential for structure and moisture; no substitutions recommended for egg functions.
Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; note: consider swapping for vegan butter if desired.
Oil – Keeps brownies moist and fudgy; substitution: olive oil brings a unique flavor.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances sweetness and depth of chocolate; using pure vanilla extract yields the best flavor.
All-purpose Flour – Provides structure; note: a gluten-free flour blend works as a substitute.
Dutch Process Cocoa Powder – Key for rich chocolate flavor; substitution: try unsweetened cocoa powder, but flavor may vary.
Cornstarch – Helps achieve a chewy texture; no common substitutes are applicable.
Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor; essential, so don’t omit!
Semi-sweet Chocolate Chips – Contributes melty chocolate pockets; for a richer taste, opt for darker chocolate chips or chunks.

For the Roasted Cherries

Cherries – Roasted to enhance sweetness and flavor; double the delight when topped on brownies!
Sugar – A sprinkle helps caramelize the cherries while roasting; just enough is needed for a touch of sweetness.

These Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies are sure to impress everyone at your table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Roast the Cherries
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, ensuring it fits snugly. Next, place halved cherries on the sheet, sprinkle with sugar, and roast them in the oven for about 10 minutes. Watch for the cherries to soften and caramelize slightly, enhancing their sweetness. Once roasted, set them aside to cool while you prepare the brownie batter.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan
Lower the oven temperature to 325°F (163°C) for baking the brownies. Grab an 8×8 inch baking pan and give it a light spray with non-stick cooking spray. Then, line the bottom and sides with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal after baking. This step is crucial to ensure your Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies come out perfectly without sticking.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, sift together ¾ cup of all-purpose flour, ¾ cup of Dutch process cocoa powder, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Stir the ingredients lightly to ensure an even mix and avoid any lumps. Set this bowl aside, as you’ll incorporate these dry ingredients into the brownie batter shortly.

Step 4: Beat the Eggs with Sugar
In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, combine 2 large eggs, 1 egg yolk, and 1 cup of sugar. Using the whisk attachment, beat the mixture on high speed for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes pale and fluffy. This step is essential for achieving the luscious texture of your Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies, giving them that coveted crinkly top.

Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients
Once your egg mixture is fluffy, add in 5 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter, ⅓ cup of canola oil, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix on low speed until just combined. It’s important not to overmix at this stage; you want the ingredients to blend harmoniously while maintaining a light texture that will elevate your brownies.

Step 6: Fold in the Dry Ingredients
Gently fold the sifted dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a rubber spatula. Be careful to maintain the airiness of the batter; avoid overmixing. Once combined, fold in half of the roasted cherries and 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips, ensuring even distribution throughout the batter for that delicious chocolatey goodness in each bite.

Step 7: Pour and Smooth the Batter
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, using a spatula to smooth the top evenly. This helps ensure an even bake. Bake in the preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for 40 to 50 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center remains slightly underdone—resembling a moist fudgy texture that characterizes your Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies.

Step 8: Cool and Slice
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the brownies cool completely on a wire rack. For easier cutting, place the brownies in the freezer for about 15 minutes. When cooled, gently lift them out using the parchment overhang, slice into squares, and top with the remaining roasted cherries for a delightful presentation before serving.

What to Serve with Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

The perfect meal isn’t complete without joyful accompaniments, and these fudgy delights deserve some delightful companions.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream enhances the chocolatey richness and provides a refreshing contrast to the warm brownies.
Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, whipped cream adds a lovely, airy touch that balances the dense, fudgy brownies beautifully.
Fresh Berries: A medley of fresh strawberries and raspberries brings a burst of tartness and a pop of color, elevating the overall presentation and taste.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling rich chocolate sauce on top adds an extra layer of indulgence, ensuring a chocolate lover’s dream come true with each bite.
Mint Tea: The cool, fresh notes of mint tea offer a soothing contrast to the warm brownies, creating a lovely palate cleanser between bites.
Espresso: Rich espresso complements the chocolate flavor, making for an elegant pairing that’s perfect for coffee enthusiasts looking for a little pick-me-up.
Peanut Butter Drizzle: A warm, swirled peanut butter topping brings a nutty richness that pairs wonderfully with chocolate, creating an irresistible flavor combination.
Homemade Caramel Sauce: Sweet and sticky caramel sauce adds a delightful sweetness and a contrasting texture, making each brownie bite even more spectacular.
Chocolate Hazelnut Spread: A generous dollop of chocolate hazelnut spread won’t just reflect your love for chocolate but also creates a luscious experience with every bite.

Expert Tips for Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

Perfectly Roasted Cherries: Ensure cherries are well-spread on the baking sheet; this promotes even roasting and intensifies their sweetness without steaming.
Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, be gentle! Overmixing can lead to dense brownies instead of the desired fudgy texture.
Check with a Toothpick: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs for perfect fudginess in your Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies.
Cool Completely: Allow your brownies to cool completely before cutting; this helps them set and ensures clean, neat slices.
Use Quality Ingredients: High-quality chocolate and cocoa powder make a difference! Opt for premium brands for the richest flavor, enhancing your brownies’ overall taste.

Storage Tips for Roasted 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 texture and flavor.

Fridge: If you prefer a chilled treat, you can refrigerate the brownies in an airtight container, where they’ll last for up to a week.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the brownies in an airtight container for up to 30 days. Thaw completely at room temperature before serving them again for that freshly baked taste.

Reheating: To enjoy your Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies warm, heat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or until they reach your desired warmth, enhancing their gooey chocolate goodness!

Make Ahead Options

These Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to indulge in your sweet cravings with minimal effort on busy days! You can roast the cherries up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and flavorful. Additionally, you can prepare the brownie batter and refrigerate it (before baking) for up to 3 days. To maintain the quality, make sure the batter is well covered to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to bake, just pour the batter into your prepared pan, bake as directed, and enjoy these delightful brownies with a fraction of the time!

Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies Variations

Feel free to explore these scrumptious alternatives to personalize your brownies and cater to your family’s tastes!

Nutty Twist: Substitute half the cherries with chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. This adds a rich texture and flavor that complements the chocolate beautifully.
Dark Chocolate Delight: Use dark chocolate cocoa powder instead of Dutch process cocoa for a more intense chocolate experience. The deeper flavor will satisfy any chocolate lover’s cravings!
Vegan Option: Swap the unsalted butter for vegan butter and use flax eggs instead of regular eggs for a delicious dairy-free treat. Your friends might not even realize they’re enjoying a vegan dessert!
Fruity Fusion: Incorporate slices of strawberries or raspberries in addition to cherries for a more colorful, fruity bite. Each brownie will burst with a variety of flavors that make dessert time extra special.
Decadent Ganache: Before the final bake, swirl in a layer of chocolate or raspberry ganache for a luxurious treat. This gooey addition will elevate your brownies to a whole new level of indulgence!
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to the batter for a surprising hint of heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness. Your friends will be asking for the secret ingredient!
Minty Fresh: Fold in some mint extract or crushed mint leaves for a refreshing twist. This combination makes for a delightful and unexpected brownie variation — perfect for spring!

And if you’re looking to mix up your dessert menu, consider making some Chocolate Chip Cookie bars or a cozy cup of Pink Hot Chocolate to accompany your brownies. Happy baking!

Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies Recipe FAQs

What type of cherries should I use for the brownies?
Absolutely! Fresh, ripe cherries are ideal for this recipe as they provide the best flavor. When selecting them, look for cherries that are firm, glossy, and deep in color without any dark spots or soft blemishes. Alternatively, frozen cherries work wonderfully; just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before use to prevent excess moisture in your brownies.

How should I store the brownies after baking?
To keep your brownies at their best, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you want to prolong their shelf life, refrigeration is an option as well, allowing them to stay fresh for up to a week. Ensure they’re in a sealed container to avoid drying out!

Can I freeze Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies?
Absolutely! For longer storage, freeze your brownies in an airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 30 days. To freeze, simply cut the brownies into squares, place them in a single layer in the container, and separate layers with parchment paper if needed. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw at room temperature, or pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to warm them up!

What to do if my brownies turn out too dry?
If your brownies end up being dry, it could be due to overbaking or using too much flour. Next time, make sure to check them a little earlier—perfect brownies should have a slightly underdone center! To fix dry brownies, try serving them warm with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce to bring that moisture back. Baking is all about adjustments, so don’t be discouraged!

Are these brownies suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
These Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies can be easily modified for various dietary needs! By swapping semi-sweet chocolate chips for dairy-free options, replacing unsalted butter with vegan butter, and using a gluten-free flour blend, you can create a version safe for those with specific allergies. Just be cautious with any added ingredients, such as sugar, that might not align with certain diets.

How do I ensure a perfect chewy texture?
To achieve that sought-after chewy texture, carefully measure your flour, and avoid overmixing when combining wet and dry ingredients. It’s also crucial to bake the brownies until the edges are set but the center is still a bit soft. Checking for doneness with a toothpick will help ensure you get that fudgy consistency—when a few moist crumbs cling to the toothpick, it’s time to take them out of the oven!

Remember, the right techniques and a bit of love go a long way in creating delicious Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies!