Did you know cherries are more than just a delightful summer snack? Their surprising versatility in baking adds a luxurious layer of flavor to treats you might not expect. One of my absolute favorites is the Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies. These brownies are not just a sweet fix; they bring deep chocolate richness, enhanced by plump, roasted cherries that create a chewy, fudgy texture in every inch of the pan.
What I adore about this recipe is its seamless blend of flavors and textures that makes it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, they’re remarkably quick to whip up, perfect for when spontaneous cravings strike! And let’s not forget the heavenly aroma that wafts through your kitchen while they bake—a warm hug that lures everyone in.
Whether you need a dessert for an evening gathering or a sweet escape on a quiet rainy day, these Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies promise a delightful experience. Are you ready to dive into a kitchen adventure that will sweeten your day? Let’s get those ingredients rolling!
Why are Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies irresistible?
Fudgy Perfection: These roasted chocolate cherry brownies deliver an incredibly fudgy texture that's deeply satisfying to bite into.
Bursting with Flavor: The combination of rich chocolate and sweet, roasted cherries creates an unforgettable flavor moment in every bite.
Quick and Easy: With just a handful of simple steps, you can whip these up in no time—perfect for busy days!
Versatile Treat: Feel free to customize with cashews or flaky salt for a unique twist, making this recipe adaptable for your taste.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether for gatherings or a cozy night in, you'll impress family and friends with this show-stopping dessert!
Ready to enhance your baking repertoire? Check out how to make a chocolate raspberry layer cake for more delicious ideas!
Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownie Ingredients
• Get ready to create a chocolate dessert masterpiece with these Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies!
For the Cherry Preparation
• Cherries – Choose fresh, plump cherries for the best flavor; cut them in half, wash, and pit them before roasting.
• Granulated Sugar – Sprinkle this over the cherries; it caramelizes beautifully, enhancing their natural sweetness as they roast.
For the Brownie Batter
• Unsalted Butter – Melt it to add moisture and a rich flavor to your brownies.
• Canola or Vegetable Oil – This provides a tender texture and complements the butter perfectly; you can also use olive oil if you prefer a different flavor.
• Pure Vanilla Extract – A dash of this elevates the brownie flavor, making it irresistible.
• Eggs – Use whole eggs along with an extra yolk for added richness and a chewy texture; beat well to create that signature crinkle top.
• All-Purpose Flour – This is essential for structure—make sure to sift it with other dry ingredients for an even mix.
• Dutch Process Cocoa Powder – This dark cocoa gives a luscious chocolate depth; it's highly recommended for the best results.
• Cornstarch – It contributes to the chewy texture that makes these brownies so delectable.
• Salt – Just a pinch enhances all the flavors in your brownie batter.
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Fold these in for pockets of melty chocolate goodness throughout the brownies.
For the Topping (optional)
• Extra Chocolate Chips – Add these on top for even more chocolatey delight and a comforting finish.
• Additional Roasted Cherries – Reserve some to place on top after baking for a beautiful presentation and burst of flavor.
• Cashews or Flaky Salt – Consider topping with these for a delightful contrast in texture and taste, making your brownies even more special!
Step-by-Step Instructions for Fudgy Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies
Step 1
First, prepare the cherries by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Cut the fresh cherries in half, removing the pits, and spread them out on the baking sheet. Sprinkle a little granulated sugar over them to enhance their natural sweetness. Bake for about 10 minutes, until the cherries have softened and begun to caramelize, then allow them to cool while you prepare the brownie batter.
Step 2
Next, lower your oven temperature to 325°F (160°C) as you prepare your baking pan. Take an 8x8 inch pan and spray it lightly with non-stick spray. For added assurance against sticking, line the bottom with parchment paper, and then spray it again to ensure an easy release. This preparation will help your fudgy roasted chocolate cherry brownies come out perfectly.
Step 3
In a mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, Dutch process cocoa powder, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. These dry ingredients are crucial for achieving the right texture and rich chocolate flavor in your brownies. Set this dry mixture aside, as you will combine it with the wet ingredients in a later step, ensuring ultimate fudginess in your brownies.
Step 4
Now it’s time to make the batter! In a mixer, using the whisk attachment, beat together the granulated sugar, whole eggs, and the extra egg yolk on high speed for about 5 minutes. You're looking for a thick and pale mixture that will create that delightful crinkle top on your roasted chocolate cherry brownies once baked. This step is key to achieving that signature texture.
Step 5
Once the egg mixture is fluffy, melt the unsalted butter and allow it to cool slightly. Add this melted butter to the mixing bowl, along with the canola or vegetable oil and pure vanilla extract. Mix on low speed just until combined, then gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a rubber spatula. Be careful not to overmix; you want to maintain the airiness you've built up.
Step 6
After the batter comes together, gently fold in half of the cooled roasted cherries and all of the semi-sweet chocolate chips. This step adds pockets of chocolate and fruity flavor throughout your fudgy roasted chocolate cherry brownies. The melted chocolate chips will create a delightful surprise in each bite, while the cherries contribute a burst of sweetness.
Step 7
Pour the brownie batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for about 40-50 minutes. Check your brownies when the edges are set but the center is still slightly underdone. It's okay for the middle to jiggle a bit; this will keep your brownies soft and fudgy.
Step 8
After baking, pull the brownies from the oven and sprinkle additional chocolate chips on top for an extra touch of richness. Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan. For an easy release, freeze the pan for about 15 minutes. Once chilled, remove the brownies from the pan and top with the remaining roasted cherries. Cut them into squares and get ready to indulge in these delicious roasted chocolate cherry brownies!
How to Store and Freeze Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies
Room Temperature: Store your brownies in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, ensuring they stay fresh and delicious.
Fridge: If you'd like to extend their life, keep them in the fridge for up to a week. Make sure they are sealed tightly to maintain their texture.
Freezer: You can freeze these roasted chocolate cherry brownies in an airtight container for up to 30 days. Just let them thaw completely before indulging for the best flavor and texture.
Reheating: If desired, reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to enjoy that freshly baked warmth, enhancing the chocolatey goodness.
What to Serve with Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies?
Indulging in these rich, fudgy brownies with bursts of cherry flavor opens the door for delightful pairings that elevate your dessert experience.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy richness beautifully balances the dense brownies, making each bite melt in your mouth. A scoop on the side can also provide a refreshing temperature contrast.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy element that softens the sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the brownies.
- Espresso: The bold, strong notes of espresso contrast wonderfully with the chocolatey sweetness, making it an ideal pairing for coffee lovers.
- Fresh Berries: Serve alongside an assortment of fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries for a pop of tartness that complements the brownie’s rich chocolate and cherry flavors.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle some warm chocolate sauce over the top for those who crave an extra touch of decadence. The extra chocolate will intensify the indulgent experience.
- Mint Tea: A soothing cup of mint tea refreshes the palate and makes for a beautifully balanced dessert experience. The coolness of mint pairs surprisingly well with the warmth of brownies.
- Nutty Brownie Sundae: Top your brownies with crushed nuts and a scoop of ice cream for a fun and textured twist. This combination delivers an exciting variety of flavors and crunch.
Explore these scrumptious pairings to make your Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies the star of the dessert table!
Expert Tips for Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies
Egg Airiness: Ensure you beat the eggs and sugar for a full 5 minutes; this creates the fluffy crinkle top we all love!
Cherry Timing: Only add the roasted cherries on top after baking to avoid making the brownies too moist and losing that fudgy texture.
Cocoa Choice: For a deeper chocolate flavor, stick with Dutch process cocoa powder; it's key to achieving rich, chocolaty brownies.
Watch the Bake: Remember, slightly underbaking is essential. They'll continue cooking while cooling, resulting in perfect fudginess!
Frozen Cherries: If using frozen cherries for your brownies, always thaw and drain them first to prevent extra moisture in the batter.
Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies Variations
Feel free to get creative with these brownies by switching things up a bit—there’s no wrong way to enjoy them!
- Nutty Twist: Add chopped cashews for a crunchy finish that contrasts beautifully with the fudgy brownie base. Your taste buds will love the surprise!
- Flaky Salt Topping: Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top right before serving for a gourmet touch that enhances the flavors of chocolate and cherry remarkably.
- Frozen Cherry Upgrade: Swap in thawed frozen cherries if fresh ones aren't available. They'll add sweetness and a nice burst of flavor to your brownies.
- Olive Oil Option: For a unique taste, substitute the canola or vegetable oil with olive oil. This change can deepen flavor and add richness.
- Cocoa Powder Variation: Experiment with a mix of Dutch process cocoa and dark cocoa powder for a more intense chocolate flavor. Enjoy a bolder brownie experience!
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder for a lightly spiced brownie that'll take your taste to a whole new level of excitement.
- Dried Cherries Alternative: Use dried cherries instead of fresh for a chewy texture and concentrated flavor, perfect for those who love a sweeter bite.
- Chocolate Variations: Switch up the chocolate chips with white or dark chocolate for a different flavor profile, allowing you to play with sweetness and richness.
These variations are just the tip of the iceberg—let your creativity run wild!
Make Ahead Options
These Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the brownie batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. The roasted cherries can also be made ahead and stored separately, allowing for optimal taste and texture. When ready to bake, pour the batter into the prepared pan, fold in the chilled cherry mixture, and bake as instructed. This prep method ensures your brownies are just as fudgy and delicious while providing the convenience you need for busy weeknights!
Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies Recipe FAQs
Can I add fresh cherries to brownie mix?
Absolutely! Fresh cherries add a burst of flavor to your brownies. Just ensure to wash, pit, and cut them in half before mixing them into your batter or roasting them first for a deeper flavor.
How should I store my brownies?
Store your roasted chocolate cherry brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days to keep them fresh. For longer storage, you can keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just make sure they are sealed tightly!
What is the best way to freeze brownies?
To freeze your roasted chocolate cherry brownies, make sure they are completely cooled first. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 30 days. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw completely at room temperature.
Why is my brownie mix too moist?
If your brownie mix turns out too moist, it might be due to excess moisture from the cherries. To avoid this, if using frozen cherries, always thaw and drain them beforehand. Also, avoid adding too much of the juice released during roasting.
Are these brownies suitable for people with nut allergies?
Yes, if you omit any optional toppings like cashews, these roasted chocolate cherry brownies are nut-free and can be enjoyed by those with nut allergies. Always double-check ingredient labels to ensure safety.
What should I do if my brownies are too dense?
To achieve the perfect fudgy texture in your brownies, it's crucial to avoid overmixing after adding the dry ingredients. Also, ensure you're not overbaking them; they should be slightly underdone in the center. If necessary, you can add a little extra oil or butter to improve moisture in the batter.
Indulgent Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies to Satisfy Cravings
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Cut the fresh cherries in half and pit them. Spread cherries on the baking sheet, sprinkle with sugar, and bake for about 10 minutes. Cool while preparing brownie batter.
- Lower your oven temperature to 325°F (160°C). Spray an 8x8 inch pan with non-stick spray and line the bottom with parchment paper.
- Sift together flour, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt in a mixing bowl. Set aside.
- In a mixer, beat together sugar, eggs, and egg yolk on high speed for about 5 minutes until thick and pale.
- Melt the butter and let it cool slightly. Add to the mixer with oil and vanilla. Mix on low speed and fold in the dry ingredients with a rubber spatula.
- Gently fold in half of the cooled roasted cherries and all of the chocolate chips.
- Pour the batter into the pan and bake for 40-50 minutes until edges are set and center is slightly underdone.
- After baking, sprinkle additional chocolate chips on top and let cool completely before removing from the pan. Top with remaining roasted cherries, cut into squares, and indulge.
Nutrition
Notes
- Beat eggs and sugar for a full 5 minutes for a fluffy crinkle top.
- Add roasted cherries on top after baking to keep brownies fudgy.
- Use Dutch process cocoa for deeper flavor.
- Slightly underbake for perfect fudginess.
- Thaw frozen cherries before use to prevent excess moisture.
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