There’s nothing quite like the moment when you take your first bite of a fudgy brownie, and the flavors of rich chocolate and tart cherries envelop your senses. Last week, I decided to elevate my standard brownie recipe with the addition of roasted cherries, and let me tell you, the result was nothing short of a revelation. These Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies offer a perfect harmony of sweetness and tartness, making them a treat you’ll want to keep on repeat.
With a texture that’s irresistibly dense and a chocolatey richness that feels utterly indulgent, this easy-to-make dessert is destined to be the star of any gathering. Imagine serving these warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream while your friends and family rave about your baking skills! Whether you’re looking to impress at a potluck or simply satisfy your own sweet cravings after a long day, these fudgy brownies with their burst of roasted cherry goodness will surely do the trick. Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite dessert!
Why are Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies a must-try?
Decadent Delight: These brownies combine the richness of chocolate with the tart freshness of roasted cherries, creating an unforgettable flavor experience.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip these up without culinary expertise.
Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Perfect for gatherings, they’ll impress friends and family alike, making you the star of any event.
Versatile Treat: Customize with nuts or different chocolate types for endless variations.
Perfectly Fudgy Texture: Enjoy a dense, moist brownie that delivers a delightful, melt-in-your-mouth sensation.
Elevate your dessert game and try these delightful treats for yourself!
Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies Ingredients
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For the Brownies
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Cherries – Fresh, cut in half; these provide the perfect tartness that balances the sweetness of the brownie. Substitute: Frozen cherries (thaw and drain).
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Sugar – White granulated; sweetens and contributes to that delectable fudgy texture.
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Eggs – Large; they add structure and moisture, making the brownies rich. Use free-range or organic if preferred.
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Egg Yolk – Adds an extra layer of richness; no substitutions with egg whites as it changes the texture.
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Unsalted Butter – Melted; essential for a lush flavor and density. Can substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
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Oil (Canola or Vegetable) – Keeps brownies moist; can replace with melted coconut oil or olive oil for added health benefits.
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Vanilla Extract – Pure; elevates the overall flavor profile of the brownies. Choose high-quality vanilla for the best results.
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All-Purpose Flour – Provides the necessary structure; no substitute for gluten-free baking.
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Dutch Process Cocoa Powder – Offers a deep chocolate flavor; avoid substitutions to retain optimal taste.
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Cornstarch – Adds tenderness and moisture; crucial for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
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Salt – Balances sweetness perfectly; no substitute is recommended.
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Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – For added chocolate richness; feel free to use dark chocolate or your favorite chocolate chips.
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For the Topping
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Roasted Cherries – Enhanced roasted flavor provides a beautiful, vibrant finish; top your brownies with these for added charm!
These Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies will surely become a cherished recipe in your home, highlighting every gathering with their delightful blend of chocolate and cherry without fuss!
How to Make Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies
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Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent cherries from sticking. -
Roast Cherries:
Place the halved cherries cut-side up on the lined baking sheet, sprinkle with sugar, and roast for about 10 minutes until they soften and release their juices. Let them cool after roasting. -
Prepare Baking Pan:
Lower the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan with non-stick spray and line it with parchment paper for easy removal. -
Sift Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt. This ensures no lumps and creates a fine texture; set aside. -
Mix Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the sugar, eggs, and egg yolk on high speed for about 5 minutes until the mixture is pale and fluffy—this is key for that crinkle top! -
Combine Wet Ingredients:
Add the melted unsalted butter, oil, and vanilla extract to the egg mixture, mixing gently on low speed until just combined. -
Fold in Dry Ingredients:
Carefully fold the sifted dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula until just incorporated. Avoid overmixing to maintain fudginess. -
Add Cherries and Chocolate Chips:
Gently fold in half of the roasted cherries and all the semi-sweet chocolate chips, ensuring an even distribution throughout the batter. -
Pour Batter:
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula. This helps achieve an even bake. -
Bake Brownies:
Bake in the preheated oven for 40-50 minutes. The edges should be set while the center remains slightly underdone for that fudgy consistency. -
Cool and Slice:
Let the brownies cool in the pan before freezing for about 15 minutes. This makes them easier to slice. Top with remaining roasted cherries before serving.
Optional: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra touch of indulgence.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies Variations
Feel free to take these brownies to the next level with your unique touches!
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Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a delightful crunch and extra flavor bits in every bite.
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White Chocolate Swap: Replace semi-sweet chocolate chips with white chocolate chips for a creamy, sweet contrast to the cherry tartness.
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Cherry Chocolate Swirl: Mix some cherry puree into the brownie batter before baking for a beautiful marbled effect and intensified cherry flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the batter for a surprising hint of heat that complements the sweetness perfectly.
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Minty Fresh: Fold in chopped fresh mint or a few drops of mint extract for a refreshing flavor twist that pairs beautifully with chocolate and cherry.
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Bourbon Infusion: A tablespoon of bourbon in the batter can add a rich depth of flavor, making your brownies even more indulgent.
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Vegan Delight: Use flax eggs in place of the eggs and coconut oil instead of butter to create a completely plant-based version that retains all the fudginess.
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Zesty Orange: Grate some orange zest into the batter for a citrusy twist that brightens the chocolate and cherry flavor profile.
Let your creativity soar, and enjoy making these brownies uniquely yours!
What to Serve with Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies?
Imagine serving up these delightful brownies alongside complementary dishes that enhance their rich chocolate and vibrant cherry flavors.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of smooth vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast to the warm, fudgy brownies, adding creaminess and cooling down the sweetness.
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Fresh Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream balances the density of the brownies, creating a beautiful fluffy topping that elevates every bite.
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Fruit Compote: A tart cherry or mixed berry compote beautifully mirrors the flavors in the brownies, providing a fruity freshness that excites the palate.
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Espresso or Coffee: The deep, robust flavors of espresso or freshly brewed coffee pair wonderfully with the chocolate, enhancing your dessert experience while stimulating your senses.
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Chocolate Ganache: A drizzle of rich chocolate ganache on top takes indulgence to another level, amplifying the chocolatey goodness and creating a decadent presentation.
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Nutty Caramel Sauce: A warm, nutty caramel sauce drizzled on top adds a sweet and salty contrast, making each bite a delightful adventure.
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Chocolate Stout Beer: Serve these brownies alongside a chocolate stout beer. The malty flavor enhances the chocolate and adds an unexpected beverage twist to your dessert.
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Chilled Coconut Milk: For a unique pairing, a small glass of chilled coconut milk offers a creamy, tropical contrast to the tart cherries.
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Cheesecake Swirls: For a double dessert treat, serve the brownies with a side of cheesecake swirls for a creamy, tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the chocolate and cherries.
Make Ahead Options
These Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies are a fantastic choice for meal prep, offering delectable convenience for busy weeknights! You can roast the cherries up to 24 hours in advance—simply spread the halved cherries on a baking sheet, sprinkle with sugar, roast, and then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The brownie batter can be prepared and refrigerated for up to 3 days, though it’s crucial to cover it well to prevent it from drying out. When you’re ready to bake, allow the batter to come to room temperature, pour it into the pan, and then add the roasted cherries before baking. This simple prep not only saves time but ensures your brownies are just as delicious as when made fresh!
How to Store and Freeze 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.
Refrigerator: To enhance the flavors, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just make sure they are wrapped well to prevent drying out.
Freezer: These delicious Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies can be frozen for up to 30 days. Wrap them individually or in slices with plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag for easy access.
Reheating: To enjoy a warm brownie, microwave for 10-15 seconds and top with a fresh scoop of ice cream for an indulgent treat!
Expert Tips for Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies
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Sifting Matters: Sift your dry ingredients like flour and cocoa powder to prevent lumps, ensuring a smoother, fudgier brownie texture.
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Egg Beating: Beat the sugar, eggs, and egg yolk until pale and fluffy—this is essential for achieving the classic crinkle top on your brownies.
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Avoid Topping Mistakes: Don’t add the topping cherries before baking; doing so can introduce excess moisture, resulting in a less desirable texture.
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Cooling Technique: Let the brownies cool in the pan and chill for 15 minutes before slicing; this helps maintain their shape and makes cutting easier.
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Storage Tips: Store your Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 30 days to preserve freshness.
Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe cherries for my brownies?
Absolutely! Look for cherries that are plump, firm, and have a vibrant color. Avoid those with dark spots or blemishes, as they may be overripe or damaged. If fresh cherries aren’t available, you can substitute with frozen cherries; just be sure to thaw and drain them well before use.
How should I store my brownies after baking?
Very good question! Store your Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for about a week, which can actually intensify the flavors. Just make sure they’re well wrapped to prevent drying out.
Can I freeze Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies? If so, how?
Yes, indeed! You can freeze these brownies for up to 30 days. To freeze, wrap them individually or slice them and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place the wrapped brownies in a freezer-safe bag or container. For serving, simply take them out and microwave for 10-15 seconds to enjoy a warm, fudgy bite.
What should I do if my brownies turn out too cakey or dry?
If you’re finding your brownies aren’t as fudgy as you’d like, it might be due to overbaking. Always keep an eye on them, and remember that the center should be slightly underdone when you take them out. If your brownies come out too dry, they might have been baked for too long or the oven temperature was too high. Adjust your baking time or temperature next time for that perfect fudgy texture!
Are these brownies suitable for people with nut allergies?
While this recipe doesn’t specifically include nuts, it’s essential to check your chocolate chips and any possible cross-contamination if you’re making treats for someone with nut allergies. If you want to add nuts for extra texture, consider using sunflower seeds or dried fruits as a delightful alternative. Just ensure all your ingredients are nut-free before proceeding.
Can I use cocoa powder substitutes for this recipe?
I recommend sticking with Dutch process cocoa powder for the best flavor, as substitutes may alter the desired deep chocolate taste. However, if you need a substitute, unsweetened natural cocoa powder will work as a last resort, but keep in mind that it might slightly affect the final flavor and texture of your brownies.
Irresistible Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies to Indulge In
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the halved cherries cut-side up on the lined baking sheet, sprinkle with sugar, and roast for about 10 minutes until softened.
- Lower the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C) and grease an 8x8-inch baking pan with non-stick spray.
- In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt; set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the sugar, eggs, and egg yolk on high speed for about 5 minutes.
- Add the melted butter, oil, and vanilla extract to the egg mixture, mixing gently until just combined.
- Fold the sifted dry ingredients into the wet mixture carefully using a spatula.
- Gently fold in half of the roasted cherries and all the chocolate chips.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-50 minutes until the edges are set and the center is slightly underdone.
- Let the brownies cool in the pan for 15 minutes before slicing; top with remaining roasted cherries.