Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies
If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a warm hug, look no further than these Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies. These brownies are not just your average treat; they are a delightful combination of rich chocolate and sweet, roasted cherries that will surely make your taste buds dance. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this recipe is a definite crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
One of the things I love most about these brownies is their fudgy texture. The roasted cherries add a burst of flavor that complements the chocolate beautifully. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself on a cozy evening at home, these Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll have delicious brownies in no time.
- Fudgy perfection: These brownies have a rich and moist texture that makes every bite indulgent.
- Fruitful twist: The addition of roasted cherries elevates the flavor and adds natural sweetness.
- Perfect for sharing: Ideal for potlucks, parties, or just a sweet treat at home with loved ones.
- Make-ahead goodness: Bake ahead of time and enjoy them fresh from the fridge or warmed up—yum!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to whip up these delicious brownies! You might already have many of them in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups Cherries cut in half (washed, pitted)
- Sprinkle of sugar
- 1 1/3 cup White granulated sugar
- 2 Large eggs
- 1 Egg yolk
- 5 TBSP Unsalted butter (melted)
- 1/3 cup Oil (canola or vegetable)
- 1 tsp Pure vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup All-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup Dutch process cocoa powder
- 1 TBSP Cornstarch
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 cup Semi-sweet chocolate chips
Variations
This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to customize it to your taste! Here are some delicious variations you might consider:
- Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
- Use different fruits: Swap the cherries for raspberries or blueberries if you prefer those flavors.
- Try different chocolates: Substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate or even white chocolate for a unique twist.
- Make it gluten-free: Use almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend instead of regular flour.
How to Make Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies
Step 1: Roast the Cherries
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the halved cherries over it. Sprinkle them lightly with sugar to enhance their sweetness while roasting. Bake for about 10 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant. Let them cool while you prepare the brownie batter—this step is key as it brings out the natural sugars in the cherries.
Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pan
Lower the oven temperature to 325°F. Grab an 8×8 inch baking pan and spray it with non-stick spray. Line the bottom and two sides with parchment paper before spraying again. This will ensure easy removal once your brownies are baked!
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt. Setting these dry ingredients aside allows for an even distribution when mixed later. It’s an important step to guarantee those fudgy brownies we all love!
Step 4: Whip Up Your Wet Ingredients
Using a mixer with a whisk attachment, beat together the sugar, eggs, and egg yolk on high speed for about five minutes until light and fluffy. While that’s mixing, melt your butter until slightly cooled. Once ready, add the melted butter, oil, and vanilla extract on low speed—this creates a rich base that holds everything together.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Remove the bowl from the mixer and gently fold in your dry ingredients using a rubber spatula. Be careful not to overmix; we want to keep as much air as possible! Then add half of those lovely roasted cherries along with the semi-sweet chocolate chips before folding them into your brownie batter until just combined.
Step 6: Bake Your Brownies
Pour the brownie batter into your prepared pan and spread it out evenly. Bake in your preheated oven for 40-50 minutes. The edges should be set while the center remains slightly underdone—this gives us that fudgy texture we crave! Once done, sprinkle some extra chocolate chips on top before letting it cool completely in the pan.
Step 7: Finish Up
After cooling down, pop those brownies in the freezer for about 15 minutes so they firm up nicely. Once chilled, lift them out using the parchment paper and top with any remaining roasted cherries before cutting into squares to serve.
And there you have it! A batch of delightful Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies that are sure to impress anyone lucky enough to taste them! Enjoy every bite!
Pro Tips for Making Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies
Baking can be a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll ensure your brownies turn out perfectly every time!
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Use fresh cherries: Fresh, ripe cherries will give your brownies a vibrant flavor and juicy texture. They are key to making the roasted cherry topping truly shine!
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Don’t overmix the batter: When folding in the dry ingredients, be gentle. Overmixing can lead to dense brownies instead of the fudgy texture you want.
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Check for doneness carefully: Since we want the middle to remain slightly underdone, use a toothpick to test; it should come out with a few moist crumbs attached rather than clean.
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Let them cool completely: It might be tempting to dig in right away, but allowing the brownies to cool fully ensures they set properly and makes cutting easier.
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Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add nuts or different types of chocolate chips for added texture and flavor. This recipe is versatile and can easily be adjusted to suit your taste preferences!
How to Serve Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies
Presentation is key when it comes to dessert! Here are some delightful ways to serve your roasted chocolate cherry brownies that will impress your family and friends.
Garnishes
- Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a creamy contrast that pairs beautifully with the rich chocolate and tart cherries.
- Chocolate drizzle: A simple drizzle of melted semi-sweet chocolate over the top not only enhances the visual appeal but also intensifies the chocolate flavor.
- Fresh mint leaves: Adding a few sprigs of fresh mint on top brings a pop of color and a refreshing hint that complements the sweetness of the brownies.
Side Dishes
- Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast to the warm brownies. The cold ice cream melts slightly into the warm brownie, creating an indulgent treat.
- Coffee: A cup of freshly brewed coffee balances the sweetness of the brownies beautifully. The rich flavors in coffee enhance chocolate desserts remarkably.
- Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits offers a bright, juicy contrast that cleanses the palate between bites of rich brownie.
- Herbal tea: Pairing these brownies with a soothing herbal tea like chamomile or mint adds warmth and relaxation after a sweet indulgence.
Enjoy making and serving these roasted chocolate cherry brownies! They’re bound to become a favorite for everyone who tries them.
Make Ahead and Storage
These Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious treat throughout the week. Whether you’re planning a gathering or just want to satisfy your sweet tooth, they store beautifully!
Storing Leftovers
- Allow brownies to cool completely before storing.
- Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For longer freshness, refrigerate them for up to a week.
Freezing
- Cut the brownies into squares and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap.
- Place wrapped brownies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing their fudgy texture.
Reheating
- To enjoy warm brownies, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the brownies on a baking sheet and cover with foil to prevent drying out.
- Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave individual pieces for 15-20 seconds.
FAQs
Here are some common questions you might have about these delightful treats!
Can I use fresh cherries in Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies?
Absolutely! Fresh cherries add a burst of flavor and moisture that pairs perfectly with the rich chocolate brownie base.
How should I store Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer shelf life. They also freeze well!
Can I substitute the chocolate chips in Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies?
Yes, feel free to use dark chocolate chips or even white chocolate chips if you prefer a different flavor profile.
What can I serve with Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies?
These brownies pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.
How do I prevent my brownies from becoming too dry?
Make sure not to overbake them! The edges should be set while the center remains slightly underdone—this ensures a fudgy texture.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited about these Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies as I am! They bring together the richness of chocolate and the sweetness of roasted cherries for an unforgettable dessert experience. Whether it’s a family gathering or just a cozy night in, these brownies will surely impress. Enjoy making this recipe and savor every bite!
Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in the ultimate dessert experience with these Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies. This delightful recipe combines the rich, fudgy texture of chocolate brownies with a burst of sweet, roasted cherries, creating a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Perfect for any occasion—be it a cozy night in or a festive gathering—these brownies are sure to impress friends and family alike. Easy to prepare and even easier to devour, this dessert is destined to become a staple in your recipe collection.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cherries (washed, pitted, and halved)
- 1 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 1/3 cup canola or vegetable oil
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup Dutch process cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Spread halved cherries on a parchment-lined baking sheet, sprinkle with sugar, and roast for about 10 minutes until soft.
- Lower the oven temperature to 325°F. Prepare an 8×8 inch baking pan by spraying it with non-stick spray and lining it with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together sugar, eggs, melted butter, oil, and vanilla until fluffy.
- Fold dry ingredients into wet ingredients gently; then add half of the roasted cherries and chocolate chips.
- Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 40-50 minutes or until edges are set.
- Let cool before slicing into squares.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie (approximately 40g)
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
