As I preheat my oven, the sweet aroma of melting chocolate and roasting cherries wafts through my kitchen, instantly lifting my spirits. There’s something magical about the combination of rich, fudgy texture and the tart burst of roasted cherries, making these Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies a must-try delight for any home chef. Not only are they incredibly easy to whip up, but they also transform a typical dessert into a visually stunning treat—perfect for impressing guests on special occasions or indulging in a cozy night at home. With the option to substitute frozen cherries, this recipe is both versatile and convenient. Are you ready to dive into a brownie that will surely become your new favorite?
Why will you fall in love with brownies?
Decadent Delight: These Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies deliver a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s hard to resist.
Visual Appeal: The vibrant roasted cherries add a splash of color to the rich chocolate base, making them perfect for special occasions.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, these brownies can seamlessly fit into any home chef’s routine.
Substitution Friendly: Using frozen cherries means you can enjoy this treat any time of year, making it a versatile choice.
Ultimate Comfort Food: Serve them warm with vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert that pleases every palate.
Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies Ingredients
For the Brownies
- Cherries – Provides a burst of flavor and sweetness; substitution: frozen cherries can be used if thawed.
- White Granulated Sugar – Increases sweetness and helps with browning.
- Large Eggs – Adds structure and moisture; crucial for a fudgy texture.
- Egg Yolk – Enhances richness and moisture in the brownies.
- Unsalted Butter – Contributes to the brownie’s fudgy texture; melting it allows for smooth incorporation.
- Oil (Canola or Vegetable) – Adds moisture without affecting the flavor; substitution: olive oil can replace canola/vegetable oil.
- Pure Vanilla Extract – Imparts warmth and depth of flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the brownies; it’s essential to sift it first.
- Dutch Process Cocoa Powder – Adds a deep, rich chocolate flavor; recommended for the best taste.
- Cornstarch – Helps achieve a nice texture by contributing to chewiness.
- Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances all flavors.
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Provides additional chocolate flavor and texture.
For Topping
- Roasted Cherries – Adds a vibrant touch and extra flavor; reserve some for topping after baking.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies
Step 1: Preheat and Roast the Cherries
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (204°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, and spread halved cherries evenly across the sheet. Sprinkle a light layer of sugar over the cherries and roast them for 10 minutes until they are tender and start to caramelize. Once roasted, remove them from the oven and allow the cherries to cool.
Step 2: Prepare for Baking
Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (163°C). While the oven cools, prepare an 8×8-inch baking dish by spraying it with non-stick spray and lining the bottom with parchment paper. This preparation will ensure your Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies come out easily and retain their perfect shape after baking.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, Dutch process cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt. This sifting will aerate the ingredients and ensure there are no lumps. Set aside this dry mixture as you prepare the wet ingredients for your brownie batter, which will create a rich and fudgy texture.
Step 4: Whip the Sugar and Eggs
In a separate mixing bowl, beat the granulated sugar, large eggs, and egg yolk on high speed for about 5 minutes until the mixture is pale and frothy. This step is crucial for achieving that signature crinkly top on your Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies. The sugar will begin to dissolve, creating a light and airy texture.
Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients
Melt the unsalted butter in a microwave or saucepan until fully melted, and let it cool slightly. Add the melted butter, oil, and pure vanilla extract to the frothy egg mixture. Mix on low speed until well combined, making sure the butter blends smoothly for an even texture in your brownies.
Step 6: Fold in Dry Ingredients
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a rubber spatula. Use a light hand to mix until just combined; this will prevent overmixing and keep your brownies fudgy. Be careful not to overwork the batter, as you want to maintain that rich, moist quality in your Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies.
Step 7: Add Cherries and Chocolate Chips
Stir in half of the roasted cherries and semi-sweet chocolate chips into the brownie batter. Gently incorporate them, ensuring an even distribution of flavors throughout the mixture. These ingredients will add bursts of sweetness and rich chocolate flavor to these delectable brownies.
Step 8: Bake the Brownies
Pour the brownie batter into your prepared baking dish, smoothing it out evenly with a spatula. Bake in the oven for 40-50 minutes, checking for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs clinging to it. This ensures your Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies have that perfect fudgy center.
Step 9: Cool and Firm
Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack for about 30 minutes. For a firmer texture, you can place them in the freezer for an additional 15 minutes. This cooling period is essential for easier slicing and to enhance the flavors.
Step 10: Finish and Serve
Before slicing, top the cooled brownies with the remaining roasted cherries for a pop of color and extra flavor. Carefully cut into squares to serve. These Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies are now ready to be enjoyed, either warm or at room temperature, for an indulgent dessert that is sure to impress!
Make Ahead Options
These Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can roast the cherries and prepare the brownie batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate the batters in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can bake the brownies and store them at room temperature for 3-4 days or freeze them for up to 30 days. Just ensure they are completely cool before wrapping them tightly to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw if frozen and top with the reserved roasted cherries before serving for that fresh, delectable finish!
Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies Variations & Substitutions
Customize these delightful brownies to suit your taste buds and pantry items you have on hand!
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Nutty Crunch: Add a handful of chopped walnuts or almonds for a delightful crunch alongside the chocolate and cherries. The added texture elevates each bite to a new level!
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Dark Chocolate Indulgence: Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate chips for a richer brownie experience. This deepens the chocolate flavor, making it perfect for dark chocolate aficionados.
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Berry Medley: Replace roasted cherries with fresh or roasted raspberries or strawberries for a refreshing twist. Each fruit brings its unique sweetness and tang, creating a new favorite dessert!
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Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut oil instead of unsalted butter and dairy-free chocolate chips to make these brownies dairy-free. They’ll maintain that rich flavor while catering to dietary needs.
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Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a teaspoon of chili powder to the batter for a subtle warmth and unexpected kick. This twist can make your brownies even more compelling and distinctly unique.
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Swirl of Nut Butter: Before baking, create swirls of almond or peanut butter in the brownie batter for a creamy and rich addition. The combination of chocolate and nut butter is truly divine!
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Homemade Flavor Boost: Consider adding a splash of your favorite coffee or espresso to the batter to intensify the chocolate flavor. This warm, roasted note will elevate your brownies splendidly.
Feel free to explore these variations and discover new and exciting ways to make these Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies your own. For instance, if you decide for a creamy twist, you might also enjoy my Frozen Greek Yogurt Peanut Butter Bites with Chocolate Chips for a refreshing dessert after your brownies!
Storage Tips for Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies
Room Temperature: Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days to maintain their moist and fudgy texture.
Fridge: For longer freshness, you can refrigerate brownies for about a week, ensuring they remain stored in an airtight container to prevent drying out.
Freezer: Freeze brownies for up to 30 days in a freezer-safe container or tightly wrapped in plastic. Thaw completely at room temperature before serving for the best taste.
Reheating: To enjoy warm, pop individual brownies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This will refresh their fudginess and enhance the chocolate flavor in your Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies!
What to Serve with Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies
Warm brownies are best enjoyed with complementary sides that enhance their deliciousness.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess of vanilla ice cream balances the rich, fudgy texture of the brownies, creating an unforgettable contrast. A scoop of melting ice cream transforms each bite into a glorious, sweet indulgence.
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Fresh Berries: A medley of fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries adds a light, fruity note that contrasts beautifully with the brownies. Their tartness refreshes the palate, making every mouthful delightful.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream adds a lovely creaminess that melds perfectly with the chocolate and cherries. Drizzle a bit of chocolate sauce on top for an indulgent finish.
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Coffee or Espresso: A rich cup of coffee or espresso offers a perfect pairing. Its bold flavors enhance the chocolate notes, creating a cozy café-like experience right at home.
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Mint Tea: A refreshing mint tea cleanses the palate with its cool, bright notes. Served alongside warm brownies, it offers a delightful contrast that lifts the entire dessert experience.
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Chocolate Ganache: Drizzling warm chocolate ganache over your brownies adds an extra layer of decadence. This indulgent touch elevates the dessert and gives a sophisticated flair that impresses guests.
Expert Tips for Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies
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Whip the Eggs Well: Ensure to beat your eggs thoroughly; a light and frothy mixture creates that signature crinkly top and rich texture.
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Cool Before Topping: Don’t add roasted cherries on top before baking. This prevents excess moisture from affecting the brownie’s fudgy consistency.
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Proper Cooling: Let the brownies cool completely in the pan to make cleaner cuts. If underbaked slightly, they’ll be even more deliciously fudgy.
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Use Frozen Cherries Wisely: If using frozen cherries, remember to thaw and pat them dry first. This prevents extra moisture in your Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies, ensuring they stay rich and decadent.
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Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to swap half the chocolate chips for dark chocolate or add nuts for an extra crunch. This can elevate your Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies experience!
Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best cherries for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for fresh cherries that are firm, shiny, and have a deep, vibrant color. Avoid any with dark spots all over, as they may be overripe. If fresh cherries aren’t available, frozen cherries are a fantastic substitute; just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before use to avoid the extra moisture that can affect your brownies’ texture.
What is the best way to store the brownies?
You can store your Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days to maintain their deliciously fudgy texture. If you want them to last longer, feel free to refrigerate them for about a week. Just keep them sealed tightly to prevent them from drying out!
Can I freeze the brownies, and if so, how?
Yes, you can freeze your brownies for up to 30 days! Let them cool completely, then cut them into squares. Place the brownies in a freezer-safe container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature for the best taste.
I followed the recipe but my brownies came out too dry. What went wrong?
Very common! If your brownies turned out dry, it may be due to overbaking. Be sure to check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs for that fudgy texture! Additionally, ensure you’re measuring your ingredients accurately. Using a kitchen scale can help prevent this issue.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of for this recipe?
Definitely! If you have pets, make sure to keep these brownies away from them as chocolate can be toxic to animals. Also, if anyone has allergies, this recipe contains eggs, dairy, and gluten. For egg-free or dairy-free options, you can try substituting with plant-based alternatives, but please note that results may vary.
How can I ensure my brownies are fudgy rather than cake-like?
To achieve that ultimate fudgy texture, two key tips are to slightly underbake them and whip the eggs thoroughly. Baking them until there are just a few moist crumbs adhering to a toothpick will preserve that rich depth. Also, be mindful not to overmix your batter, as this can result in a denser cake-like texture instead of those heavenly fudgy brownies!
Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies that Will Melt Your Heart
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, and spread halved cherries evenly across the sheet. Sprinkle a light layer of sugar over the cherries and roast for 10 minutes until tender.
- Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (163°C). Prepare an 8x8-inch baking dish by spraying it with non-stick spray and lining the bottom with parchment paper.
- Sift together the all-purpose flour, Dutch process cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt in a mixing bowl. Set aside.
- In a separate mixing bowl, beat the sugar, eggs, and egg yolk on high speed for about 5 minutes until pale and frothy.
- Melt the unsalted butter and let it cool slightly. Add the melted butter, oil, and vanilla extract to the egg mixture. Mix on low speed until combined.
- Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture gently until just combined to maintain a fudgy texture.
- Stir in half of the roasted cherries and chocolate chips into the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 40-50 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.
- Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan for about 30 minutes on a wire rack.
- Top with remaining roasted cherries before slicing into squares.
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