Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a warm hug, you’ve come to the right place! These Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies are not just any brownies; they are the ultimate combination of fudgy chocolate goodness and sweet, roasted cherries. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, these brownies are perfect for any occasion. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll understand why this recipe has become a cherished favorite in my home.

The best part? They’re simple to make and absolutely delightful to share with friends and family. Imagine the look on everyone’s faces when they discover the juicy cherries tucked inside these decadent treats. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making these brownies!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few steps, you can whip up these delicious brownies without any fuss.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves chocolate brownies! Add roasted cherries, and you’ve got a dessert that pleases all ages.
• Make Ahead: Bake them in advance for parties or unexpected guests—just freeze them after baking for an easy treat later!
• Decadent Flavor: The combination of rich chocolate and sweet cherries creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Perfectly Fudgy: These brownies boast that perfect fudgy texture we all crave, making each bite pure bliss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making these Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies is a breeze with simple, wholesome ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Brownies

• 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! Feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients. Here are some ideas that might inspire you:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and flavor.
• Use Different Fruit: Substitute cherries with raspberries or blueberries for a fruity twist!
• Swap the Chocolate Chips: Try dark chocolate or even white chocolate chips for a different taste profile.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour to cater to dietary preferences.

How to Make Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

Step 1: Roast the Cherries

Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the halved cherries over the parchment and sprinkle them with sugar. Bake for about 10 minutes until they soften and caramelize slightly. This step is crucial as roasting enhances their sweetness and adds depth to your brownies.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Once your cherries are cooling, turn down the oven temperature to 325°F. Spray an 8×8 pan with non-stick baking spray, then line the bottom and two sides with parchment paper before spraying again. This will ensure your brownies come out perfectly without sticking!

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt. Set this aside while you cream your sugars and eggs. Sifting helps eliminate lumps and ensures even distribution of dry ingredients in your batter.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

Using a mixer with a whisk attachment, beat together sugar, eggs, and egg yolk on high for about five minutes until it’s light and fluffy. Melt your butter while that’s mixing so it cools slightly. Add in the butter, oil, and vanilla extract—mixing on low until combined allows everything to meld perfectly.

Step 5: Fold It All Together

Remove the mixer from power and gently add your sifted dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a rubber spatula. It’s important to fold gently so you keep that airy texture alive! Then add half of your roasted cherries along with the chocolate chips—this is where all that deliciousness comes together.

Step 6: Bake Your Brownies

Pour the brownie batter into your prepared pan and smooth it out evenly. Bake for about 40-50 minutes; you’ll know they’re done when the edges are set but the center remains slightly underbaked—this ensures those fudgy bites we all love!

Step 7: Cool Down & Serve

Let your brownies cool completely in the pan before freezing them for about 15 minutes. Once chilled, lift them out using the parchment paper. Top with remaining roasted cherries before cutting into squares. Serve warm or at room temperature—either way, you’re in for a treat!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

Baking brownies can be a delightful experience, and with a few pro tips, you can elevate your Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies to perfection!

• Use fresh cherries: Fresh cherries provide that burst of flavor and juiciness that frozen ones simply can’t match. They also add a lovely texture contrast to the fudgy brownies.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Gently folding in the dry ingredients helps maintain airiness, which is essential for achieving those perfectly fudgy brownies. Overmixing can lead to a denser texture.
• Check for doneness carefully: To get the ideal brownie texture, check your brownies a few minutes before the suggested baking time. The edges should be set while the center remains slightly soft for that gooey consistency.
• Cool before cutting: Allowing your brownies to cool completely in the pan ensures that they firm up nicely, making them easier to cut and serving them with clean edges.
• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to mix things up by adding nuts or drizzling some chocolate sauce on top of your brownies after they cool. This gives each bite an extra layer of flavor!

How to Serve Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

When it comes to serving these delicious brownies, presentation can make all the difference! Here are some ideas to enhance your dessert experience.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting adds elegance and a touch of sweetness without overpowering the rich chocolate flavors.
• Fresh mint leaves: A sprig of mint not only looks beautiful but also offers a refreshing contrast to the rich brownie and cherry flavors.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with warm brownies, creating a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
• Whipped coconut cream: For a dairy-free option, whipped coconut cream complements the chocolate and cherries beautifully while adding a lightness that balances the richness of the brownies.
• Fresh fruit salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits brightens up your plate and provides a refreshing palate cleanser between bites of fudgy goodness.
• Coffee or tea: Serving these brownies alongside a cup of coffee or tea enhances their flavor profile. The warmth and richness of the beverage harmonize perfectly with the chocolaty treat.

Now that you have everything you need for an unforgettable dessert experience, gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in these scrumptious Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch ahead of time and have a delicious treat on hand for whenever those chocolate cravings strike.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate the brownies where they will keep fresh for about a week.

Freezing

• Wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped brownies in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few hours.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the brownie on a baking sheet and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave each brownie for about 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might pop up while preparing these delightful brownies!

Can I use fresh cherries instead of roasted ones in Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies?

While fresh cherries add flavor, roasting intensifies their sweetness and texture, making them perfect for these brownies. However, if you’re short on time, feel free to use fresh cherries!

How can I tell when my Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies are done baking?

The edges should be set while the center remains slightly underdone. A toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.

What type of cocoa powder works best for this brownie recipe?

Dutch process cocoa powder is recommended as it gives the brownies a rich chocolate flavor and dark color.

Can I substitute any ingredients in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use dairy-free butter or plant-based oil alternatives if needed. Just ensure that any substitutions maintain the same measurements for best results.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you find joy in creating these Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies! They are not just delicious but also bring a comforting warmth that makes every bite special. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with loved ones, these fudgy delights are sure to impress. Happy baking, and don’t forget to savor every moment!