Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

If you’re looking for a decadent dessert that will impress your friends and family, these Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies are just the treat you need. Imagine biting into a fudgy brownie, rich with chocolate, and finding delicious roasted cherries nestled inside. It’s the kind of dessert that makes any occasion feel special, from busy weeknights to holiday gatherings. I promise you, once you make these brownies, they’ll become a cherished favorite in your home.

What makes these brownies even more delightful is how easy they are to whip up. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a batch ready in no time. Plus, the combination of chocolate and cherries is simply irresistible!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Fudgy: These brownies are rich and moist, thanks to the perfect blend of chocolate and cherries.
• Roasted Cherries: The roasting process intensifies the cherry flavor, giving each bite a sweet burst that complements the chocolate beautifully.
• Family-Friendly Treat: Everyone will love these brownies! They’re perfect for kids and adults alike.
• Quick to Prepare: With a prep time of just 20 minutes, you can have these baking while you tackle other things on your to-do list.
• Make-Ahead Option: These brownies freeze well! Make a batch ahead of time for unexpected guests or for when that chocolate craving hits.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create something truly special. Let’s gather what you need for these delightful Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies.

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! If you’re feeling creative or have dietary restrictions, here are some fun variations you can try:

• Add Nuts: For an extra crunch, mix in some chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter.
• Change the Fruit: Swap out cherries for another fruit like raspberries or blueberries if you prefer.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate chips for a dairy-free version.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor.

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 out your halved cherries on it. A sprinkle of sugar helps bring out their natural sweetness as they roast. Bake them for about 10 minutes until they soften and start to caramelize. This step is crucial because roasting enhances their flavor and adds a lovely texture.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Once your cherries are roasted and cooled slightly, turn your oven down to 325°F. Spray an 8×8 inch pan with non-stick baking spray and line the bottom and two sides with parchment paper for easy removal later. This little step ensures your brownies come out perfectly without sticking!

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt. Sifting not only combines these ingredients but also aerates them for a lighter brownie texture. Set this bowl aside while we mix our wet ingredients.

Step 4: Combine 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 it’s light and fluffy. While that’s happening, melt your butter until it’s slightly cool. Then add in the melted butter along with oil and vanilla extract. Mixing everything at this stage is important because it helps incorporate air into your batter.

Step 5: Fold in Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time to gently fold in those dry ingredients using a rubber spatula. Be careful here—not too much mixing! You want to keep as much air in as possible for that fudgy texture we all love.

Step 6: Add Cherries & Chocolate Chips

Take half of those delicious roasted cherries and gently fold them into your brownie batter along with semi-sweet chocolate chips. This part is where magic happens; all those lovely flavors come together! Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly.

Step 7: Bake & Cool

Bake your brownies in the preheated oven for about 40-50 minutes. The edges should be set while the middle remains slightly underdone—that’s how you get that fudgy goodness! Once baked, let them cool completely in the pan before adding any toppings.

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

After cooling completely (and maybe popping them in the freezer for about 15 minutes), lift them out using the parchment paper edges. Top with remaining roasted cherries before cutting them into squares. Get ready to enjoy every last bite of these Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

Baking can be a delightful adventure, and with these pro tips, you’ll ensure your roasted chocolate cherry brownies turn out perfectly every time!

• Use ripe cherries: Choosing ripe, sweet cherries will enhance the flavor of your brownies, bringing out their natural sweetness and juiciness.

• Don’t skip the resting time: Allowing the brownies to cool completely in the pan helps them set properly, ensuring they remain fudgy and moist without falling apart when you cut them.

• Check for doneness carefully: Since these brownies should be slightly underdone in the middle, use a toothpick to test for doneness—if it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they are ready to come out of the oven.

• Experiment with chocolate chips: For added texture and flavor, try mixing different types of chocolate chips, such as dark or milk chocolate. This gives an exciting twist to your brownies!

• Store properly for freshness: Keep leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for longer shelf life. They taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together!

How to Serve Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

Presentation matters! Serve your roasted chocolate cherry brownies in style to impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar on top offers a beautiful contrast against the rich brownies and adds a touch of sweetness.

• Whipped coconut cream: For a dairy-free option that complements the chocolate and cherries, serve with fluffy whipped coconut cream for a delightful balance.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A classic pairing that brings a creamy contrast to the fudgy brownies; consider using plant-based ice cream if you’re avoiding dairy.

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing side loaded with seasonal fruits can provide a bright contrast to the rich flavors of the brownies while adding some healthy nutrients.

• Coffee or espresso: The bitterness of coffee complements the sweetness of chocolate perfectly; serve it alongside your brownies for an indulgent treat any time of day.

• Mint tea: A soothing cup of mint tea can cleanse the palate after indulging in these rich desserts, making it an excellent choice for after-dinner enjoyment.

With these serving suggestions and tips in hand, you’re well-equipped to create and share delicious roasted chocolate cherry brownies that everyone will love! Enjoy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies are perfect for meal prep! You can make a batch ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy them throughout the week or share them with friends and family.

Storing Leftovers

• Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, place the container in the refrigerator; they will stay fresh for up to a week.

Freezing

• Cut brownies into individual squares before freezing for easy access.
• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To enjoy your brownies warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the brownies on a baking sheet and cover with foil to prevent them from drying out.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about these delightful brownies.

Can I use other fruits instead of cherries in roasted chocolate cherry brownies?

Absolutely! While cherries add a unique flavor, you can experiment with other fruits like raspberries or blueberries. Just be sure to adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of your chosen fruit.

How do I ensure my roasted chocolate cherry brownies turn out fudgy?

To achieve that perfect fudgy texture, avoid overbaking. The edges should be set while the center remains slightly underdone. This gives you that gooey, rich brownie experience!

What makes roasted chocolate cherry brownies different from regular brownies?

Roasting the cherries enhances their flavor and adds a lovely caramelized note that pairs beautifully with the chocolate. This elevates your standard brownie recipe into something truly special!

Can I add nuts to my roasted chocolate cherry brownies?

Yes! If you enjoy a bit of crunch, feel free to fold in some walnuts or pecans along with the chocolate chips. Just keep in mind any allergies of those you’re serving!

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe for Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies finds its way into your kitchen! With their rich chocolate flavor and bursts of roasted cherry goodness, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy making these delicious treats and don’t hesitate to share them with loved ones! Happy baking!