Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a warm hug, then you’ve come to the right place! These Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies are my go-to treat for any occasion. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, these brownies never fail to impress. The combination of fudgy chocolate and sweet, roasted cherries creates a delightful experience that has everyone coming back for seconds (and thirds!).

What I love most about these brownies is their versatility. You can whip them up as an indulgent treat for movie night or serve them at your next potluck. Trust me—once you taste that rich chocolate paired with juicy cherries, you’ll understand why this recipe has become a staple in my home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super fudgy texture: These brownies melt in your mouth, offering the perfect balance of richness and sweetness.
• Fresh cherry goodness: The roasted cherries add a burst of flavor that elevates the classic brownie experience.
• Easy preparation: With simple steps and minimal fuss, you can have these brownies ready in no time.
• Family-friendly delight: Kids and adults alike will adore these brownies—perfect for sharing!
• Customizable options: Feel free to mix things up with your favorite add-ins or toppings!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need anything fancy to make these delicious Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies. Just some simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Roasted Cherries

• 2 cups Cherries, cut in half (washed, pitted)
• Sprinkle of sugar

For the Brownie Batter

• 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! Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add nuts: Throw in some chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch.
• Swap the fruit: Try using raspberries or blueberries if cherries aren’t available.
• Mix in spices: A pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder can deepen the chocolate flavor beautifully.
• Go dairy-free: Replace the butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free version that’s still rich and tasty.

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 your halved cherries on it. Sprinkle them with sugar before popping them into the oven for about 10 minutes. This step brings out their natural sweetness and creates a lovely caramelized flavor that pairs perfectly with chocolate.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

While the cherries cool down, lower your oven temperature to 325°F. Take an 8X8 pan and spray it with non-stick baking spray. Line the bottom and two sides with parchment paper before giving it another light spray. This ensures easy removal of your delicious brownies later on!

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, sift together your flour, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt. Set this aside while we whip up our wet ingredients. Sifting helps eliminate lumps and gives our brownies a nice airy texture.

Step 4: Beat the Eggs and Sugar

Using a mixer with a whisk attachment, beat together the sugar, eggs, and egg yolk on high speed for about 5 minutes until it becomes fluffy and pale. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the mixture, making your brownies light yet decadent.

Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients

While those are mixing away, melt your butter until it’s just slightly cooled down. Add this melted butter along with oil and vanilla extract to your egg mixture while mixing on low speed. Once combined, remove from the mixer.

Step 6: Fold in Dry Ingredients

Gently fold in the dry ingredients using a rubber spatula until just combined—be careful not to overmix! This will help maintain that lovely fudgy texture we’re after.

Step 7: Add Cherries and Chocolate Chips

Now comes one of my favorite parts! Add half of your roasted cherries into the brownie batter along with semi-sweet chocolate chips. Gently fold them in until everything is nicely mixed together.

Step 8: Bake Your Brownies

Pour the brownie batter into your prepared pan and smooth it out evenly. Bake in your preheated oven for about 40-50 minutes. You want to see set edges while keeping the center slightly underdone—this is what makes them so gooey!

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Once baked, let those beauties cool completely in the pan before transferring them out onto a wire rack. For an extra treat, freeze them for about 15 minutes after cooling down; then top with remaining roasted cherries before cutting into squares.

And there you have it—deliciously rich Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies ready to be devoured! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

Baking these fudgy brownies can be a delightful experience, especially with a few handy tips up your sleeve!

• Use fresh cherries: Fresh, ripe cherries make all the difference in flavor. They add a juicy burst that complements the rich chocolate beautifully.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Once you combine the dry and wet ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense brownies instead of the desired fudgy texture.

• Check for doneness carefully: The edges should be set while the center remains slightly underdone. This is key for achieving that gooey brownie consistency everyone loves!

• Let them cool completely: Allowing your brownies to cool in the pan ensures they set properly, making them easier to cut without falling apart.

• Experiment with chocolate chips: Feel free to mix in different types of chocolate chips or even nuts for added texture and flavor! Dark chocolate or white chocolate chips can give a unique twist.

How to Serve Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

Presenting your roasted chocolate cherry brownies can elevate any dessert experience. Here are some creative ideas to make your treat shine!

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top adds an elegant touch and a hint of sweetness.
• Fresh mint leaves: Adding a few fresh mint leaves as a garnish provides a pop of color and a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate flavor.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy richness of vanilla ice cream perfectly balances the fudgy texture of the brownies, creating a delightful combination.
• Whipped coconut cream: For a dairy-free alternative, whipped coconut cream enhances the flavors without overpowering them.
• Berries medley: A mix of fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds brightness and acidity that cuts through the sweetness of the brownies.
• Espresso or coffee: A warm cup of espresso or coffee pairs beautifully with brownies, enhancing their chocolate notes and providing a cozy finish to your dessert experience.

These suggestions will not only enhance your Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies but also impress your family and friends! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies are perfect for meal prep! You can make a batch ahead of time, ensuring you always have a delicious treat on hand.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the brownies to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Cut the brownies into squares before freezing for easy serving.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen brownies to a freezer-safe bag or container, and label with the date.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Remove brownies from the refrigerator or freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes.
• To reheat, place them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm them in an oven set to 350°F for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies:

Can I use other fruits instead of cherries?

Absolutely! While this recipe highlights roasted cherries, feel free to experiment with other fruits like raspberries or strawberries for a different flavor profile.

How should I store Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies?

Store your brownies wrapped tightly at room temperature or in the fridge. For longer storage, freeze them in an airtight container.

What makes these brownies so fudgy?

The combination of melted butter, oil, and egg yolks contributes to their rich, fudgy texture. Plus, underbaking slightly helps keep them moist!

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. This will keep your brownies just as delicious.

How do I know when my brownies are done baking?

Check if the edges are set and the center is slightly underdone; they will firm up as they cool. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making these Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies as much as I do! The combination of rich chocolate and sweet roasted cherries creates an irresistible dessert that’s sure to delight. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with friends, this recipe is bound to bring smiles all around. Happy baking!