Did you know that roasting cherries can elevate their natural sweetness and bring out a wonderfully complex flavor? In my journey of baking, this delightful surprise excited me, and now I can’t resist incorporating it into my favorite treats. Today, I’m thrilled to share my Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies, the perfect fusion of rich, fudgy chocolate and the bright, fruity notes of roasted cherries.
These brownies are not just a dessert; they’re a statement of decadence that can transform any gathering into a memorable occasion. What makes them irresistible? First, the speed at which they come together makes them a go-to recipe for busy evenings or last-minute get-togethers. Secondly, they strike that perfect balance between sweet and tart, making them a crowd-pleaser for everyone from chocolate lovers to fruit enthusiasts.
Once you take a bite, the crinkled top and incredibly moist center will have you wondering if you’ve just stumbled upon your new favorite treat. Are you ready to dive into this delightful recipe? Let’s get baking!
Why Are Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies So Special?
Decadence on a Plate: These fudgy brownies offer an indulgent experience that pleases the palate.
Roasted Flavor Awaits: Roasting cherries enhances their sweetness, blending perfectly with rich chocolate.
Quick & Simple: This recipe is ideal for those busy days, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for gatherings, these brownies cater to both chocolate lovers and fruit fans.
Unique Texture: Enjoy the heavenly combination of a crinkly top and gooey center in each bite!
Discover the joy of brownies elevated by these roasted beauties that are sure to impress—check out this amazing brownie recipe for more delicious ideas!
Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies Ingredients
For the Brownies
• Cherries – Fresh cherries provide a delightful fruity flavor, but frozen cherries (thawed) work too!
• Sugar – Sweetens both the cherries during roasting and the brownie batter, enhancing the overall taste.
• White Granulated Sugar – Contributes to the brownie’s texture while adding sweetness.
• Eggs – Adds richness and structure; use large eggs along with an additional egg yolk for the best fudgy result.
• Egg Yolk – This little gem enhances the brownie’s fudginess and richness.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds moisture and flavor, ensuring your brownies are incredibly delicious.
• Oil (Canola or Vegetable) – Keeps the brownies extra moist and tender.
• Pure Vanilla Extract – Elevates all the flavors to create a beautifully balanced dessert.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; make sure to sift it to avoid lumps for smooth batter.
• Dutch Process Cocoa Powder – Delivers a deep chocolate flavor; also sift to achieve richness and prevent lumps.
• Cornstarch – Helps achieve a tender crumb, adding to the delectable fudgy texture.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness, enhancing the flavors of each ingredient.
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Adds delightful pockets of chocolate throughout each bite of your roasted chocolate cherry brownies.
For the Topping
• Remaining Roasted Cherries – Add these on top post-baking for an extra punch of fruity goodness!
Step-by-Step Instructions for Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to get things started on the right foot. While the oven heats up, take the fresh cherries and cut them in half, removing the pits. Arrange them cut-side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Sprinkle a light layer of sugar over the cherries, which will help enhance their sweetness during roasting. Pop them in the oven and let them roast for about 10 minutes, until they soften and begin to caramelize. Allow the roasted cherries to cool while you prepare the brownie batter.
Step 2
In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, Dutch process cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt. Sifting is essential as it ensures a smooth batter free from lumps, which is key for achieving those irresistibly fudgy Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies. Set this bowl aside for now, as it will combine harmoniously with the wet ingredients in the next steps.
Step 3
Using a mixer with a whisk attachment, beat the granulated sugar, eggs, and egg yolk together on high speed for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial for getting that signature crinkled top on your brownies. Once the mixture appears pale and frothy, decrease the speed and gently add the melted butter, canola oil, and pure vanilla extract. Mix just until everything is combined without overmixing, retaining that airy texture.
Step 4
Now, it’s time to combine the ingredients. Gently fold the sifted dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a rubber spatula. Be careful not to deflate the batter; a gentle approach is key here. Once just combined, fold in half of your cooled roasted cherries along with the semi-sweet chocolate chips, ensuring the chocolate chips are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 5
Prepare an 8x8 inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper for easy removal later. Pour your rich brownie batter into the pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Bake your brownies in the preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 40-50 minutes. The edges should be set while the center remains slightly underbaked for that fudgy texture. Keep an eye on them and do the toothpick test—it should come out with a few moist crumbs.
Step 6
Once the brownies are baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan. After letting them cool for about 20-30 minutes at room temperature, transfer the pan to the freezer for an additional 15 minutes. Once chilled, carefully lift the brownies out using the parchment paper, place them on a cutting board, and top with the remaining roasted cherries for an extra burst of flavor. Slice into squares, serve, and enjoy the bliss of your Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies!
Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies Variations
Feel free to explore these fun twists on your Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies for new and delightful flavors!
- Frozen Substitution: Swap fresh cherries with thawed frozen ones for an easier option—convenience meets deliciousness!
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that complements the fudgy texture.
- Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut oil instead of butter and a dairy-free chocolate to create a rich, creamy brownie.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper into the batter to introduce a surprising hint of warmth that elevates the chocolate.
- Zesty Twist: Incorporate a teaspoon of orange zest into the batter for a refreshing citrusy flavor that pairs beautifully with cherries.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a treat that all can enjoy without compromising taste.
- Salted Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle warm salted caramel sauce over the brownies before serving for an indulgent gourmet touch!
- Creamy Center: Swirl in a layer of cream cheese or nut butter before baking for a luscious surprise in every bite.
Get creative with these variations and make the recipe your own—happy baking!
How to Store and Freeze Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies
Room Temperature: Store your brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days to maintain their delicious fudginess.
Fridge: If you prefer a firmer texture, refrigerate your brownies in an airtight container for up to a week, allowing the flavors to deepen.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies in an airtight container for up to 30 days. Thaw completely before enjoying for the best taste.
Reheating: To enjoy your brownies warm, briefly reheat them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or in the oven at low heat, ensuring they stay wonderfully moist.
Expert Tips for Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies
Crinkle Top Secret: Use a mixer with a whisk attachment to whip air into the eggs and sugar, ensuring that classic crinkled top.
Avoid Over-Mixing: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet batter to maintain the airy texture—over-mixing can lead to dense brownies.
Underbake for Fudge: Bake until the edges are set, but the center is slightly underdone for that perfect fudgy consistency your Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies deserve.
Cool Completely: Let brownies cool fully in the pan before slicing; this helps them set and makes cutting easier.
Topping Tips: Add remaining roasted cherries after baking to prevent excess moisture from affecting the texture.
What to Serve with Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies?
Indulging in these decadent brownies is a treat, but pairing them with the right sides can elevate your dessert experience even further!
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a delightful contrast to the rich chocolate and cherry flavors, creating a luscious combination that melts in your mouth.
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Fresh Berries: Serve a side of mixed fresh berries for a burst of tartness that beautifully complements the sweetness of the brownies while adding a refreshing touch to your dessert plate.
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Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle some warm chocolate sauce over your brownies for that extra layer of richness that chocolate lovers crave. It’s a sumptuous extension of the flavors already present!
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Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy whipped cream adds a delicate sweetness to each bite, enhancing the fudgy texture of the brownies without overwhelming them.
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Espresso or Coffee: Pairing these brownies with a cup of espresso or freshly brewed coffee balances the sweetness and enhances the rich chocolate notes, making it a delightful after-dinner treat.
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Almonds or Walnuts: Crushed nuts sprinkled on top add a satisfying crunch, offering a nutty contrast that complements the soft, fudgy texture of your brownies perfectly.
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Chilled Milk: A classic pairing, chilled milk is the perfect thirst-quencher that balances the sweetness and leaves you feeling warm and cozy with every bite!
Make Ahead Options
These Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the roasted cherries up to 24 hours in advance by cutting, pitting, and roasting them. Simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their luscious sweetness. The brownie batter can also be made ahead and stored covered in the fridge for up to 3 days before baking. Just remember to bring it to room temperature before pouring into the pan and baking. When you’re ready to indulge, bake until slightly underdone for that fudgy texture, cool, and finish with your roasted cherries on top for a delightful treat—quickly bringing dessert to the table!
Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies Recipe FAQs
Can I add fresh cherries to brownie mix?
Absolutely! Adding fresh cherries is a delicious option. Just make sure to cut the cherries in half, pit them, and if desired, you can roast them first to enhance their sweetness and flavor—this makes your brownies even more fudgy and flavorful!
How should I store my brownies?
For the best texture, store your Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you want them to last a little longer, you can refrigerate them in the same way; they'll stay fresh for about a week, allowing the flavors to develop even more.
Can I freeze brownies, and if so, how?
Yes, you can freeze your brownies! To do so, first, ensure they are completely cool. Slice the brownies into squares and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 30 days! When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator or at room temperature.
What is the secret to moist brownies?
The key to achieving moist and fudgy Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies lies in a few crucial steps: using the right balance of wet ingredients like butter and oil, and not overbaking them. You want to take them out of the oven when the edges are set, but the center is still slightly underdone. This will help maintain that gooey texture that everyone loves!
Irresistibly Fudgy Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the fresh cherries in half, remove the pits, and arrange them cut-side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Sprinkle a light layer of sugar over the cherries. Roast for about 10 minutes until softened. Allow to cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together all-purpose flour, Dutch process cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt. Set aside.
- In a mixer, beat together granulated sugar, eggs, and egg yolk on high speed for 5 minutes. Lower the speed and gently add melted butter, canola oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until combined.
- Gently fold the sifted dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Once combined, fold in half of the cooled roasted cherries and semi-sweet chocolate chips.
- Prepare an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper. Pour brownie batter into the pan and spread evenly. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 40-50 minutes. The edges should be set, the center slightly underbaked. Check with a toothpick.
- Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for 20-30 minutes, then transfer to freezer for 15 minutes. Top with remaining roasted cherries, slice, and enjoy!
Nutrition
Notes
- Use a mixer with a whisk attachment for a crinkled top.
- Gently fold dry ingredients to prevent dense brownies.
- Underbake slightly for a fudgy texture.
- Cool fully before slicing to make cutting easier.
- Add roasted cherries after baking to maintain texture.
