Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate with the sweet burst of cherries, then these Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies are just what you need! These fudgy brownies are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The roasted cherries add a unique twist that elevates this classic dessert, turning it into something truly special. Trust me, once you try these brownies, they will become your go-to recipe for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and ingredients, you can have these brownies baking in no time.
• Fudgy Goodness: The combination of semi-sweet chocolate chips and roasted cherries creates a moist and decadent texture.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for sharing at parties, family dinners, or just enjoying at home with loved ones.
• Make Ahead: These brownies store well in the fridge or freezer, so you can enjoy them whenever you crave something sweet.
• Versatile Flavors: The addition of roasted cherries brings out a depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with chocolate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these scrumptious brownies, you’ll need a few simple and wholesome ingredients. Don’t worry; they are easy to find and perfect for creating this delightful dessert!

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 quite flexible! Here are a few fun variations to try:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and flavor.
• Use Different Fruit: Swap out cherries for raspberries or blueberries for a berry twist.
• Try Different Chocolates: Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a richer taste.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.

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 the halved cherries on it. A light sprinkle of sugar over the cherries helps enhance their natural sweetness as they roast. Bake them for about 10 minutes until they’re tender and caramelized. This step is crucial because roasting brings out the deep flavors of the cherries that will complement the chocolate perfectly!

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Once your cherries have cooled down, reduce your oven temperature to 325°F. Grab an 8×8 inch pan and spray it with non-stick baking spray. To ensure easy brownie removal later, line the bottom and two sides with parchment paper and spray again. This little trick makes serving your brownies so much easier!

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt. Sifting is important as it breaks up any clumps in your dry ingredients and ensures an even distribution throughout your batter. Set this bowl aside while we work on the 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. This process incorporates air into the mixture, resulting in lighter brownies. While that’s mixing away, melt your butter until it’s slightly cool. Once ready, add the melted butter, oil, and vanilla to the egg mixture and mix on low until combined.

Step 5: Fold Everything Together

Remove your mixer and gently add in the dry ingredients using a rubber spatula. Be careful not to overmix; we want to keep that airy texture! Next, fold in half of those beautiful roasted cherries along with the chocolate chips until everything is just combined.

Step 6: 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’ll know they’re done when the edges look set but the middle remains slightly underdone—trust me; this is how you get that fudgy goodness! Sprinkle some extra chocolate chips on top right before they finish baking if you’re feeling indulgent.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Let your brownies cool completely in the pan before chilling them in the freezer for about 15 minutes. This makes cutting them easier! Once chilled, carefully lift them from the pan using the parchment paper edges. Top with remaining roasted cherries before slicing into squares to serve—enjoy each heavenly bite!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

Creating the perfect batch of Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies is all about attention to detail and a little love. Here are some tips to ensure your brownies turn out fudgy and delicious every time!

• Use fresh cherries: Fresh, ripe cherries yield the best flavor and texture. Their natural sweetness enhances the overall taste of the brownies.

• Don’t overmix the batter: When folding in the dry ingredients, be gentle. Overmixing can lead to tough brownies, while a light touch keeps them tender and fudgy.

• Check doneness carefully: The brownies should be slightly underbaked in the center for that perfect fudgy texture. Use a toothpick—if it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they’re ready!

• Cool completely before cutting: Allowing the brownies to cool in the pan ensures they set properly and makes them easier to cut into neat squares.

• Experiment with add-ins: Feel free to mix in nuts or other fruits besides cherries for added texture and flavor variations. Just remember to keep proportions balanced so that the brownies maintain their fudginess.

How to Serve Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

These delightful brownies are not only a treat on their own but can be elevated further with some thoughtful presentation. Whether you’re sharing them at a gathering or enjoying them after dinner, here are some serving suggestions!

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a luscious, dairy-free touch that complements the rich chocolate flavors.
• Chocolate drizzle: A simple drizzle of melted semi-sweet chocolate over the top adds an elegant finish and extra indulgence.
• Fresh mint leaves: A sprinkle of fresh mint leaves not only looks beautiful but also provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the brownies.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The classic combination! A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with warm brownies, creating a delightful contrast of temperatures.
• Fruit salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad balances out the richness of the brownies, making for a well-rounded dessert experience.
• Coffee or espresso: A strong cup of coffee or espresso brings out the chocolate flavors even more while providing a nice caffeine kick.
• Chocolate sauce: For those who want an extra chocolatey experience, serve with a side of warm chocolate sauce for dipping.

With these tips and serving ideas, your Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies are sure to impress family and friends alike! Enjoy baking and indulging in this sweet treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies are perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch in advance, allowing you to indulge in their fudgy goodness anytime you crave a sweet treat.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the brownies to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week.

Freezing

• Cut the brownies into squares and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place the wrapped brownies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

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

FAQs

Here are some common questions about these delicious brownies!

Can I use frozen cherries for Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies?

Yes! Frozen cherries can be used instead of fresh. Just ensure they are thawed and drained of excess moisture before using them in the recipe.

How do I know when my Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies are done baking?

The edges should be set, while the middle will look slightly underdone. This ensures that they stay fudgy and delicious!

Can I substitute any ingredients in Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies?

Absolutely! Feel free to use coconut oil instead of butter or substitute almond flour for all-purpose flour if you prefer gluten-free options.

What is the best way to serve Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies?

These brownies are delightful on their own, but you can also serve them with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra treat!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies as much as I do! They’re not only rich and fudgy but also bursting with the sweet flavor of roasted cherries. Whether you’re sharing with friends or savoring them alone, these brownies are sure to bring joy. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations!