Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

These Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies are an indulgent treat that combines the rich flavors of fudgy chocolate with the sweetness of roasted cherries. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a bake sale, or a simple dessert at home, these brownies will impress everyone with their moist texture and delightful taste. The roasted cherries not only enhance the flavor but also add a beautiful presentation to this classic dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The combination of chocolate and roasted cherries creates a rich taste that everyone will love.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can achieve perfect results.
• Perfect for Sharing: Cut into squares and serve at parties or gatherings; they’re sure to disappear quickly!
• Versatile Dessert: These brownies can be enjoyed as a standalone treat or paired with ice cream for an extra indulgence.
• Fudgy Texture: The addition of semi-sweet chocolate chips ensures these brownies are irresistibly fudgy.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes baking easier and more enjoyable. Ensure you have everything ready before starting this recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Baking pan (8×8)
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl helps in combining ingredients effectively without spills.
• Electric mixer or whisk: Using an electric mixer saves time and ensures your egg mixture is light and fluffy.
• Rubber spatula: A rubber spatula is great for folding in delicate ingredients without deflating the batter.
• Baking pan (8×8): An 8×8 pan is ideal for creating thick brownies that are soft in the center.

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Ingredients

These cherry brownies are super fudgy chocolate brownies. They are filled and topped with roasted cherries.

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

How to Make Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the cherries cut in half over the parchment paper. Sprinkle them lightly with sugar, then bake for about 10 minutes until softened. Let them cool afterward.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Turn your oven down to 325°F. Spray an 8×8 baking pan with non-stick spray. Line the bottom and two sides with parchment paper for easy removal later. Spray again after lining.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt. Set this mixture aside as you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

Using an electric mixer with a whisk attachment, beat together the sugar, eggs, and egg yolk on high speed for about five minutes until light and fluffy. While that’s mixing, melt your butter so it cools slightly before adding it along with oil and vanilla extract to the mixture. Mix on low speed until combined.

Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Remove the mixing bowl from the mixer. Gently fold in the dry ingredients using a rubber spatula until just combined—be careful not to overmix as you want to keep some air in the batter.

Step 6: Add Cherries and Chocolate Chips

Take half of your roasted cherries and fold them into the brownie batter along with all of the semi-sweet chocolate chips. Pour this mixture into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly.

Step 7: Bake Your Brownies

Bake in your preheated oven for about 40-50 minutes. The brownies should be set around the edges while still slightly underdone in the center for that perfect fudgy texture. Top with extra chocolate chips if desired during baking.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once baked, let your brownies cool completely in the pan before removing them. Freeze them for about 15 minutes to make cutting easier. Top with remaining roasted cherries before slicing into squares and serving!

How to Serve Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

These decadent roasted chocolate cherry brownies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet night in, here are some delightful ways to serve them.

Pair with Whipped Cream

• Serve a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top of warm brownies for a creamy contrast that enhances the fudgy texture.

A Scoop of Ice Cream

• Add a scoop of vanilla or cherry ice cream alongside the brownies. The cold ice cream melts slightly into the warm brownie, creating a deliciously rich dessert.

Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce

• Pour warm chocolate sauce over your brownies for an extra indulgent treat. This creates an irresistible gooey layer that chocolate lovers will adore.

Fresh Berries on the Side

• Serve with fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries. Their tartness complements the sweetness of the brownies and adds a refreshing element.

Dust with Powdered Sugar

• Lightly dust the top of the cooled brownies with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. This simple addition enhances both presentation and flavor.

Garnish with Mint Leaves

• Top each serving with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. This brightens up the dish visually and adds a lovely aroma.

How to Perfect Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

To achieve the best results with your roasted chocolate cherry brownies, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs and butter are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining dry ingredients, gently fold them in to maintain airiness, resulting in fudgier brownies.
• Test for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter.
• Allow Cooling Time: Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before slicing. This helps them set properly and makes cutting easier.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
• Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to add nuts or different types of chocolate chips for added texture and flavor variations.

Best Side Dishes for Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

Pairing side dishes with your roasted chocolate cherry brownies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that balances the rich chocolate flavors beautifully.
2. Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing option that cuts through the sweetness of the brownies.
3. Chocolate Mousse: For those who can’t get enough chocolate, this creamy dessert complements brownies well.
4. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over your brownies adds another layer of sweetness that’s hard to resist.
5. Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites provide a tangy contrast to the rich brownie texture.
6. Coffee or Espresso: Serving coffee enhances flavors and offers a nice caffeine kick alongside dessert.
7. Chai Tea: The spices in chai tea create an aromatic experience that pairs wonderfully with chocolate desserts.
8. Coconut Whipped Cream: A dairy-free alternative that adds lightness and tropical flavor when served with brownies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your brownies turn out perfect every time.

• Skipping the roasting step: Roasting the cherries enhances their flavor and sweetness. Don’t skip this step for the best results.
• Overmixing the batter: Be gentle when folding in dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to dense brownies instead of fudgy ones.
• Not checking for doneness: Always check your brownies a few minutes before the suggested baking time. They should be set on the edges but slightly underdone in the center.
• Using cold ingredients: Make sure your eggs and melted butter are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Ignoring cooling times: Letting the brownies cool completely in the pan is essential for achieving the right consistency. Don’t rush this step!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep them at room temperature for short-term storage if you plan to eat them quickly.

Freezing Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

• Wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing quality.

Reheating Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place brownies on a baking sheet, and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual pieces on medium power for 15-20 seconds, checking frequently so they don’t overcook.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat with a cover. Warm each brownie for about 5 minutes until they’re nice and soft.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies that may help you while baking.

Can I use different fruits in these brownies?

You can certainly substitute roasted strawberries or raspberries if cherries aren’t available or if you want a different flavor profile.

How do I know when my brownies are done?

Check after 40 minutes. The edges should be set, but the middle may look slightly underbaked. Remember, they will firm up as they cool.

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring it’s suitable for baking.

How should I store leftover brownies?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding nuts or using different types of chocolate chips. They make a perfect dessert for gatherings or cozy nights at home. Give this recipe a try and enjoy these fudgy delights!