Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a warm hug, these Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies are just what you need. The combination of fudgy chocolate and sweet roasted cherries creates a treat that’s rich and satisfying, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re winding down after a busy weeknight or bringing something special to a family gathering, these brownies are sure to impress.

What makes this recipe truly special is the way the roasted cherries add a burst of flavor and a lovely texture to the classic brownie. You get that delightful contrast between the chocolatey goodness and the juicy sweetness of the cherries in every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip these up without fuss.
• Family-Friendly Treat: Everyone loves brownies! These will quickly become a favorite among kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a potluck or just a cozy night at home, these brownies fit right in.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake them ahead of time, and they stay delicious for days – if they last that long!
• Deliciously Decadent Flavor: The combination of chocolate and roasted cherries creates an irresistible taste experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for these Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies are simple and wholesome. You likely have many of them in your pantry already! Here’s what you’ll need:

• 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, allowing you to play around with flavors while keeping that delicious base. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Include Spices: A pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder can deepen the chocolate flavor remarkably.
• Use Different Berries: Swap out cherries for raspberries or blueberries if you’re feeling adventurous.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend for an allergy-friendly option.

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 over it. A sprinkle of sugar will help caramelize them beautifully as they bake. Roast those cherries for about 10 minutes, then let them cool. This step intensifies their flavor and brings out their natural sweetness, making your brownies even more delightful!

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Once your cherries are out, turn down the oven to 325°F. Grab an 8X8 pan and spray it with baking non-stick spray before lining the bottom and two sides with parchment paper. Spray again to ensure easy removal later. This little trick helps prevent sticking so you can enjoy every last morsel of your brownies!

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt. Set this aside; we want our dry ingredients nicely combined before mixing them with the wet ones. Sifting helps create that deliciously fudgy texture we all love!

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

Using a mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, beat together the sugar, eggs, and egg yolk on high for about five minutes until it’s light and fluffy. While that mixes away, melt your butter until slightly cool. Add this melted butter along with oil and vanilla extract to your mixture on low speed.

Step 5: Fold in Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Remove the mixer from its stand and gently fold in your dry ingredients using a rubber spatula. Be tender here; we don’t want to knock out all that lovely air we incorporated earlier!

Step 6: Add Cherries and Chocolate Chips

Separate your roasted cherries in half—add one half into the brownie batter along with those gooey semi-sweet chocolate chips. Fold gently until everything is well combined; this will ensure those heavenly chunks of cherry and chocolate are evenly distributed throughout.

Step 7: Bake Your Brownies

Pour your brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it out smoothly. Bake in your preheated oven for about 40-50 minutes until you see set edges but slightly underdone in the center – this is key for that gooey texture! Once baked, top with any extra chocolate chips if desired.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Allow brownies to cool completely in the pan before placing them in the freezer for about 15 minutes—this makes cutting easier! Once chilled, take them out of the pan, top with remaining roasted cherries, slice into squares, and serve up those delicious treats!

There you have it – Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies that are sure to be loved by everyone! Enjoy every bit of baking (and eating) these delightful treats!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

Making the perfect roasted chocolate cherry brownies is all about the little details! Here are some pro tips to ensure your brownies turn out fudgy and delicious every time.

• Use ripe cherries: Choosing fresh, ripe cherries will enhance the sweetness and flavor of the brownies, making each bite a delightful burst of fruitiness.

• Don’t overmix the batter: When folding in the dry ingredients, be gentle. Overmixing can lead to dense brownies instead of that sought-after fudgy texture.

• Check for doneness carefully: Since these brownies are meant to be slightly underdone in the center, use a toothpick to check. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they’re perfect!

• Let them cool completely: Allowing the brownies to cool fully in the pan helps them set up properly and makes cutting them into squares much easier.

• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to get creative! Adding nuts or drizzling melted chocolate on top can elevate your brownies even further.

How to Serve Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

These roasted chocolate cherry brownies are not just a treat; they can also be presented beautifully for any occasion! Here are some ideas on how to serve them up.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness without overwhelming the chocolatey goodness.
• Fresh mint leaves: A couple of mint leaves on top not only look beautiful but also add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the brownies.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with warm brownies, creating a delightful temperature contrast that enhances both flavors.
• Whipped coconut cream: For a dairy-free option, whipped coconut cream provides a luscious topping that complements the richness of the brownies beautifully.
• Fresh fruit salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits balances out the richness of the brownies, making for an inviting dessert spread.
• Coffee or espresso: Serving these brownies alongside a cup of coffee or espresso elevates the experience, as the deep flavors of chocolate pair wonderfully with coffee’s robust notes.

Enjoy creating and sharing these delicious roasted chocolate cherry brownies! Each bite is sure to bring smiles all around.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies are perfect for meal prep! Whether you’re planning a special occasion or just want to indulge throughout the week, this recipe holds up beautifully. Here’s how you can store and enjoy them later.

Storing Leftovers

• Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Wrap individual brownie pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to label the bag with the date!

Reheating

• To enjoy your brownies warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the brownies on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can microwave a single brownie for about 15-20 seconds.

FAQs

Got questions? We’ve got answers! Here are some common queries about Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies.

Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh for roasted cherry brownies?

Yes, frozen cherries can be used! Just make sure to thaw and drain excess liquid before roasting them.

How do I make my Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies more chocolatey?

You can add extra chocolate chips or use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet. This will enhance that rich chocolate flavor!

What should I do if my brownies turn out too cakey?

To achieve that fudgy texture, avoid overbaking. Remember, they should be slightly underdone in the center when you take them out of the oven!

Can I substitute the oil in the recipe?

Absolutely! You can use applesauce or melted coconut oil as a healthier alternative.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies! They combine rich chocolate with sweet roasted cherries for an unforgettable treat. Enjoy sharing them with friends and family—or savoring a few all by yourself. Happy baking!