The delightful scent of roasted cherries fills the kitchen, wrapping me in a warm embrace while I prepare a treat that promises to light up any gathering. These Fudgy Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies are not just a dessert; they’re an experience that combines rich chocolate and the natural sweetness of roasted fruit. Imagine biting into a warm brownie, its soft texture melting in your mouth, a subtle hint of cherry emerging with every bite.
After a long week of mundane meals, I found joy in these brownies, perfect for sharing on special occasions or simply indulging during a quiet evening. Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day or just treating yourself, this recipe is an effortless way to elevate your dessert game. Let’s dive into this simple yet treasured recipe that will turn your kitchen into a chocolate haven!
Why Love Roasted Cherry Brownies?
Decadent flavors: The luscious combination of rich chocolate and sweet, roasted cherries creates a dessert that’s simply irresistible.
Ultra-fudgy texture: These brownies are soft, chewy, and indulgently moist—perfect for those who crave that dense brownie satisfaction.
Ideal for sharing: Great for parties, date nights, or cozy evenings in, this recipe turns any gathering into a celebration of taste.
Simple to make: With straightforward steps and easily available ingredients, these brownies can be whipped up quickly, perfect for busy weeknights.
Versatile variations: Feel free to swap out cherries for raspberries or blueberries, or add nuts for an extra crunch!
Elevate your dessert game and explore more delicious ideas with our easy dessert recipes.
Fudgy Roasted Cherry Brownies Ingredients
For the Brownies
- Cherries – Fresh cherries contribute a burst of sweetness and flavor; frozen cherries can work if thawed before use.
- Sugar – Adds the necessary sweetness and structure; consider reducing the amount for a less sweet brownie.
- Eggs – Essential for binding the ingredients together and achieving the perfect fudgy texture; use large eggs for best results.
- Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and a soft texture; replace with margarine or coconut oil for a dairy-free alternative.
- Oil (Canola or Vegetable) – Keeps the brownies moist; melted coconut oil can add a delightful flavor.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances sweetness and aroma; opt for pure vanilla for the best taste, though artificial can do in a pinch.
- All-Purpose Flour – Offers structure and stability; gluten-free options are available but may require testing.
- Dutch Process Cocoa Powder – Delivers a deep chocolate flavor without bitterness; plain unsweetened cocoa can substitute if necessary.
- Cornstarch – Helps with the texture and moisture; it’s optional but recommended for that extra fudginess.
- Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor; kosher salt makes a great substitute.
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Adds layers of chocolate flavor and delightful texture; dark chocolate chips work if you prefer less sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly indulgent experience.
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s get cooking!
How to Make Roasted Cherry Brownies
Roast Cherries: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Halve the fresh cherries and sprinkle them lightly with sugar. Spread the cherries on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast for about 10 minutes. Once done, allow them to cool.
Prepare Brownie Batter: Lower the oven temperature to 325°F (163°C). In a bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, Dutch process cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt. In a separate bowl, beat together sugar, eggs, and egg yolk on high for 5 minutes until light and fluffy. Fold in the melted butter, canola oil, and vanilla extract. Gently incorporate the dry ingredients with a rubber spatula, being careful not to deflate the mixture.
Combine and Bake: Gently fold in half of the roasted cherries and semi-sweet chocolate chips into the batter. Spread the mixture evenly in a greased and lined 8×8 inch baking dish. Bake for 40-50 minutes. The edges should be set while the center remains slightly underdone (a toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs).
Cool and Serve: Let the brownies cool for about 15 minutes in the freezer until firm. Before slicing, top them with the remaining roasted cherries for that beautiful presentation.
Optional: Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Roasted Cherry Brownies
• Airy Batter: Use a mixer with a whisk attachment to beat eggs and sugar; this incorporates the air needed for that perfect fudgy texture.
• Bake Time Awareness: Keep a close eye on your brownies as they bake. They should remain slightly underdone in the center for ultimate fudginess.
• Cherry Placement: Avoid topping the brownies with cherries before baking, as excess moisture can affect the texture.
• Cool Completely: Let the brownies cool fully before slicing. This ensures clean cuts and beautiful presentation.
• Ingredient Temperature: Use room temperature eggs and butter; this helps blend the ingredients smoothly for a well-combined batter.
Elevate your baking game with these delicious Roasted Cherry Brownies!
Make Ahead Options
These Roasted Cherry Brownies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can roast the cherries up to 24 hours in advance, allowing their flavors to deepen. After roasting, simply store them in an airtight container in the fridge. You can also prepare the brownie batter ahead of time—just mix the dry ingredients and wet ingredients separately, refrigerating them overnight. When you’re ready to bake, gently combine the mixtures and fold in the roasted cherries. This method not only saves time on busy days but ensures that your brownies taste just as delicious as if they were made fresh! Enjoy the luxury of having these fudgy delights at your fingertips whenever the craving strikes.
Variations & Substitutions of Roasted Cherry Brownies
Invite your inner chef to experiment with these delicious brownie variations that will tickle your taste buds and spark your creativity.
Berry Bliss: Swap cherries for fresh raspberries or blueberries for a delightful twist and bright burst of flavor.
Nutty Crunch: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a wonderful crunch that complements the fudgy texture beautifully.
Dairy-Free Delight: Replace the butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate chips for a scrumptious treat that’s suitable for everyone.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon into the batter for a surprising warmth that elevates the chocolate flavor.
Cookie Dough Swirl: Fold in chunks of cookie dough alongside the cherries for a rich, indulgent brownie that satisfies your sweet cravings.
Fruity Citrus: Add the zest of an orange or lemon to the batter for a refreshing citrus aroma that lifts the rich chocolate flavor to new heights.
Double Chocolate: Enhance the chocolate flavor by increasing the cocoa powder or adding an extra ½ cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips.
Vegan Option: Use flax eggs instead of regular eggs and incorporate maple syrup for a natural sweetener, achieving a delightful vegan version of these brownies.
Dive into these variations and give your Roasted Cherry Brownies a personal touch that makes every bite unique!
What to Serve with Roasted Cherry Brownies?
Indulge in a tempting feast with delightful pairings that enhance the chocolatey goodness of your brownies.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic accompaniment, the creamy flavor beautifully contrasts the rich, fudgy brownies for a dreamy experience.
Fresh Berries: Brighten your dessert plate with a medley of raspberries and strawberries, adding a tart balance to the sweetness.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, fresh whipped cream provides a delightful texture and can be flavored with a dash of vanilla or almond.
Coffee or Espresso: A rich cup of coffee or a shot of espresso elevates the chocolate flavors, creating the perfect after-dinner treat.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle some warm chocolate sauce over each brownie for an extra indulgent touch—it takes the treat to the next level!
Nutty Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of nutty caramel brings a sweet, salty layer that enhances each bite, making your dessert even more luxurious.
Chocolate Milkshake: For a nostalgic twist, pair your brownies with a thick chocolate milkshake that echoes their fudginess and satisfies any sweet tooth.
Chai Latte: The warm spices of chai provide a comforting contrast to the sweetness of the brownies, perfect for cozy evenings.
Nutty Bread Pudding: Serve a slice of this rich dessert for an unexpected yet delicious pairing—its warmth complements the brownies wonderfully.
How to Store and Freeze Roasted Cherry Brownies
Room Temperature: Keep brownies in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. This helps maintain their fudgy texture, perfect for quick snacks.
Fridge: If you prefer a chilled treat, store them in the fridge for up to 5 days, but be aware they may lose some of their moisture.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap brownies individually in plastic wrap and place in a sealed freezer bag. They can last up to 30 days.
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, microwave for 10-15 seconds. Just remember, these Roasted Cherry Brownies taste best fresh!
Roasted Cherry Brownies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right cherries for roasting?
Absolutely! Look for fresh cherries that are firm and plump, with a vibrant color. Avoid any with dark spots or wrinkles. If fresh cherries aren’t available, frozen cherries can work just fine—just be sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before roasting.
What’s the best way to store Roasted Cherry Brownies?
I recommend storing your brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you’re worried about them drying out, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in the container. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for about 5 days or freeze them (see below for instructions).
How can I freeze Roasted Cherry Brownies?
Very simple! First, let the brownies cool completely. Then, slice them into desired portions and wrap each piece in plastic wrap. Place these wrapped brownies in a sealed freezer bag and label it with the date. They can be frozen for up to 30 days. To enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds until slightly warm.
What should I do if my brownies turn out too dry?
If your brownies come out dry, it might be due to overbaking. To ensure a fudgy texture, check them a few minutes before the suggested baking time. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs. If they are dry, you can also consider adding a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce when serving to enhance moisture.
Can I adapt this recipe to be allergy-friendly?
Indeed, you can! For a dairy-free option, substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil or margarine. If you need a gluten-free version, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend—just ensure it’s tested for optimal results. Always check ingredient labels to avoid allergens based on personal dietary needs.
Can I add other fruits or nuts to the brownies?
Absolutely! You can substitute cherries with other fruits like raspberries or blueberries. If you’re looking for an added crunch, consider folding in chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans into the batter before baking. The more, the merrier!
Indulge in Decadent Roasted Cherry Brownies Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Halve the fresh cherries and sprinkle them lightly with sugar. Spread the cherries on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast for about 10 minutes. Allow to cool.
- Lower the oven temperature to 325°F (163°C). In a bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, Dutch process cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt. In another bowl, beat together sugar, eggs, and egg yolk on high for 5 minutes until light and fluffy. Fold in the melted butter, canola oil, and vanilla extract. Gently incorporate the dry ingredients using a rubber spatula.
- Fold in half of the roasted cherries and semi-sweet chocolate chips into the batter. Spread the mixture evenly in a greased and lined 8x8 inch baking dish. Bake for 40-50 minutes until edges are set; the center should be slightly underdone.
- Let the brownies cool for about 15 minutes in the freezer until firm. Top with the remaining roasted cherries before slicing.
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