Name: Irresistibly Fudgy Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 110 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Fresh Cherries (Cut in half; Frozen cherries can be used; just thaw and pat dry before using.); 1 cup Granulated Sugar (Adjust based on the tartness of your cherries.); 2 large Eggs (Essential for structure and moisture; using a whisk attachment helps incorporate air effectively.); 1/4 cup Unsalted Butter (Melted; substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free version if needed.); 1/4 cup Canola Oil (Feel free to use olive oil as an alternative.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (Sift to avoid lumps for a smoother batter.); 1/2 cup Dutch Process Cocoa Powder (Opt for high-quality cocoa for the richest taste.); 2 tablespoons Cornstarch (Adds a chewy texture.); 1/2 teaspoon Salt (Balances the sweetness.); 1 cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (Swap for dark chocolate chips for a more intense flavor.); 1 scoop Vanilla Ice Cream (Serve warm brownies with a scoop for a delightful dessert experience.)

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As the aroma of baked chocolate fills the kitchen, I can’t help but get excited about these Ultimate Fudgy Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies. They’re the kind of treat that blends sweet nostalgia with a modern twist, thanks to the tartness of roasted cherries. This recipe offers the perfect balance of fudgy texture and fruity brightness, ensuring a crowd-pleasing dessert for any occasion. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to whip up, making them a delightful homemade alternative to store-bought brownies. Whether you’re celebrating a special day or simply in need of a sweet escape, these brownies are sure to impress. Curious about how to make these heavenly bites? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why Are These Brownies So Irresistible?

Indulgent Chocolate Flavor: The generous amount of Dutch process cocoa creates a deep, rich chocolate experience that you’ll crave.

Juicy Roasted Cherries: Each bite is perfectly complemented by the tartness of roasted cherries, adding an unexpected twist to a classic dessert.

Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly. Even novice bakers will find success!

Versatile and Fun: Feel free to mix it up—try adding nuts or switching the cherries for other fruits, such as blueberries, for a deliciously unique treat.

Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for sharing at gatherings or special occasions, these brownies are sure to win over friends and family. Whether enjoyed on their own or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra decadence, they’re a hit every time! For more delightful recipes, check out my Cherry Cheese Danish or Vegan Chocolate Chip.

Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies Ingredients

For the Brownie Batter

Cherries – Fresh, cut in half; these add natural sweetness and moisture. Substitution Note: Frozen cherries can be used; just thaw and pat dry before using.
Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and moisture; you can adjust the amount based on the tartness of your cherries.
Eggs & Egg Yolk – Essential for structure and moisture while creating that delightful crinkle top; using a whisk attachment helps incorporate air effectively.
Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and flavor; substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free version if needed.
Canola or Vegetable Oil – Contributes to moistness; feel free to use olive oil as an alternative.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor of the brownies.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; sifting it avoids lumps for a smoother batter.
Dutch Process Cocoa Powder – Gives a deep, chocolate flavor; opt for high-quality cocoa for the richest taste.
Cornstarch – This ingredient adds a chewy texture to the brownies.
Salt – Balances the sweetness of the chocolate and cherries.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Adds extra chocolate goodness; you can swap these for dark chocolate chips for a more intense flavor.

For Serving Suggestions

Vanilla Ice Cream – Serve warm brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.

Enjoy creating your scrumptious Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

Step 1: Roast the Cherries
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while you prepare the cherries. Cut fresh cherries in half and spread them evenly on a lined baking sheet. Lightly sprinkle with granulated sugar, then roast for about 10 minutes, or until they start to soften and release their juices. Once done, remove from the oven and allow them to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan
After the cherries have cooled, reduce your oven temperature to 325°F (160°C). Take an 8×8 inch baking pan, spray it with non-stick spray, and line it with parchment paper for easy removal. This will ensure your roasted chocolate cherry brownies come out beautifully without sticking.

Step 3: Sift the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, Dutch process cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt. This step is crucial for achieving a silky brownie batter, so be thorough! Once sifted, set the dry mixture aside to focus on the wet ingredients that will bring the roasted chocolate cherry brownies to life.

Step 4: Whip the Eggs and Sugar
In a separate mixing bowl, use a whisk attachment to beat together the eggs, egg yolk, and granulated sugar on high speed for about 5 minutes. You’re aiming for a pale-yellow, fluffy mixture that will give your brownies a delightful crinkle top. The color change is a sign you’ve incorporated enough air into the mixture.

Step 5: Incorporate the Wet Ingredients
Melt some unsalted butter and allow it to cool slightly before adding it to the egg mixture along with canola oil and vanilla extract. Mix on low speed until everything is well combined. This ensures the rich flavors meld to create a fudgy base for your roasted chocolate cherry brownies.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gently fold the sifted dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula. Take care to mix until just combined—overmixing can lead to a dense texture. Once incorporated, add half of the cooled roasted cherries and semi-sweet chocolate chips to the batter, folding them in gently for even distribution.

Step 7: Bake the Brownies
Pour the brownie batter into your prepared pan, smoothing it evenly with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for about 40–50 minutes. You’re looking for set edges and a slightly jiggly center. To ensure doneness, do a toothpick test; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, indicating your brownies are perfectly fudgy.

Step 8: Cool and Serve
Let the brownies cool in the pan for about 30 minutes before transferring them to the freezer for another 15 minutes to firm up. This step helps with clean slicing. Finally, top the brownies with the remaining roasted cherries, slice into generous squares, and serve warm for an irresistible treat!

Expert Tips for Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

Egg Beating: Ensure to beat the eggs thoroughly for a light and airy texture, which creates that desired crinkly top.
Cherry Placement: Avoid placing cherries on top before baking to prevent excess moisture from affecting the brownie texture.
Cooling Time: Allow brownies to cool completely in the pan for clean cuts; this is key for a beautiful presentation of your roasted chocolate cherry brownies.
Testing Doneness: Check for doneness with a toothpick—it should come out with a few moist crumbs; overbaking will dry out the brownies.
Ingredient Quality: Opt for high-quality Dutch process cocoa powder and chocolate chips for the richest flavor in your brownies.
Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to swap cherries for other fruits or add nuts to cater to your taste preferences and make this dessert your own!

Storage Tips for Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

Room Temperature: Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days to maintain their fudgy texture.

Fridge: If you prefer a slightly chilled treat, keep brownies in the fridge for up to a week. Make sure they’re well-wrapped to prevent drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze brownies in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating: Warm brownies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a gooey experience that enhances the delicious chocolate cherry flavor.

What to Serve with Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

There’s nothing quite like indulging in a decadent dessert as the rich chocolate aroma fills your kitchen, perfect for creating an unforgettable meal experience.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream complements the brownies’ fudginess, adding a cool contrast that elevates each bite.
Fresh Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream brings a fluffy texture that balances the dense chocolate and tart cherry flavors wonderfully.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over the brownies for an extra indulgent touch that chocolate lovers will adore!
Coffee: A rich, brewed coffee enhances the chocolate flavor and provides a delightful counterpoint to the sweetness of the brownies.
Berry Compote: Serve with a side of warm berry compote to introduce bright, fresh fruit notes that play beautifully against the fudgy brownies.
Chopped Nuts: Add a sprinkle of toasted walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture that contrasts the chewy brownie and adds depth to each bite.
Sparkling Water: For a refreshing palate cleanser, accompany your brownies with a glass of sparkling water infused with lime or lemon.
Mint Tea: The refreshing notes of mint tea provide a fragrant finish to your dessert experience while aiding digestion after a rich treat.
Cheese Plate: A selection of creamy cheeses, like Brie or mascarpone, pairs surprisingly well, creating a delightful sweet-and-savory combination.
Dark Chocolate: For true enthusiasts, dark chocolate shavings on top can amplify the chocolate experience, intensifying the dessert’s flavor profile.

Make Ahead Options

These Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can roast the cherries up to 24 hours in advance; just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their flavor and moisture. The brownie batter can also be prepared ahead of time and kept in the fridge for up to 3 days—just be sure to cover it tightly to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour the chilled batter into the prepared pan, add the roasted cherries on top, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy delicious, homemade brownies without the last-minute rush!

Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists on the original roasted chocolate cherry brownies for an exciting take on a classic dessert.

Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that contrasts with the fudgy texture. The added nuttiness brings a comforting element that enhances every bite.
Fruit Swaps: Substitute cherries with berries like raspberries or blueberries for vibrant flavor. Each berry offers a different acidity that interacts beautifully with chocolate!
Coconut Flavor: Replace butter with coconut oil for a subtle coconut flavor that pairs wonderfully with chocolate. This swap adds a tropical flair to your brownies, making them wonderfully unique!
Almond Extract: Use almond extract instead of vanilla for an aromatic twist that elevates the flavor profile. The slight nuttiness complements the chocolate superbly!
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of cinnamon for a delightful warmth that will surprise your taste buds. This unexpected spice elevates the traditional brownie experience!
Chocolate Overload: Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate chips to take your chocolate to the next level. It creates an indulgent, rich flavor that true chocolate lovers will appreciate.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious dessert that caters to those with dietary needs. You won’t sacrifice flavor or texture!
Ice Cream Pairing: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience that melds warm and cold. The creamy ice cream perfectly complements the fudginess of the brownies.

With all these variations, there’s something for everyone. Don’t forget to check out my Chocolate Croissant Bake for another deliciously sweet treat!

Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies Recipe FAQs

What type of cherries should I use for the brownies?
Fresh cherries are best for this recipe as they provide natural sweetness and moisture. However, if fresh cherries aren’t available, you can absolutely use frozen cherries. Just remember to thaw them first and pat them dry with a paper towel to avoid adding excess moisture to your brownie batter.

How should I store leftover brownies?
To keep your roasted chocolate cherry brownies perfectly fudgy, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you prefer a chilled treat, you can refrigerate them, but ensure they are wrapped well to avoid drying out. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to a month.

Can I freeze roasted chocolate cherry brownies?
Yes, you can! To freeze, cut the brownies into squares and wrap them individually in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm them up in the microwave for a few seconds to regain that gooey texture.

What should I do if my brownies are too cakey?
If your brownies turn out too cakey, there are a few things you can double-check for next time. Make sure you’re not overmixing the batter after adding the dry ingredients; this can incorporate too much air and create a more cake-like texture. Also, ensure you’re accurately measuring your ingredients; too much flour can lead to drier, cakey brownies. For a fudgier texture, ensure to bake them just until the edges are set, and the center remains slightly jiggly.

Are there any dietary considerations for these brownies?
The roasted chocolate cherry brownies contain eggs and butter, making them unsuitable for strict vegans and those with egg allergies. Feel free to substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg) and use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free alternative. Always verify that your chocolate chips are dairy-free if following a vegan or dairy-restricted diet.

Can I add other fruits or nuts to the recipe?
Absolutely! I love experimenting with different flavors. You can easily swap the cherries for berries like raspberries or blueberries, or even add roasted nuts such as walnuts or pecans for extra texture. Just be sure to complement the fruit’s sweetness with the right amount of sugar based on its tartness!

These Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies are bound to become a beloved recipe for everyone at your table—enjoy!