Easy Cherry Brownies: Rich, Fudgy, and Irresistible
Want to give a classic recipe a fresh twist? Then you HAVE to try cherry brownies. These brownies are the perfect blend of dark chocolate and juicy cherries, making your brownie experience better.
Think about how well chocolate and cherry flavors go together. Well these brownies bring that a fudgy texture that melts in your mouth. This easy brownie recipe is super simple to make.
From the basic recipe, you can feel free to get creative. Like adding chopped nuts for a richer and… well… nuttier flavor. Or decorate your brownies with fresh cherries to add a pop of beauty that doubles down on the cherry flavor. And we probably don’t even have to mention it… but serve these cherry brownies warm with some ice cream and you’ll be in heaven.
Great for Valentine’s Day, or parties, or bake sales… Honestly, any holiday and occasion.
Why Choose Fresh Cherries?
Fresh cherries add a tartness that pairs well with the sweetness of chocolate in brownies. They not only improve the taste but also bring health benefits. Cherries are full of vitamins and antioxidants, making them a healthier choice for desserts.
For the best flavor, use about one cup of halved fresh cherries in your baking. This amount is perfect for a 9×9-inch dish, balancing the brownie’s texture. Enjoying fresh cherries means you’re also getting important nutrients.
If fresh cherries are hard to find, frozen or canned cherries are good alternatives. They still offer great taste, making them a convenient choice for baking all year round.
Adding fresh cherries to your brownies not only makes them taste better but also supports a healthier lifestyle. So, why not enjoy the flavors and health perks of fresh cherries in your next batch of brownies?
| Ingredient | Quantity | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh Cherries | 1 cup, halved | Rich in antioxidants, vitamins A and C |
| Bittersweet Chocolate | 4 ounces | Heart-healthy and adds rich flavor |
| Flour | To be determined by recipe | Source of carbohydrates for energy |
| Sugar | To be determined by recipe | Provides sweetness and moisture |
| Butter | To be determined by recipe | Adds richness and flavor |
Key Ingredients for the Perfect Cherry Brownies
To make the best cherry brownies, knowing the key ingredients is important. Quality ingredients add depth in flavor and texture. The mix of rich Baking Chocolate and delightful Cherry Ingredients makes a treat that’s both satisfying and delicious.
Dark Chocolate
High-quality dark chocolate is essential for the rich taste of cherry brownies. It adds depth and health benefits with its antioxidants. Choosing a good brand improves the flavor.
Fresh Cherries or Cherry Pie Filling
Like we said, for a true burst of flavor, use fresh cherries. Fresh cherries give a strong and vibrant taste. But, if you’re short on time, you can definitely crack open a can of cherry pie filling for convenience. Both options suit different baking styles and preferences.
Dry Ingredients
The right mix of dry ingredients is crucial for the perfect brownie texture. Use 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 2/3 cup of Dutch-processed cocoa powder, and a leavening agent. This mix holds the moistness from chocolate and cherries together.
Step-by-Step Cherry Brownie Recipe
Making the perfect cherry brownies is a fun task. Follow these baking instructions to get rich, fudgy brownies. This recipe will guide you through each step for delicious results.
Prepping the Baking Dish
Start by getting your baking dish ready. Line a 9×9-inch square pan with parchment paper. This makes it easy to remove the brownies after baking. It also helps you get a clean cut and prevents sticking.
Melt Chocolate and Combine Ingredients
Melt 12 tablespoons (170 grams) of unsalted butter and ¾ cup (127 grams) of chopped chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl. Stir until it’s fully melted and mixed. In another bowl, mix 1 ¼ cups (266 grams) of packed brown sugar, 2 large eggs, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Add the melted chocolate mixture to the wet ingredients and blend well.
In a separate bowl, sift together ¾ cup (90 grams) of all-purpose flour, ½ cup (42 grams) of cocoa powder, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients carefully. Then, add 1 cup (113 grams) of chopped cherries. Be careful not to overmix, as it can make the brownies less fudgy.
Baking Time and Techniques
Pour the batter into the prepared dish and spread it evenly. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes. To check if they’re done, insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out with a few moist crumbs. Let the brownies cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 10 minutes before lifting them out using the parchment paper. Cut into 16 squares for serving.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Melted Unsalted Butter | 12 tablespoons (170g) |
| Packed Brown Sugar | 1 ¼ cups (266g) |
| Large Eggs | 2 |
| Vanilla Extract | 2 teaspoons |
| All-Purpose Flour | ¾ cup (90g) |
| Cocoa Powder | ½ cup (42g) |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Chopped Chocolate | ¾ cup (127g) |
| Chopped Cherries | 1 cup (113g) |
This Cherry Brownie Recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare. It includes 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for baking. Enjoy your delicious brownies, knowing you followed the best baking instructions for a rewarding dessert!
Tips for Fudgy and Rich Cherry Brownies
To get the perfect fudgy texture in cherry brownies, pay close attention to detail. Follow a few key practices. These tips will make your baking better and your treats more delicious. Use these Fudgy Brownies Tips to make your cherry brownies even better.
The Importance of Quality Chocolate
Choosing high-quality chocolate is key for flavor and texture. Go for chocolate with a high cocoa content. It tastes richer and is smoother. This follows the Best Baking Practices and makes every bite decadent.
Room Temperature Ingredients
Using room temperature ingredients helps mix better. Let eggs, butter, and other ingredients sit out for 30 minutes. This simple step is crucial for better texture and flavor in your brownies.
Avoiding Overmixing
Don’t overmix, as it makes brownies dense. Mix just until everything is combined. This keeps the batter light and airy. Gentle mixing is key for that fudgy texture and moisture.
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Quality Chocolate | Choose chocolate with high cocoa content for richer flavor. |
| Room Temperature Ingredients | Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for even mixing. |
| Avoid Overmixing | Mix just until combined to prevent dense brownies. |
By following these tips, you can make cherry brownies that are both satisfying and impressive.
Using Cherry Pie Filling for a Quick Shortcut
Want cherry brownies fast? Then Cherry Pie Filling is your answer. It makes baking easy and fast. You can make a delicious dessert in no time.
The cherry pie filling adds a sweet and gooey touch to your brownies. No need to pit and chop cherries. Just open a 21 oz. can and mix it into your brownie mix. It brings back memories of classic cherry desserts, great for any gathering.
Even with this shortcut, your brownies will still be rich. Mix the brownie mix with cherry pie filling, eggs, and almond extract. You’ll get 16 tasty brownies, easy to make and full of flavor.
Baking in a 9×13″ pan or mini muffins saves time. They bake in 25-28 minutes at 350°F. This method is perfect for busy days and fun with kids in the kitchen.
Delicious Variations of Cherry Brownies
Cherry brownies are a great base for getting creative in the kitchen. By trying out different Cherry Brownies Variations, you can take this classic dessert to the next level. Adding nuts, other fruits, or even a cream cheese swirl can bring exciting flavors and textures.
Adding Nuts or Other Fruits
Adding walnuts or pecans turns cherry brownies into Nutty Brownies. These nuts add a nice crunch and boost the flavor. You can also mix in raspberries or strawberries for a fresh twist. This makes each batch special and tailored to your taste.
Creating a Swirl with Cream Cheese
Try making Cream Cheese Brownies for a creamy surprise. Mix cream cheese with sugar and an egg, then fold it into the brownie batter. This creates a marbled look and a tangy contrast to the cherries. It’s sure to wow your guests.
Storing and Freezing Cherry Brownies
To keep your Brownie Freshness at its best, proper storage is key. For a few days, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This way, they stay fresh for up to four days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigeration is the way to go. Chocolate cherry brownies can last up to five days in the fridge, all thanks to an airtight container.
For those who love to enjoy brownies over time, Freezing Brownies is a great option. Wrap each brownie in parchment paper and then put them in a freezer bag or airtight container. This method ensures they stay fresh for up to two months. To thaw a brownie, just leave it at room temperature for a bit before you enjoy it. Plus, using frozen cherries means you can make delicious brownies all year round!
| Storage Method | Duration | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 4 days | Store in an airtight container |
| Refrigeration | Up to 5 days | Airtight container recommended |
| Freezing | Up to 2 months | Wrap individually and use parchment paper |
Serving Suggestions for Cherry Brownies
Cherry brownies are not just tasty, but also a blank canvas for creativity. Thoughtful presentation and smart pairings can make these treats even better. Here are some mouthwatering suggestions.
Pairing with Ice Cream
Pairing brownies with ice cream is a classic idea. Try serving warm brownies with vanilla or cherry ice cream. The cold ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm, fudgy brownies. This combo brings out the cherry flavors and offers a heavenly taste.
You can also try different ice cream flavors like chocolate or salted caramel. This way, you can find your perfect match.
Best Presentation Ideas
Make your cherry brownies look amazing with a few simple steps. Here are some ideas:
- Dust the brownies with powdered sugar for a touch of elegance.
- Drizzle rich chocolate sauce or a homemade cherry glaze on top to add a glossy finish.
- Serve the brownies on a vibrant plate, arranged with fresh cherries for a pop of color.
- Consider using decorative serving dishes to enhance the overall presentation.
Alternatives to Cherry Brownies
Jonesing for rich, fudgy brownies but want something different? Well then try one (or all) of these other brownies recipes…
Peppermint Bark Brownies. Perfect for the Christmas Holidays, but honestly a true crowd pleaser year round.
Or, how about Gingerbread Brownies? The flavor combo is out of this world, and you’ll wow all your guests GUARANTEED!
Need more inspiration? Check out these other super easy dessert recipes!
