Indulge in Irresistible Cherry Chocolate Brownies Recipe!

There’s something just magical about the combination of cherries and chocolate, isn’t there? It takes me back to warm summer afternoons spent in my grandmother’s kitchen. The air was thick with the intoxicating scent of chocolate melting and the tart aroma of fresh cherries. Those afternoons were filled with laughter and, of course, a few cheeky bites of whatever we had just baked! Today, I’m excited to share one of my all-time favorite recipes: Cherry Chocolate Brownies. Not only do these brownies blend the rich, fudgy goodness of chocolate with the bright pop of cherry, but they also bring a wave of nostalgia that makes every bite feel like a hug. Let’s dive into this deliciousness together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent and rich chocolate flavor complemented by sweet cherries.
• Easy to make with simple ingredients, perfect for a weeknight treat.
• Great for using up fresh cherries during the summer months.
• It’s a crowd-pleaser—no one can resist a good brownie!
• Perfectly chewy texture that melts in your mouth.

Ingredients

Before we jump into the baking, let’s gather our ingredients. You want them fresh and ready to go! Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (use pure for best flavor)
• 1 cup (130g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (85g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (150g) fresh cherries, pitted and halved (or frozen, thawed)
• ½ cup (90g) semi-sweet chocolate chips

Note: Fresh cherries add a delightful burst of flavor, but if they aren’t in season, frozen ones work just fine!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that we have everything ready, let’s get baking!

1. Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan. I love using parchment paper for easy removal!
2. Mix the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the melted butter and sugar, whisking until smooth and creamy. This step is crucial for creating that delicious fudgy texture.
3. Add the eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Make sure to incorporate them fully – the mixture should be glossy and well-blended.
4. Combine the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. This ensures every bite is perfectly chocolatey!
5. Mix it all together: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Pro tip: Avoid overmixing; it keeps the brownies tender instead of tough.
6. Fold in cherries and chocolate chips: Gently fold in the pitted cherries and chocolate chips until they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter. Can you smell that? The chocolate aroma is heavenly!
7. Pour into your pan: Scrape the batter into the prepared baking pan. Spread it out evenly with a spatula. This batter is so rich—don’t be surprised if a spoonful “disappears” into your mouth!
8. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Remember, a little gooeyness is perfect for brownies!

Pro Tips & Variations

Feel like getting creative? Here are some fun twists and variations you can try:

• Nutty goodness: Add a cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor.
• Spicy kick: A pinch of cinnamon or a dash of cayenne pepper can add a fun twist to the chocolate flavor.
• Diet swaps: Try substituting coconut oil for butter for a dairy-free version, or use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
• Extra chocolate: Swap in white chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate over the top before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serving up these Cherry Chocolate Brownies is all about the experience! Here’s how I love to present them:

• Warm out of the oven with a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting over the top—heavenly!
• Dust with powdered sugar for a touch of elegance if you’re serving guests.
• Packed in a cute box or basket, they make a perfect homemade gift for friends and family.

Pair it with a steaming cup of coffee or a chilled glass of milk to take this experience to the next level! Just imagine sinking into a cozy blanket with a brownie in hand—it’s pure bliss!

Storage Tips

Now, if you somehow have leftovers (which is rare), here’s how to keep those delicious brownies fresh:

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigeration: If you want them to last longer, they can be kept in the fridge for about a week.
• Freezing: Wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can last for up to 3 months!
• Reheating: To enjoy them warm, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. They’ll be just as gooey and delicious as the day they were baked!

FAQs

Can I use dried cherries instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Dried cherries will give a more concentrated burst of flavor. Just soak them in warm water for about 10 minutes to plump them up before mixing them into the batter.

What can I substitute for cocoa powder?

If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use unsweetened carob powder. It has a different flavor but can create a lovely brownie as well!

How can I tell when the brownies are done baking?

The best way to check is by inserting a toothpick into the center. It should come out with a few moist crumbs—not wet batter. Remember, they’ll continue to firm up as they cool!

Can I add more cherries?

Yes, you can definitely add more cherries if you love that tangy flavor! Just keep in mind too many extra cherries might alter the texture a bit, making them more gooey.

Conclusion

I hope this recipe for Cherry Chocolate Brownies brings as much joy to your kitchen as it has in mine. Don’t forget to share your own baking adventures in the comments below! I love hearing how you make this recipe your own. Grab your apron and let’s get baking—deliciousness awaits!