Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

These Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies are the perfect indulgence for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a cozy night in, or a festive celebration. The combination of rich chocolate and roasted cherries creates a fudgy brownie experience unlike any other. With their irresistible flavor and beautiful presentation, these brownies are sure to impress everyone at the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fudgy Texture: These brownies are incredibly moist and chewy, making every bite a delight.
• Rich Flavor: The depth of chocolate combined with the sweetness of roasted cherries creates a luxurious taste.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions, even beginner bakers can master this recipe.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them warm with ice cream or cold as a snack; they’re delightful either way!
• Perfect for Sharing: Cut into 16 pieces, these brownies are ideal for parties and gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies, gather your tools and prepare your workspace for an efficient baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or mixer with whisk attachment
• Rubber spatula
• 8X8 baking pan
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl is essential for combining ingredients without spills.
• Whisk or mixer with whisk attachment: Helps achieve fluffy eggs and sugar mixture for that light texture.
• Rubber spatula: Ideal for gently folding in ingredients while preserving air in the batter.

Ingredients

These cherry brownies are super fudgy chocolate brownies. They are filled and topped with roasted cherries.

For the Brownie Batter

• 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

How to Make Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the halved cherries over the parchment paper and sprinkle with sugar. Bake for 10 minutes until they soften. Allow them to cool before using.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Lower your oven temperature to 325°F. Spray an 8X8 pan with non-stick baking spray. Line the bottom and two sides with parchment paper, then spray again lightly.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt. Set this dry mixture aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

Using a mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, beat together the granulated sugar, eggs, and egg yolk on high speed for about 5 minutes until light and fluffy. Meanwhile, melt the butter slightly so it cools down before adding it to the mix along with oil and vanilla extract. Mix on low speed until combined.

Step 5: Fold in Dry Ingredients

Remove the mixing bowl from the stand mixer. Gently fold in your dry ingredients using a rubber spatula; be careful not to deflate your mixture.

Step 6: Add Cherries and Chocolate Chips

Take half of the roasted cherries and gently fold them into your brownie batter along with chocolate chips until evenly mixed. Pour this fudgy batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly across.

Step 7: Bake

Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for about 40-50 minutes. The brownies will be ready when the edges look set but the center remains slightly underdone. For an extra touch of indulgence, sprinkle some additional chocolate chips on top. Let it cool completely in the pan before moving on to cutting.

Step 8: Final Touches

Once cooled, place brownies in the freezer for about 15 minutes to set further. Afterward, remove from the pan, top with remaining roasted cherries, cut into squares, and serve!

How to Serve Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

Serving Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies can elevate your dessert experience. These fudgy brownies, topped with roasted cherries, are perfect for a variety of occasions. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your enjoyment.

Pair with Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic combination of warm brownies and cold vanilla ice cream creates a delicious contrast.
• Cherry Sorbet: For a fruity twist, serve with cherry sorbet to complement the roasted cherries.

Drizzle with Sauce

• Chocolate Sauce: A rich chocolate sauce adds extra indulgence and enhances the chocolate flavor.
• Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of caramel provides a sweet, buttery balance to the tartness of the cherries.

Garnish Creatively

• Fresh Mint Leaves: Adding mint leaves not only looks appealing but also adds a fresh flavor.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream on top makes for a light and creamy addition.

Serve Warm or Cold

• Warm Brownies: Serve them warm for that gooey texture that everyone loves.
• Chilled Slices: For a different texture, refrigerate the brownies before serving for a firmer bite.

How to Perfect Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

To make your Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies truly exceptional, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Cherries: Fresh, ripe cherries yield the best flavor and texture. Avoid overripe or mushy cherries.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense brownies.
• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures for perfectly cooked brownies.
• Cool Completely: Allow the brownies to cool in the pan before cutting; this helps them firm up and hold their shape better.
• Experiment with Toppings: Try different toppings like nuts or sea salt to add unique flavors and textures.

Best Side Dishes for Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies can be enjoyed alongside various side dishes that complement their rich flavors. Here are some excellent options.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness to balance the sweetness of the brownies.
2. Cheese Platter: Include cheeses like brie or gouda for a savory contrast that enhances the dessert experience.
3. Nut Assortment: A bowl of mixed nuts provides crunch and balances the fudgy texture of the brownies.
4. Coffee or Espresso: A strong cup of coffee pairs beautifully with chocolate desserts, enhancing their rich flavors.
5. Chocolate Fondue: For chocolate lovers, set up a fondue station where guests can dip fruits or marshmallows into melted chocolate.
6. Mini Cheesecakes: These creamy desserts offer a nice contrast while still being indulgent enough to accompany the brownies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies can be a delightful experience, but avoiding common mistakes will ensure your brownies turn out perfectly.

• Skipping the Roasting Step: Roasting cherries enhances their flavor and sweetness. Don’t skip this; it adds depth to your brownies.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can lead to tough brownies. Fold gently to maintain a fudgy texture.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Use precise measurements for flour and cocoa. Too much or too little can dramatically affect the outcome.
• Using Old Ingredients: Ensure your baking ingredients are fresh. Old baking soda or powder can affect rising and taste.
• Ignoring Baking Times: Every oven is different. Check for doneness at the lower end of the time range to avoid overbaking.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep in the fridge if you live in a warm climate.

Freezing Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

• Wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm brownies for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 20-30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat, covered, for a few minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Ensure it has xanthan gum for binding.

Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen cherries work well. Just be sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before using them in the recipe.

What can I add to my Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies?

Feel free to add nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, or use different types of chocolate chips for added flavor.

How do I know when the brownies are done?

The edges should be set while the center looks slightly underdone. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely! Just use a larger pan and adjust baking time accordingly to ensure even cooking.

Final Thoughts

These Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies are not just another dessert; they offer a rich, fudgy experience accentuated by the sweet tang of roasted cherries. Their versatility allows you to customize with nuts or different chocolates, making them perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe today and enjoy an indulgent treat that everyone will love!