Chocolate Cherry Brownies

There’s something undeniably inviting about the combination of rich chocolate and bright, tart cherries. It brings back memories of summer days when my family would gather at the park for picnics, sharing laughter and homemade treats. Among those was always a plate of brownies, a beloved indulgence that made everyone smile. Today, I’m excited to introduce you to a delightful twist on this classic dessert: Chocolate Cherry Brownies.

Imagine biting into a fudgy brownie, the velvety dark chocolate melting in your mouth, complemented by the sweet and slightly tart burst of fresh cherries. Each piece is more than just a dessert; it’s an experience that transports you to those joyful summer days, no matter the season. So, let’s dive into this deliciously sweet adventure together!

Recipe Timing

• Prep Duration: 15 minutes
• Active Cooking: 30 minutes
• Total Duration: 45 minutes
• Portion Size: 12 servings
• Complexity: Simple

Nutritional Recipe

• Calories per portion: Approximately 320
• Protein: 4 grams
• Carbs: 47 grams
• Fats: 15 grams
• Fiber: 2 grams
• Sugars: 32 grams
• Sodium: 90 mg

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Cherry Brownies

These Chocolate Cherry Brownies are a true crowd-pleaser! They’re the kind of dessert that combines the best of both worlds—decadent chocolate and fruity goodness. Perfect for gatherings, birthdays, or simply treating yourself on a cozy evening, they capture a delightful balance of flavors that feels both nostalgic and refreshing. Plus, they’re straightforward to make, which means you’ll be enjoying them in no time!

The Complete Cooking Journey

From melting the butter to folding in those vibrant chopped cherries and chocolate chips, the process of making these brownies is filled with sensory delights. You’ll feel the warmth of the kitchen as the butter melts and the sugar transforms, and the tantalizing aroma of baking chocolate will fill your home, inviting everyone to gather around for a taste.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup butter
• 2 cups sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup sweet cherries, pitted and chopped
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Method:

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Dish

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to ensure your brownies come out easily.

Step 2: Melt and Mix

In a large bowl, melt the butter and mix in the sugar until well combined. You should have a glossy mixture that will create a deliciously fudgy texture.

Step 3: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the buttery vanilla extract, which adds a subtle warmth to the brownies.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. This will create the rich, chocolatey foundation for your delicious brownies.

Step 5: Mix Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want to keep that fudgy texture.

Step 6: Fold in Cherries and Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the chopped cherries and chocolate chips, ensuring an even distribution throughout the batter. The cherries will add a lovely pop of color and flavor!

Step 7: Spread the Batter

Spread the brownie mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula to create a beautiful, uniform surface.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs. Your kitchen will smell like heaven—trust me!

Step 9: Cool and Slice

Allow brownies to cool before cutting into squares and serving. Patience is key here; let the brownies firm up a bit for the perfect bite!

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Serve these Chocolate Cherry Brownies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat. They also pair well with a cup of coffee or a tall glass of cold milk. For an extra fancy touch, you could drizzle some chocolate ganache or a dusting of powdered sugar on top!

Storage & Leftovers Guide

Store your brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer freshness, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. To enjoy them later, simply warm them up in the microwave for a few seconds.

Kitchen Wisdom & Success Tips

1. Make sure your butter is melted but not hot when mixing with the sugar to avoid scrambling the eggs.
2. Using fresh cherries will yield the best flavor; however, you can also use frozen cherries if fresh ones aren’t available.
3. Don’t overmix the batter after adding the flour; this helps maintain a fudgy texture.

Flavor Variations & Adaptations

Feeling adventurous? Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder for a deeper chocolate flavor, or mix in some nuts for added crunch. You can even swap out the cherries for raspberries or strawberries for a different twist!

Reader Questions & Solutions

1. Can I use margarine instead of butter? Yes, but the texture and flavor will be slightly different. Butter gives the brownies a richer taste.
2. How can I make these brownies gluten-free? Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
3. What if I don’t have cherries? You can use other fruits like raspberries, or even just stick to chocolate chips for a classic brownie.
4. Can the sugar be reduced? You can reduce the sugar slightly, but it may affect the texture and sweetness.
5. How do I know when they’re done? The toothpick test is your best friend; look for moist crumbs but not wet batter.

Wrapping Up

These Chocolate Cherry Brownies are a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will surely become a favorite in your home. Whether you make them for a special occasion or just to enjoy on a cozy night, they’re the perfect treat. So, gather your ingredients and start baking! You won’t regret it. Happy cooking!

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