If you are on the hunt for a dessert that combines rich chocolate goodness with the natural burst of juicy fruit, look no further than this Roasted Cherry Brownies Recipe. These brownies are a decadent treat where tender chunks of roasted cherries peek through fudgy chocolate, creating a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. The roasting process intensifies the cherries’ sweetness while adding a subtle caramelized complexity that elevates the classic brownie to something truly special. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving a homemade indulgence, this recipe will quickly become a cherished favorite in your dessert repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Roasted Cherry Brownies Recipe plays an essential role, contributing to the depth of flavor, tender crumb, and luscious texture. With simple pantry staples and fresh cherries combined, you’ll appreciate how each component shines in the final dish.
- 2 cups sweet cherries, pitted and halved: Roasting these enhances their natural sweetness and gives a vibrant fruity punch.
- 2 teaspoons granulated sugar: Added to the cherries before roasting, it helps create a sweet caramelized glaze.
- 1 ¼ cups semisweet chocolate chips, divided: Melting half into the batter adds moistness, while folding in the rest provides delightful chocolate bursts.
- ¾ cup vegetable oil: Keeps the brownies incredibly moist and tender without overpowering the chocolate flavor.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter while helping create that signature chewy brownie crust.
- ⅔ cup light brown sugar, packed: Adds a hint of molasses richness that deepens the overall flavor.
- 3 large eggs, room temperature: Provide structure and richness, helping the brownies rise just enough without losing fudginess.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors and adds warmth to every bite.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: The base that holds everything together while keeping the crumb tender.
- 1 cup Dutch-processed cocoa powder: Gives these brownies their deep, intense chocolate color and flavor.
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Balances sweetness and enhances chocolate notes for a perfectly rounded taste.
How to Make Roasted Cherry Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Roast the Cherries
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, spread the halved cherries evenly, and sprinkle them with 2 teaspoons of granulated sugar. Roasting the cherries for 10 minutes helps concentrate their sweetness and gives them a beautiful roasted depth that pairs perfectly with the rich chocolate in these brownies. Once roasted, set them aside to cool—this cooling period allows the cherries to firm up slightly, ready to be nestled into your brownie batter.
Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Melt Chocolate
Lower your oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine half of your semisweet chocolate chips with the vegetable oil. Microwave this mixture in short 15-second bursts, stirring well each time, until the chocolate is fully melted and glossy. This silky chocolate oil mixture will infuse the brownies with moistness and richness, setting the stage for that luscious texture everyone loves.
Step 3: Whip the Sugar and Eggs
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whip these ingredients on high speed for 5 to 6 minutes until the mixture lightens in color and doubles in volume. This step is crucial because it incorporates air, lending the brownies a tender lift and making them delightfully cakey-fudgy. Remember to scrape down the bowl sides now and then—it helps everything mix evenly!
Step 4: Incorporate the Chocolate and Dry Ingredients
Switch your mixer to low and gradually pour in the cooled melted chocolate and oil mixture. Blend just until combined, then whisk together your flour, Dutch-processed cocoa powder, and kosher salt in a separate bowl. Slowly add this dry mix into your wet ingredients, folding gently to preserve all that aeration from the eggs. Finally, fold in the remaining chocolate chips and half of the roasted cherries, ensuring bursts of chocolate and juicy fruit are evenly scattered throughout your brownie batter.
Step 5: Bake Your Brownies
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared baking dish and smooth the surface. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, testing doneness with a toothpick inserted into the center—it should come out with moist crumbs but no raw batter. This timing nails the perfect fudgy interior with a slight crust on top, creating that irresistible texture contrast that makes brownies so loved. Once baked, immediately scatter the remaining roasted cherries on top; this final touch adds gorgeous color and a fresh fruity layer to the finished product.
Step 6: Cool and Cut
Allow the brownies to cool slightly in the pan, about 15 to 20 minutes, before slicing into squares. This rest time helps them set up nicely, making cutting clean and easy. The result? Each piece bursting with gooey chocolate and pockets of those luscious roasted cherries, promising a bite that is both indulgent and delightfully fresh.
How to Serve Roasted Cherry Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
When it comes to garnishing your Roasted Cherry Brownies Recipe, simple is best. A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a delicate elegance and a touch of sweetness. For an extra decadent touch, whip up some fresh cream or vanilla bean ice cream to melt over your warm brownies, creating a lovely contrast that brightens each bite. Toasted chopped nuts like pecans or almonds also lend a wonderful crunch and a hint of savory depth that complements both chocolate and cherry perfectly.
Side Dishes
Serve these brownies alongside fresh berries or a bright citrus salad to balance the rich chocolate flavor with zingy freshness. A cup of hot coffee or creamy hot chocolate elevates the experience even further, making any gathering feel cozy and special. For a grown-up twist, a glass of fruity red wine or a cherry-infused cocktail pairs beautifully with the roasted cherry notes in the brownies.
Creative Ways to Present
Get creative by serving these brownies as individual mini brownie parfaits layered with mascarpone cheese and whole roasted cherries in small glasses—perfect for dinner parties. You could also sandwich them with cherry jam and cream cheese frosting for a fun twist. Another idea is to cube the brownies and toss them with fresh fruit and chocolate sauce for an irresistible brownie trifle that’s both visually stunning and delightfully indulgent.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Roasted Cherry Brownies Recipe pieces store beautifully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Keeping them in a cool, dry place ensures they maintain their fudgy texture without becoming dry or hard. If your kitchen is warm, popping them in the fridge will also do the trick, just allow them to come back to room temperature before enjoying.
Freezing
You can freeze the brownies for longer storage without losing that irresistible flavor. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe zip-top bag or container. They’ll keep perfectly for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or gently warm in the microwave for a soft, freshly baked texture.
Reheating
For warm, melty brownies, reheat individual pieces in the microwave in 15-second intervals until just warm. You can also warm them briefly in a preheated 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes. This softens the brownies nicely and revives that fresh-baked sensation, especially wonderful when topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cherries for this Roasted Cherry Brownies Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before roasting to avoid excess moisture in the batter. Roasting will still bring out their sweetness nicely.
What if I don’t have Dutch-processed cocoa powder?
You can substitute with regular unsweetened cocoa powder, but the brownies might be slightly less smooth and have a brighter chocolate flavor rather than the deep, mellow notes Dutch-processed provides.
How do I know when the brownies are perfectly baked?
The best test is to insert a toothpick into the center. Look for moist crumbs clinging to it but no raw batter. This means your brownies will be fudgy and tender, not dry.
Can I substitute the vegetable oil for butter?
Yes, melted unsalted butter works well and adds a lovely richness, but the texture might be a tad denser compared to oil, which keeps brownies moist and slightly lighter.
Are roasted cherries necessary for this recipe?
Roasting the cherries elevates their flavor by caramelizing their natural sugars, adding complexity that fresh cherries alone can’t provide. It’s worth the extra step for the flavor boost!
Final Thoughts
This Roasted Cherry Brownies Recipe is the perfect way to elevate a classic chocolate treat with the natural brightness of roasted cherries. It’s a recipe that brings warmth, joy, and a touch of gourmet magic to your kitchen, impressing friends and family with every fudgy, fruity bite. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own delicious tradition!
Print
Roasted Cherry Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these rich and fudgy roasted cherry brownies that combine the deep flavors of Dutch-processed cocoa and semisweet chocolate with sweet, oven-roasted cherries. Perfectly moist with bursts of juicy fruit, these brownies offer a sophisticated twist on a classic favorite, ideal for dessert or a special treat.
Ingredients
Roasted Cherries
- 2 cups (276 g) sweet cherries, pitted and halved
- 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
Brownie Batter
- 1 ¼ cups (227.5 g) semisweet chocolate chips, divided
- ¾ cup (163.5 g) vegetable oil
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- ⅔ cup (133 g) light brown sugar, packed
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (118 g) Dutch-processed cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions
- Roast the Cherries: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and easy cleanup. Spread the halved cherries evenly on the sheet and sprinkle 2 teaspoons of granulated sugar over them to enhance their natural sweetness. Roast the cherries in the hot oven for 10 minutes until slightly softened and caramelized. Remove them from the oven and set aside to cool while you prepare the brownies.
- Prepare the Brownie Pan and Oven: Lower the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 9×9-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to ensure the brownies release easily after baking. Set this dish aside and ready for the batter.
- Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine ½ cup of the semisweet chocolate chips with the vegetable oil. Microwave the mixture in 15-second bursts, stirring thoroughly between each interval, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth. Set the melted chocolate mixture aside to cool slightly before adding to the batter.
- Mix the Sugars and Eggs: Using a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, beat together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract on high speed. Continue mixing for 5 to 6 minutes until the mixture is light in color and has doubled in volume. Be sure to scrape down the bowl sides as needed to incorporate all ingredients evenly.
- Combine Melted Chocolate and Sugar-Egg Mixture: Reduce the mixer speed to low and slowly drizzle in the melted chocolate and oil mixture. Mix just until combined, ensuring you don’t overwork the batter and lose the aeration from beating.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, Dutch-processed cocoa powder, and kosher salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients in the stand mixer, mixing gently until everything is just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender crumb.
- Add Chocolate Chips and Cherries: Fold in the remaining ¾ cup of semisweet chocolate chips along with half of the roasted cherries. This will create delightful pockets of melted chocolate and bursts of fruity flavor throughout the brownies.
- Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter into the prepared 9×9-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Bake in the preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 30 to 35 minutes. The brownies are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs but no wet batter.
- Add Topping and Cool: Remove the brownies from the oven and immediately scatter the remaining roasted cherries on top. Allow the brownies to cool slightly to set before slicing into 12 squares for serving.
Notes
- Using room temperature eggs helps achieve a better rise and more even mixing.
- Sifting the cocoa powder before mixing can help avoid clumps and yield a smoother batter.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder to the dry ingredients.
- Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- To intensify cherry flavor, marinate cherries in a splash of cherry liqueur before roasting.
