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Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies are the ultimate indulgence for fudgy brownie lovers. These decadent treats are packed with chocolate chips and filled with roasted fresh cherries, offering a burst of flavor in every bite. Perfect for any occasion, especially Valentine’s Day, these brownies are sure to impress with their rich chocolatey goodness and delightful cherry infusion.
I first made these brownies for a family gathering, and they were an instant hit. The combination of rich chocolate and roasted cherries created a memorable dessert that everyone loved.
Ingredients Insights
- Cherries: Fresh cherries are ideal for this recipe. I prefer sweet cherries when they are in season for the best flavor.
- Eggs + Egg Yolk: Using both eggs and an extra yolk adds fat, contributing to the fudgy texture.
- Butter + Oil: Butter provides a rich flavor, while oil ensures the brownies remain fudgy.
- Dutch-Process Cocoa Powder: This type of cocoa powder offers a smoother, richer chocolate flavor.
- Cornstarch: Helps achieve the desired fudgy consistency in the brownies.
- Chocolate Chips: Semisweet or dark chocolate chips work best, adding pockets of melted chocolate throughout.
Baking Instructions
- Prepare the Cherries:
- Start by cutting 2 cups of fresh cherries in half. Place them on a parchment-lined cookie sheet, sprinkle with sugar, and bake for 10 minutes to roast. Let them cool while preparing the batter.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- Sift the flour and cocoa powder to avoid lumps, then combine with other dry ingredients in a large bowl.
- Beat Eggs and Sugar:
- Using a mixer with a whisk attachment, beat the eggs and sugar on high speed for 5 minutes. This step is crucial for creating the crinkle top. Add butter, oil, and vanilla extract to the mixture.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a rubber spatula. Stir in half of the roasted cherries and all the chocolate chips. Pour the batter into an 8x8 inch baking dish.
- Bake the Brownies:
- Bake for 40-50 minutes. The brownies should be slightly underdone as they continue to cook in the hot pan while cooling. Check with a toothpick; it should come out with a few moist crumbs. Let them cool completely on a cooling rack.
- Chill and Top:
- Freeze the brownies for 15 minutes to firm up, then top with the remaining roasted cherries for an extra burst of flavor.
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I particularly enjoy the combination of roasted cherries and rich chocolate in these brownies. The roasting process brings out a natural sweetness in the cherries that pairs beautifully with the deep chocolate flavor. My family often requests these brownies for special occasions, and they never disappoint.
Serving Suggestions
- Ice Cream Pairing: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds a light, creamy element to the rich brownies.
- Fresh Berries: Accompany with fresh raspberries or strawberries for a fruity complement.
Variations
- Nutty Addition: Sprinkle chopped nuts on top before baking for added crunch.
- White Chocolate: Swap semisweet chocolate chips for white chocolate for a different flavor profile.
- Espresso Powder: Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the batter to enhance the chocolate flavor.
Storage and Reheating
Store the brownies at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze in an airtight container for up to 30 days. Thaw completely at room temperature before serving.
Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies are a luxurious treat that combines the best of chocolate and fruit flavors. Their fudgy texture and rich taste make them a favorite in my home, perfect for any occasion that calls for a special dessert.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use frozen cherries?
- Yes, you can use frozen cherries. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before using.
- → Can I substitute the cocoa powder?
- Yes, you can use regular cocoa powder, but Dutch process cocoa gives a richer flavor.
- → How should I store these brownies?
- Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week.
- → Can I add nuts to this recipe?
- Yes, you can add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
- → Can I use a different type of chocolate?
- Yes, you can use milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips based on your preference.