Chocolate Cherry Brownies

Name: Chocolate Cherry Brownies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 brownies
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved

Highlighted under: Oven Planning

I absolutely love baking these Chocolate Cherry Brownies when I'm feeling the need for a delicious pick-me-up. The rich chocolate flavor complements the tangy cherries perfectly, creating a dessert that sings with both depth and brightness. With just a handful of simple ingredients, these brownies come together quickly, making them an excellent choice for any occasion or a cozy night in. Whether you're entertaining guests or craving a sweet treat, these brownies will surely delight and satisfy!

Created by

Violet Kingsley

Last updated on 2026-01-12T07:17:34.783Z

When I first stumbled upon the combination of chocolate and cherries, I was intrigued. I decided to experiment by incorporating cherries into my classic brownie recipe, and the results were outstanding. The sweetness of the chocolate brought out the tartness of the cherries, creating a delightful balance that I couldn't resist. Each bite is a perfect harmony of flavors!

One of my favorite tips is to use fresh cherries when they are in season, as they add an incredible burst of flavor. Additionally, letting the brownies cool for a bit before cutting into them allows the texture to set beautifully. Trust me, these brownies are worth waiting for!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Decadent chocolate paired with tart cherries for a delightful flavor combination
Rich, fudgy texture that stays moist and tender
Perfect for serving at gatherings or satisfying a sweet craving

      

The Magic of Chocolate and Cherry

The combination of chocolate and cherries isn’t just a random choice; it’s a classic culinary pairing that highlights the best in both ingredients. The deep, rich flavor of cocoa meets the bright acidity of fresh cherries, creating a symphony of taste in each bite. The tartness of the cherries not only cuts through the sweetness but also enhances the chocolate’s richness, making this brownie a favorite for those who enjoy complex flavors.

Using fresh cherries in this recipe elevates the brownies significantly. When baked, they release their juices, which not only infuses the brownie with a fruity flavor but keeps the texture incredibly moist. If fresh cherries are out of season, you can substitute with frozen ones; just ensure they are pitted and gently thawed to prevent excess moisture from altering the batter.

Perfecting the Brownie Texture

For the ideal brownie texture, it’s essential to avoid overmixing the batter after adding the dry ingredients. Mix just until the flour disappears to maintain a fudgy texture. Overmixing can lead to a cakey brownie, which is not the desired outcome for this recipe. A few lumps are perfectly fine; they will smooth out during baking, resulting in a luscious, tender brownie that’s rich in chocolate flavor.

Keep an eye on the baking time. Brownies should be removed from the oven when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached, rather than clean. This ensures they remain rich and gooey, while still being fully set. Remember, they’ll continue to firm up slightly as they cool, so aim for the toothpick test as your guide.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start for an easy baking experience:

Brownie Ingredients

1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved

Make sure to have all ingredients at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your brownies:

Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8x8 inch baking pan.

Melt the Butter

In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Remove from heat and stir in sugar, eggs, and vanilla.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together cocoa, flour, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture.

Fold in Cherries

Gently fold in the halved cherries until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Bake

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan before cutting them into squares and serving.

Enjoy the brownies warm or at room temperature!

Pro Tips

For a more intense chocolate flavor, consider adding chocolate chips to the batter.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Chocolate Cherry Brownies can be kept at room temperature in an airtight container for up to three days. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider refrigerating them where they can last about a week. For an even longer store, you can freeze the brownies. After cooling completely, wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag or airtight container. They can be frozen for up to three months; just thaw them at room temperature or warm them up gently in the microwave before serving.

If you plan to make them ahead for an occasion, you can prep your brownie batter the night before. Just store it in the refrigerator and then bake it fresh the next day for the best texture. This also allows the flavors of the cherries and chocolate to meld together beautifully overnight.

Serving Suggestions

Serving these brownies warm is a surefire way to enhance their flavor and texture. I recommend dusting them with a bit of powdered sugar for a touch of elegance, or serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, which pairs beautifully with the rich chocolate and tart cherry flavors. Drizzling a bit of chocolate or cherry sauce on top can also make for an eye-catching presentation.

For an extra special occasion, consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the brownies immediately after they come out of the oven. This small addition elevates the dessert, bringing out the sweetness and balancing the flavors beautifully. Trust me, the salt will enhance every gooey bite!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cherries instead?

Yes, frozen cherries can be used, but be sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before adding them to the batter.

→ How do I store leftover brownies?

Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.

→ What can I pair with these brownies?

These brownies pair wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgent dessert.