Chocolate Cherry Brownies

Name: Chocolate Cherry Brownies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter; 2 cups sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved; 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Sweet Craft

I can’t resist a good brownie, especially when it involves chocolate and cherries! When I first combined these two ingredients, I discovered a heavenly pairing that elevates the classic brownie experience. The rich chocolate flavor infuses beautifully with the tartness of cherries, creating a decadent treat that I enjoy making for both myself and for special occasions. It's perfect for chocolate lovers and those looking to impress guests with a unique dessert that’s sure to delight.

Created by

Daphne Collins

Last updated on 2026-01-13T05:52:20.349Z

I remember the first time I baked these Chocolate Cherry Brownies; the aroma wafting through my kitchen was simply exquisite. Watching the chocolate melt and blend with the cherries made me realize how these two flavors truly complement each other. I used fresh cherries for a burst of juiciness that contrasts beautifully with the fudgy texture of the brownies.

One of the secrets I discovered is to fold in the cherries gently, ensuring they don’t break apart too much. This way, you get a lovely pop of fruitiness in every bite, adding a delightful surprise. Trust me, these homemade brownies are always a crowd-pleaser!

        Why You Will Love These Brownies
        Decadent chocolate richness complemented by sweet-tart cherries
Fudgy texture that stays moist and chewy
Easy to make and perfect for any occasion

      

The Importance of Fresh Cherries

Using fresh cherries in this brownie recipe elevates both flavor and texture. Their vibrant tartness contrasts beautifully with the rich chocolate, creating a perfect balance. When selecting cherries, look for ones that are firm and glossy, as this indicates freshness. The pitting process can be a bit tedious, but it's worth it for the burst of flavor they'll provide. If fresh cherries are out of season, you can swap them for frozen cherries, but be sure to thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture in the batter.

As the brownies bake, the cherries will soften and release their juices, adding richness to each bite. This can also affect the overall texture; the brownies will become fudgier around the areas with cherries. If you want to avoid too much moisture, consider dusting the cherries with a bit of flour before folding them into the batter. This can help absorb some of the liquid they release, ensuring your brownies maintain their ideal fudgy texture.

Mastering the Brownie Texture

Achieving that perfect fudgy texture is all about the mixing and baking process. When combining your wet and dry ingredients, mix just until they are combined. Over-mixing can lead to denser brownies that are cake-like instead of fudgy. A few streaks of flour are okay; they will disappear as the brownies bake. Also, using high-quality cocoa powder will deepen the chocolate flavor, so opt for a brand that you enjoy eating on its own.

Baking time is crucial. Start checking your brownies a few minutes before the 30-minute mark. Insert a toothpick; it should come out with a few moist crumbs for that ideal brownie texture. If it comes out clean, they may be overbaked. Remember that the brownies will continue to cook slightly as they cool, so it's better to err on the side of slightly underbaked for that gooey center.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create the perfect brownies:

For the Brownies

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

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let's start baking!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delightful baking experience:

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.

Melt Butter and Sugar

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the sugar until well combined.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Remove the pan from heat and let it cool slightly before adding the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet mixture until just combined.

Add Cherries and Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the halved cherries and chocolate chips, being careful not to break the cherries.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before cutting into squares.

Your delicious Chocolate Cherry Brownies are now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, serve these brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side or drizzle with melted chocolate.

Storing and Freezing Brownies

These chocolate cherry brownies store beautifully, making them great for meal prep. Once completely cooled, I like to cut them into squares and place them in an airtight container. They can stay fresh at room temperature for up to four days, or you can place them in the refrigerator for a longer shelf life. Just ensure there’s parchment between layers to prevent sticking.

If you want to enjoy these brownies later, consider freezing them. Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They'll be good for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature for a couple of hours. For a warm treat, microwave individual squares for about 10-15 seconds.

Serving Suggestions

For a delicious serving option, try pairing these brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creaminess contrasts perfectly with the rich chocolate and tart cherries. A drizzle of warm chocolate sauce or cherry compote on top can take the presentation to the next level and enhance the flavors beautifully. You could also dust them lightly with powdered sugar for a touch of elegance.

If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding a dollop of whipped cream infused with vanilla or almond extract on top of each brownie. This light, fluffy addition will provide a lovely balance to the dense brownie and enhance the cherry aspect. Serve these at gatherings or special occasions, and you'll certainly impress your guests!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen cherries. Just make sure to thaw them and drain any excess moisture before adding them to the batter.

→ How should I store the brownies?

Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or refrigerate for a week.

→ Can I add nuts to the brownie mix?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans make a great addition to this recipe.

→ What type of chocolate should I use?

I recommend using high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder for depth of flavor and semi-sweet chocolate chips for sweetness.