Roasted Cherry Brownies Recipe

Introduction

There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a fudgy brownie that combines the rich, decadent flavor of chocolate with the bright, tart sweetness of roasted cherries. This Roasted Cherry Brownies recipe has quickly become a family favorite in my household. The first time I made it, the warm aroma of baking chocolate and cherries filled the kitchen, drawing everyone in. As soon as they were out of the oven, we couldn’t resist sampling them warm. The cherries provide a delightful burst of flavor that perfectly complements the rich chocolate. My family devoured the entire batch in one sitting, and now they frequently request these brownies for special occasions or simply as a sweet treat to enjoy together.

Ingredients

For the Cherries:

• 2 cups (276 g) sweet cherries, pitted and halved
• 2 teaspoons granulated sugar

For the Brownies:

• 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, at 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:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Spread the halved cherries on the lined baking sheet and sprinkle with granulated sugar.
3. Roast the cherries in the oven for 10 minutes. Set aside to cool while you prepare the brownie batter.

Prepare the Brownies:

1. Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×9-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.
2. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine ½ cup of the chocolate chips and the vegetable oil. Microwave in 15-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is melted. Set aside to cool slightly.
3. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat on high speed for 5-6 minutes, or until the mixture has lightened in color and doubled in size, scraping down the sides as needed.
4. Turn the mixer to low and slowly pour in the melted chocolate mixture, mixing until just combined.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and kosher salt.
6. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Fold in the remaining ¾ cup of chocolate chips and half of the roasted cherries.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.

Bake the Brownies:

1. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs but no wet batter.
2. Remove the brownies from the oven and top with the remaining roasted cherries.
3. Let the brownies cool slightly before cutting them into squares.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 16
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250
• Total Fat: 13g
• Saturated Fat: 3.5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 35mg
• Sodium: 30mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 32g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 20g
• Protein: 3g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes (plus cooling time)

How to Serve

• Warm: Serve warm for a gooey texture.
• With Ice Cream: Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
• With Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a lovely touch.
• Garnished: Sprinkle with powdered sugar or drizzle with chocolate sauce for added flair.

Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Cherries: Fresh sweet cherries will provide the best flavor. If out of season, frozen cherries can be used but may require adjustments in roasting time.
2. Check the Brownies: Every oven is different. Keep an eye on the brownies as they bake to avoid overcooking.
3. Let Cool: Allow the brownies to cool completely for cleaner cuts.
4. Experiment with Chocolate: Feel free to mix in different types of chocolate chips, like dark or milk chocolate, to vary the flavor.
5. Add Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can be added for an extra crunch.

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate Variants: Swap in dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
• Add Spices: A pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder can enhance the chocolate flavor.
• Different Fruits: Try raspberries or strawberries instead of cherries for a different fruity twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with Coffee: Enjoy these brownies with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack.
• Picnic Treat: Perfect for packing in lunchboxes or bringing to a picnic.
• Celebration Desserts: Great for birthdays, holidays, or any celebration.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
• Freezing: Freeze brownies in a single layer in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before enjoying.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen cherries?

• Yes, but thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture.

1. What can I substitute for vegetable oil?

• You can use melted coconut oil or unsalted butter as alternatives.

1. Are these brownies gluten-free?

• To make them gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.

1. Can I reduce the sugar?

• Yes, you can reduce the sugar, but it may affect the texture and sweetness.

1. How do I know when the brownies are done?

• They should have a set top and a toothpick should come out with moist crumbs.

1. What’s the best way to cut brownies?

• Use a sharp knife and clean it between cuts for neat squares.

1. Can I add more cherries?

• Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the amount of cherries to your liking.

1. What if I don’t have a stand mixer?

• A hand mixer or even a whisk can work, though it will require more effort.

1. Can I use regular cocoa powder?

• Yes, but Dutch-processed cocoa gives a deeper flavor and darker color.

1. How can I make these brownies more chocolatey?
   • Increase the amount of chocolate chips or add chocolate chunks for extra richness.

Conclusion

Roasted Cherry Brownies are a delightful dessert that beautifully marries the rich flavors of chocolate with the natural sweetness of cherries. This recipe is easy to follow and yields delicious results every time. Whether enjoyed warm from the oven or chilled later, these brownies are sure to impress. They make a perfect addition to any gathering or simply as a sweet indulgence at home. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and enjoy baking this delightful treat!

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