Chocolate Cherry Brownies

Name: Chocolate Cherry Brownies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon almond extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and chopped; 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

When I first combined chocolate and cherry in dessert form, I knew I had stumbled upon a match made in heaven. These Chocolate Cherry Brownies are the result of countless experiments in my kitchen, and I'm thrilled with how they turned out! The rich chocolate flavor perfectly complements the tartness of fresh cherries, creating a dessert that is both indulgent and refreshing. Each bite delivers a fudgy texture and a burst of fruity sweetness that will leave you craving more. Trust me, these brownies are worth every minute spent preparing them!

Created by

Veronica Miles

Last updated on 2026-01-13T05:49:18.771Z

During my baking adventures, I decided to pair chocolate with cherries to see what would happen. The result? Pure bliss! The deep, rich flavor from the chocolate is amplified by the sweet and slightly tart notes of the cherries. After several tries, I found that mixing the cherries into the batter just before pouring it into the pan gives an amazing distribution of flavor and texture throughout the brownies.

I also discovered that adding a bit of almond extract enhances the overall flavor without overpowering the chocolate and cherry combination. This little addition makes a big difference. I've served these brownies at multiple gatherings, and they disappear faster than you can say 'chocolate cherry'!

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        Decadent chocolate richness enhanced by juicy cherries
Fudgy texture that satisfies any chocolate craving
Easy to make and perfect for sharing with friends

      

Perfecting Your Brownie Batter

When making the brownie batter, careful attention to the mixing process is crucial. Overmixing can lead to dense and overly chewy brownies. Once you add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mix just until everything is combined. The batter should have a smooth consistency, but don't worry if a few lumps remain; they will bake out. A gentle folding method is recommended for incorporating the cherries and chocolate chips as this maintains the batter's lightness.

The quality of the chocolate used in these brownies significantly impacts the overall flavor profile. Opt for high-quality semi-sweet chocolate chips as they melt beautifully and enhance the deep chocolate taste. If you'd like to explore flavors, try using dark chocolate chips or even a mix of chocolate types. Adjusting the chocolate type can uniquely alter your brownie experience, so feel free to experiment!

Substitutions and Dietary Swaps

For those looking to alter the recipe to meet dietary restrictions, there are several viable substitutions. If you're preparing these brownies for a gluten-free audience, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend. Be aware that some blends require additional moisture, so you might need to adjust the butter or other liquids slightly to maintain the brownie’s fudgy texture.

If you're short on fresh cherries, consider using frozen ones instead; just be sure to thaw and drain them to prevent excess moisture in the batter. Alternatively, dried cherries can also be used to impart a delightful chewiness and flavor burst, though the texture will vary slightly from their fresh counterparts.

Ingredients

For the Brownies

1 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon almond extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and chopped
1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

Preheat the oven

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

Combine wet ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts.

Mix dry ingredients

In another bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.

Fold in cherries and chocolate chips

Gently fold in the chopped cherries and semi-sweet chocolate chips into the brownie batter.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. 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 for at least 15 minutes before cutting into squares. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor kick, try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking. It elevates the sweetness and complements the chocolate beautifully.

Storage Tips

To keep your Chocolate Cherry Brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. If you want them to last longer, they can be refrigerated for a week. This can enhance their fudginess, as refrigeration tends to concentrate flavors. To enjoy them warm after chilling, simply microwave individual squares for about 10-15 seconds.

For longer-term storage, consider freezing them. Slice the brownies into squares and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. Freeze for up to three months. When you're ready to indulge, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or leave them at room temperature for a few hours.

Serving Suggestions

These brownies are incredibly versatile in terms of serving. For a decadent touch, serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of chocolate sauce. The contrast of the brownie’s richness and the coldness of the ice cream creates an indulgent experience that’s hard to resist.

If you’re looking for a more sophisticated twist, plate your brownies with a sprinkle of sea salt and a dollop of whipped cream. The hint of salt elevates the chocolate flavor while providing a delightful texture contrast. Adding a sprig of mint can give your dessert a refreshing look and taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?

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

→ How should I store leftover brownies?

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

→ Can I substitute the granulated sugar with a sugar alternative?

Yes, you can use sugar alternatives, but make sure to check the conversion rates as they may vary.

→ What can I serve with these brownies?

These brownies pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream!