Chocolate Cherry Brownies

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

Highlighted under: Modern Kitchen

I absolutely love making these Chocolate Cherry Brownies for gatherings or just for a cozy night in. The combination of rich chocolate with the tartness of cherries creates a delightful contrast that keeps everyone coming back for seconds! Each bite bursts with flavor, and I often sneak a few extra cherries in for an indulgent touch. Plus, they're surprisingly easy to prepare, making them a go-to recipe whenever I crave something sweet yet satisfying.

Created by

Rhiannon Sutherland

Last updated on 2026-01-12T05:45:34.756Z

When I first combined chocolate and cherries in a brownie recipe, I was taken aback by how the flavors melded together so effortlessly. I think the secret lies in using fresh cherries; they infuse the brownies with moisture and a delightful tartness that cuts through the richness of the chocolate. It became a family favorite during the summer months when cherries are at their peak.

Another tip I've learned is to slightly underbake the brownies for an even fudgier texture. This method creates a perfect balance between the chewy and gooey aspects, which is exactly what I'm looking for in a brownie. Every time I serve these, the dessert plate is wiped clean in no time!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with tart cherries
Fudgy texture that melts in your mouth
Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion

      

Choosing the Right Cherries

When selecting cherries for your brownies, opt for fresh, firm, and bright red varieties for the best flavor. Sweet cherries add a gentle sweetness, while tart cherries offer a delightful zing that balances the richness of chocolate. If fresh cherries are unavailable, you can use frozen ones, but be sure to drain any excess moisture to prevent your brownies from becoming soggy.

Pitting cherries can be a time-consuming task, but it’s essential for the best texture. To make this easier, use a cherry pitter if you have one; it saves time and ensures all cherries are uniformly pitted, allowing for even distribution throughout the batter.

The Importance of Mixing Techniques

The method of combining your ingredients plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect brownie texture. Overmixing the batter after adding the flour can lead to a tough consistency, so stir gently until you see no more flour streaks. This technique helps preserve that fudgy texture you’re aiming for and results in a melty mouthfeel that enhances the overall experience.

When folding in the cherries and chocolate chips, take care to distribute them evenly without overworking the batter. This ensures that each brownie piece has a burst of cherry or a pocket of chocolate, elevating each bite.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Chocolate Cherry Brownies:

Ingredients

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

Make sure to measure out your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake your brownies:

Preheat the Oven

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

Melt the Butter

In a large saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.

Mix in Sugar and Eggs

Once melted, remove the pan from heat and stir in the sugar. Afterward, beat in the eggs one at a time until well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Add Chocolate Chips and Cherries

Fold in the chopped cherries and chocolate chips, ensuring even distribution.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan before cutting into squares. Enjoy!

For the best texture, allow the brownies to cool completely before serving.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor kick, try adding a pinch of cinnamon to the batter or drizzle melted chocolate on top before serving.

Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate Cherry Brownies pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The creamy textures contrast with the fudgy brownies, enhancing your dessert experience. For a more decadent presentation, consider drizzling some melted chocolate or a sprinkle of sea salt over the top before serving.

Slicing the brownies into bite-sized squares not only makes them easier to serve but also great for gatherings. Arrange them on a platter with some fresh cherries or a mint garnish for an appealing presentation that invites guests to indulge.

Storage Tips

To keep your brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them; they can last for about a week when properly sealed. Just remember that refrigeration can alter the texture slightly, making them less fudgy.

For long-term storage, freezing brownies is a fantastic option. Wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, allow them to thaw at room temperature or microwave them for a few seconds, keeping an eye on them to avoid overheating.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cherries for this recipe?

Yes, frozen cherries can be used, but make sure to thaw and drain them first to prevent excess moisture in the brownies.

→ How can I store leftover brownies?

Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I substitute the butter with oil?

Yes, you can substitute melted butter with vegetable oil, but this may slightly change the texture.

→ What can I do if my brownies are too dry?

If your brownies turn out dry, try reducing the baking time or adding a touch more butter next time for moisture.