Chocolate Cherry Brownies

Name: Chocolate Cherry Brownies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, melted; 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour; 1 cup (90g) unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved

Highlighted under: Soft Planning

I absolutely love the combination of rich chocolate and tart cherries in a dessert. These Chocolate Cherry Brownies are a perfect way to enjoy that delicious pairing. The moist, fudgy texture combined with bursts of cherry flavor creates a delightful experience with every bite. Baking these brownies is not only easy but also incredibly satisfying, making it an ideal treat for sharing with friends or indulging on a cozy night in. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your dessert rotation.

Created by

Zara Ellington

Last updated on 2026-01-12T04:45:34.981Z

During one delightful afternoon, I decided to experiment with a classic brownie recipe by adding fresh cherries. The result was nothing short of magical! The balance of sweet chocolate and tart cherry turned out to be an unforgettable combination that delighted my taste buds. I learned that using ripe cherries brings out their juiciness and enhanced the brownie’s fudgy texture.

What makes this recipe truly special is the technique of folding in the cherry pieces just before baking. This ensures that every bite offers a harmonious blend of flavors. Plus, it adds a pop of color that makes these brownies visually stunning. You’ll want to show them off at your next gathering!

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        Decadent chocolate flavor paired with fresh cherries
Fudgy texture that satisfies every chocolate craving
Perfect for potlucks and celebrations

      

Perfecting Your Brownies

To achieve the perfect fudgy texture in your Chocolate Cherry Brownies, be cautious not to over-mix the batter after adding the dry ingredients. Aim for just combined—this will prevent the brownies from becoming cake-like. You want to see a few flour streaks as you incorporate the cocoa and flour, which will yield that dense and moist quality that brownies are known for.

The choice of cocoa powder also influences the final flavor. Dark cocoa powder can enhance the richness of the chocolate flavor, making it even more decadent. Remember, it’s crucial to choose a high-quality cocoa powder because its taste will directly impact the overall depth of your brownies.

Cherry Insights

When selecting cherries for this recipe, fresh is best—a mix of sweet and tart varieties can elevate the flavor profile even further. If fresh cherries are out of season, frozen cherries can be used; simply thaw and drain excess liquid before adding to the batter to avoid a watered-down outcome. Always remember to pit the cherries thoroughly, as stray pits can ruin the experience of enjoying your brownies.

If you're looking to take the flavor a step further, consider adding a splash of almond extract along with the vanilla. It complements the cherry flavor wonderfully and brings a lovely aromatic note that can make your brownies truly stand out. Just a hint will do—it’s easy to overpower the delicate cherry flavor.

Ingredients

For the Brownies

1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, melted
2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
1 cup (90g) unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved

Make sure to use ripe cherries for the best flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Baking Pan

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

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the melted butter and sugar. Stir in the eggs and vanilla extract until smooth.

Combine the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.

Add Cherries

Gently fold in the halved cherries, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Bake the Brownies

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

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

For an extra special touch, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Pro Tips

For a deeper chocolate flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of espresso powder to the batter.

Storing and Serving

These brownies can be stored in an airtight container for up to one week at room temperature. For longer storage, you can freeze them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or pop them in a microwave for a few seconds to bring back that fresh-out-of-the-oven warmth.

For an elegant touch when serving, dust the top of your brownies with powdered sugar before cutting them into squares. Pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the rich chocolate and tart cherries, turning an ordinary dessert into an indulgent treat.

Scaling and Variations

If you want to make a larger batch for gatherings, you can easily double this recipe and bake it in a larger baking pan, ideally a 12x18 inch half-sheet pan. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly; it may require an extra 5 to 10 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center—aim for a few moist crumbs clinging to it rather than a clean pick.

For a fun twist, you can incorporate different mix-ins along with or in place of the cherries. Chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, add crunch and complement the soft brownies nicely. Alternatively, try swirling in a tablespoon or two of cherry preserves before baking to enhance the cherry flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen cherries. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the mix.

→ How do I store leftover brownies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I substitute the butter with oil?

Yes, you can use vegetable oil as a substitute. Use the same amount as the butter.

→ What if I don't have cocoa powder?

If you don't have cocoa powder, you can replace it with an equal amount of melted chocolate.