Name: Roasted Cherry Brownies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 2 cups sweet cherries (pitted, halved); 2 teaspoons granulated sugar; 1 ¼ cups semisweet chocolate chips (divided); ¾ cup vegetable oil; 1 cup granulated sugar; ⅔ cup light brown sugar (packed); 3 large eggs (room temperature); 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup Dutch-processed cocoa powder; ½ teaspoon kosher salt

Introduction to Roasted Cherry Brownies

If you're on the hunt for a dessert that's not just delicious but also a conversation starter, look no further than roasted cherry brownies. This delightful treat combines rich, fudgy brownie goodness with the sweet-tart explosion of roasted cherries, creating a treat that feels both indulgent and surprisingly sophisticated.

Why Roasted Cherries Make Brownies Irresistible

Roasting cherries transforms them in such an exciting way. The heat brings out their natural sweetness while softening their texture, giving them a warm, juicy bite. As they caramelize, the cherries release a complex flavor that pairs perfectly with the deep cocoa notes of the brownies. Plus, there's something magical about that contrast between rich chocolate and a burst of roasted fruit.

Think about your favorite dessert—doesn’t it always have a unique twist that makes it memorable? Roasted cherries do just that! They're not merely an addition; they redefine what a brownie can be. Imagine biting into a warm brownie and encountering a sweet cherry surprise; it’s an experience sure to delight your palate.

Ready to impress your friends and family with a new baking masterpiece? Let’s dive into the recipe for these roasted cherry brownies that promise to elevate your dessert game.

Ingredients for Roasted Cherry Brownies

When you're ready to whip up a batch of roasted cherry brownies, the first step is gathering your ingredients. These delightful treats are not just your average brownies; the addition of roasted cherries elevates them to a whole new level of deliciousness. Here’s everything you need:

Cherries

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

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

These ingredients come together to create a rich, decadent brownie that balances perfectly with the tartness of the roasted cherries. Make sure to have everything prepped before you start; it makes the baking process much smoother. Happy baking!

Preparing Roasted Cherry Brownies

Roasted cherry brownies are the perfect blend of rich chocolate and succulent fruit, creating a dessert that’s sure to impress anyone. Let’s dive into how to prepare these delicious treats step by step!

Roast the Cherries

To kickstart your adventure with these roasted cherry brownies, we’ll first need to roast the cherries. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup. Spread 2 cups of halved cherries evenly on the parchment and sprinkle with 2 teaspoons of granulated sugar. This little bit of sugar will help enhance their sweetness and create a lovely syrup when they roast. Bake for about 10 minutes, or until the cherries are tender and the juices begin to bubble. Set these beauties aside while you prepare the brownie batter.

Melt the Chocolate and Oils

Now let’s bring some rich flavor into the mix! In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine ½ cup of semisweet chocolate chips with ¾ cup of vegetable oil. Microwave the mixture in 15-second increments, stirring in between until it is smoothly melted. This method prevents burning the chocolate and allows for a silky texture, perfect for brownies.

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In this step, we will create a creamy, dreamy base for our roasted cherry brownies. Using a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, add 1 cup of granulated sugar, ⅔ cup of packed light brown sugar, 3 large room-temperature eggs, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Beat everything on high speed for about 5-6 minutes until the mixture lightens in color and doubles in size. Trust me; this makes for a fluffier brownie!

Combine Dry Ingredients

While that’s mixing, grab a small bowl and whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of Dutch-processed cocoa powder, and ½ teaspoon of kosher salt. Mixing your dry ingredients separately allows for even distribution, ensuring every bite of the roasted cherry brownies is deliciously consistent.

Fold in the Chocolate Chips and Cherries

Gently pour your melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture, stirring until just combined. Then, add in the flour mixture, folding it into the wet ingredients carefully to avoid over-mixing. Finally, gently fold in the remaining ¾ cup of chocolate chips and half of those roasted cherries we set aside earlier. You'll want to savor the beautiful colors and textures coming together!

Bake the Brownies

Pour your luscious brownie batter into a well-greased 9x9-inch baking dish. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs, but no wet batter. For an extra touch, sprinkle the remaining roasted cherries on top as soon as they come out of the oven. Allow the brownies to cool slightly before cutting into them, and enjoy the heavenly blend of chocolate and roasted cherries!

Feel free to share your experiences with this recipe or make it your own by experimenting with different nuts or adding a dash of espresso powder for an extra kick. Happy baking!

Variations on Roasted Cherry Brownies

Add nuts for crunch

If you’re looking to elevate your roasted cherry brownies, consider adding nuts for an extra crunch! Nuts like walnuts or pecans not only add texture but also enhance the flavor profile of the brownies. A handful of chopped nuts mixed into the batter gives a pleasing contrast to the chewy cherries. Toasting the nuts beforehand can intensify their flavor, creating a delightful surprise in every bite!

Try different types of cherries

While sweet cherries are the star of this recipe, don't hesitate to experiment with other varieties. Tart cherries can amplify the sweetness of the brownies, providing a lovely balance. Mix and match or use seasonal favorites like Bing or Rainier cherries. What's your favorite? Seasonal cherry varieties can often be found at local farmers' markets, making them a fantastic option to showcase local produce!

Baking Notes for Roasted Cherry Brownies

Importance of Room-Temperature Ingredients

Using room-temperature eggs in your roasted cherry brownies is essential. This helps achieve a better emulsion when mixing with other ingredients, resulting in a fudgier texture. When everything blends together smoothly, your brownies will have that perfect, moist crumb.

Checking for Doneness

To ensure your brownies are baked to perfection, insert a toothpick into the center. You want it to come out with a few moist crumbs, but not wet batter. Overbaking can lead to a dry treat, so keep an eye on them as they approach the 30-minute mark. Remember, brownies continue to set a bit as they cool, giving you that wonderfully gooey finish we all love.

For more tips on brownie baking, you might find this baking resource helpful!

Serving suggestions for Roasted Cherry Brownies

Pair with ice cream
Imagine biting into a warm, fudgy roasted cherry brownie and then taking a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. The combination is a match made in dessert heaven! The rich chocolatey flavor of the brownie pairs beautifully with the cold, sweet ice cream. For an extra kick, try drizzling some chocolate syrup or a sprinkle of sea salt on top to elevate those flavors. This dessert is sure to impress any guests you may have, or simply treat yourself after a long day.

Serve with a fruit sauce
Another delightful option is to serve your roasted cherry brownies with a homemade fruit sauce. A simple cherry or berry sauce, made by pureeing your favorite fruits and simmering them down, can add a tart and refreshing balance to the rich brownie. To craft this sauce, consider using seasonal fruits like raspberries or strawberries for an added vibrancy. This combination not only looks stunning but also enhances the overall flavor profile, making every bite memorable!

Tips for Making Perfect Roasted Cherry Brownies

Making roasted cherry brownies is a delightful experience, and a few simple tips can take your dessert from good to spectacular!

Choose Sweet Cherries: Select ripe, sweet cherries for natural sweetness and a juicy texture. Their vibrant flavor enhances the brownies beautifully.
Roast Wisely: Don’t rush the roasting! Baking cherries at 400°F for 10 minutes caramelizes their sugars, intensifying their flavor. Make sure to space them out on the baking sheet for even roasting.
Mixing Technique: When combining wet and dry ingredients, do so gently to avoid overmixing, which can lead to dense brownies.
Test for Doneness: Remember, the toothpick should come out with a few crumbs—not wet batter. This ensures fudgy brownies that melt in your mouth.

For a deeper dive into brownie variations, check out sources like The Kitchn for innovative ideas. Happy baking!

Time Breakdown for Roasted Cherry Brownies

Preparation Time
Get ready for a delicious adventure! It takes about 15 minutes to prepare the roasted cherry brownies, including pitting and halving the cherries, as well as mixing the brownie batter.

Baking Time
Once you've prepped everything, the brownies will spend 30-35 minutes in the oven, transforming into rich chocolatey goodness while the aroma fills your kitchen.

Total Time
In just 45-50 minutes, you can have a batch of roasted cherry brownies ready to enjoy! This includes prep and baking time, making it an ideal dessert for both weeknights and special gatherings.

If you’re looking for tips on how to choose the best cherries, check out this guide. Don’t forget, fresh ingredients make all the difference in your baking!

Now, who’s excited to dig into these decadent delights?

Nutritional Facts for Roasted Cherry Brownies

Calories

Indulging in roasted cherry brownies is a delightful treat, especially when you know you're enjoying approximately 285 calories per serving. This makes them a satisfying option for a sweet craving without derailing your dietary goals.

Sugar Content

These decadent brownies contain about 22 grams of sugar in each serving. While the natural sweetness of the cherries contributes to this total, be mindful if you're keeping track of your sugar intake. Consider pairing them with a cup of black coffee or herbal tea for a balanced dessert experience!

For more insights on understanding sugar content in desserts, check out the American Heart Association's guide.

FAQs about Roasted Cherry Brownies

Can I use frozen cherries?

Absolutely! You can use frozen cherries in your roasted cherry brownies. Simply thaw them before using and pat them dry to remove excess moisture. This will help maintain the texture of your brownies and keep them from becoming too soggy.

How do I store leftover brownies?

To keep your delicious roasted cherry brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider refrigerating them, and they will last up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months—just be sure to wrap them individually to maintain quality!

What can I add to enrich the flavor?

If you’re looking to elevate your roasted cherry brownies, try adding a splash of espresso or a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a wonderful flavor contrast. Chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, can also add an satisfying crunch. For a twist, consider incorporating cocoa nibs or a hint of almond extract. Customize it to suit your taste!

Conclusion on Roasted Cherry Brownies

In conclusion, roasted cherry brownies offer a delightful fusion of rich chocolate and sweet, caramelized cherries. Their moist, fudgy texture combined with the tangy burst of roasted fruit creates an unforgettable dessert experience. Share them with friends or enjoy them solo—these brownies are perfect for any occasion! For more delicious dessert ideas, check out our favorite chocolate cake or personalized cupcake recipes.