Chocolate Cherry Brownies

Name: Chocolate Cherry Brownies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 cup sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and chopped; 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love baking, and when I tried my hand at these Chocolate Cherry Brownies, I knew I had created something special. The combination of rich chocolate and tart cherries not only satisfies my sweet tooth but also gives a delightful twist to traditional brownies. The juicy cherries add a burst of flavor that keeps me coming back for more. With just a handful of ingredients, these brownies are simple to whip up and will impress anyone who tries them. Let me walk you through this delightful recipe!

Created by

Lillian Hayes

Last updated on 2026-01-13T04:31:15.216Z

When I first combined chocolate and cherries in a brownie, I was amazed at how well the flavors complemented each other. The sweet richness of chocolate partners perfectly with the tartness of the cherries, making each bite an experience. During my testing, I learned to balance the sugar levels to allow the cherry flavor to shine without overpowering the chocolate, and that made all the difference.

One detail I can’t stress enough is the importance of using fresh cherries. They add a juicy freshness that frozen ones simply can't match. Plus, don't be afraid to sprinkle some extra chopped cherries on top before baking for an even more delightful finish!

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        Decadent chocolate flavor enhanced by tart cherries
Perfectly chewy and fudgy texture
Ready in under an hour for a quick dessert fix

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in these Chocolate Cherry Brownies plays a crucial role in achieving the desired flavor and texture. The unsweetened cocoa powder provides a deep chocolate flavor, while the combination of granulated and brown sugar ensures a balanced sweetness. Brown sugar adds moisture and a slight caramel note, making the brownies fudgy rather than cake-like. Using fresh cherries not only adds a burst of tartness but also contributes moisture, which is essential for maintaining the brownies' chewy consistency.

In this recipe, the eggs act as a binding agent, contributing to the structure and richness of the brownies. Make sure to beat them until fully incorporated for a smooth batter. If you're looking for a healthier alternative, you can substitute the same volume of unsweetened applesauce for the eggs, but be aware that this may alter the texture slightly, making them a bit less fudgy. Also, semi-sweet chocolate chips add both texture and additional chocolate flavor, so don’t skip them!

Baking Tips for Perfect Brownies

Baking the brownies at the right temperature is key. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even cooking. If your oven runs hot, consider lowering the temperature slightly to prevent overbaking. Keep an eye on them during the final minutes of baking; they are done when the edges pull away slightly from the pan and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. This indicates that you’ve achieved that perfect fudgy texture without overbaking.

Allowing the brownies to cool in the pan helps set their structure, making them easier to cut. For cleaner cuts, try chilling the brownies in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before slicing. Additionally, using a plastic knife can help you achieve neat edges. If you love a richer flavor, I recommend adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top right before baking; it enhances the chocolate flavor beautifully!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before diving into the baking process:

Ingredients

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

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to achieve the perfect brownies:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9-inch baking pan.

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, sift together the cocoa powder, flour, and salt.

Incorporate Both Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Add Cherries and Chocolate Chips

Fold in the chopped cherries and chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Serve

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

Let the brownies cool completely for the best texture.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider drizzling melted chocolate over the top before serving or adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

While cherries are a star ingredient in these brownies, feel free to experiment with other fruits. Raspberries or blueberries also pair beautifully with chocolate and can be used in place of cherries for a delightful twist. You might also add chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to introduce a crunchy texture. Just make sure to adjust the amount slightly if your fruit or nuts contain moisture that could affect the batter consistency.

These brownies are delicious on their own, but serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream elevates them to a whole new level. Drizzle some chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top for added decadence. If you're serving at a gathering, cut them into smaller squares for bite-sized treats that are easy for guests to enjoy!

Storage and Freezing

To keep your Chocolate Cherry Brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can freeze them for longer storage. Cut the cooled brownies into squares and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can maintain their deliciousness for up to three months in the freezer.

When you're ready to enjoy the frozen brownies, simply remove them from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about an hour. If you prefer them warm, you can pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This helps regain that nice fudgy texture and enhances the chocolate flavor!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the cherries with another fruit?

Yes, you can use raspberries or blueberries for a different flavor profile.

→ How should I store these brownies?

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

→ Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate?

Absolutely! Dark chocolate will add an even richer flavor to the brownies.

→ Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.