Name: Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Cherries, cut in half, washed, pitted; Sprinkle Sugar; 1 1/3 cups White granulated sugar; 2 Large Eggs; 1 Large Egg yolk; 5 TBSP Unsalted butter, melted; 1/3 cup Oil, canola or vegetable; 1 tsp Pure vanilla extract; 3/4 cup All-purpose flour; 3/4 cup Dutch process cocoa powder; 1 TBSP Cornstarch; 1 tsp Salt; 1 cup Semi-sweet chocolate chips

Introduction to Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

If you're ready to elevate your dessert game, look no further than roasted chocolate cherry brownies. These delectable treats introduce a wonderful twist to the classic brownie by incorporating roasted cherries, enhancing both flavor and texture. Roasting the cherries intensifies their sweetness and adds a delightful caramelized note that beautifully complements the rich chocolate.

So, why are roasted cherry brownies a game-changer for homemade desserts? First, the combination of fudgy chocolate and the juicy burst of cherries creates a sensory experience that is simply irresistible. Each bite offers a balance of chocolatey decadence and fruity brightness, transforming a standard brownie into a showstopper.

Additionally, making these treats at home allows you to control the ingredients and indulge guilt-free, knowing exactly what's going into your dessert. The roasting process is not only easy but also adds depth to the flavors, making your brownies stand out at any gathering or as a lovely treat for yourself.

Curious to see how these might become your new favorite dessert? Let's dive right into the recipe and experience these roasted chocolate cherry brownies that will surely impress your friends and family alike!

Ingredients for Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

When it comes to creating delicious roasted chocolate cherry brownies, the right balance of ingredients is essential. Here's what you'll need to bring this mouthwatering dessert to life:

Cherries: 2 cups of fresh cherries, cut in half, washed, and pitted. Not only do they add an incredible flavor, but roasting them enhances their sweetness!
Sugar: You’ll need a sprinkle of sugar for the cherries plus 1 ⅓ cups of white granulated sugar for the brownie batter. Sweet, but not too sweet.
Eggs: 2 large eggs plus an additional egg yolk will give your brownies that rich, fudgy texture everyone loves.
Butter and Oil: 5 tablespoons of unsalted butter (melted) combined with ⅓ cup of canola or vegetable oil work together for moisture.
Vanilla and Cocoa: 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract adds warmth, while ¾ cup of Dutch process cocoa powder is key for that deep chocolate flavor.
Flour and Salt: ¾ cup of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt balance the sweetness.
Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon will help create a tender crumb.
Chocolate Chips: Finally, 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips for those melty bites of joy.

Gather these ingredients, and you'll be on your way to whipping up an irresistible pan of roasted chocolate cherry brownies. For more information on baking essentials, check out this guide on baking ingredients from a trusted baking resource.

Step-by-step Preparation for Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

Prepping the cherry goodness

To kickstart your journey to delicious roasted chocolate cherry brownies, the first step is all about the cherries. Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes the cleanup a breeze and ensures a perfect roast. Take 2 cups of luscious cherries, wash them well, cut them in half, and pit them if you haven't already. Spread these cherry halves onto the prepared parchment, evenly distributing them to ensure optimal roasting. A light sprinkle of sugar over the cherries will help caramelize their natural sweetness during roasting. Bake them for just 10 minutes — keep an eye on them to achieve that delightful roasted aroma. Once they're slightly cooled, you'll be ready to transform your brownies!

Preparing the brownie batter

Next, it’s time to establish the base of your brownie batter. Lower the oven to 325°F and arrange your baking pan. Use an 8x8 inch pan, spray it lightly with non-stick baking spray, then line the bottom and two sides with parchment paper for easy removal later on. Now, in a mixing bowl, sift together ¾ cup of all-purpose flour, ¾ cup of Dutch process cocoa powder, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, and 1 teaspoon of salt. This step ensures a smooth texture in your brownies and prevents any lumps.

Mixing in the delightful ingredients

Using a mixer with a whisk attachment, you’ll want to beat together 1 ⅓ cups of white granulated sugar, 2 large eggs, and 1 egg yolk on high for a solid 5 minutes until it’s light and fluffy. While that’s mixing away, melt 5 tablespoons of unsalted butter and allow it to cool slightly before adding it along with ⅓ cup of oil and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Mix everything on low speed, then gently fold in the dry ingredients using a rubber spatula. This gentle folding is crucial; we want to maintain all that lovely air you whipped into the mixture earlier.

Baking the brownies to fudgy perfection

Now, comes the moment of truth: baking these delightful brownies! Carefully add half of the roasted cherries and 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips to your batter, folding until just combined. Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake in your preheated oven for about 40-50 minutes. Keep a close watch; the edges should be set while the center remains slightly underdone for that gooey texture we all crave.

Adding the finishing touches with cherries

Once baked, allow the brownies to cool in the pan completely before removing them. For the grand finale, top your fudgy masterpiece with the remaining roasted cherries. You might even consider additional chocolate chips for that extra flair. If you’re feeling up for it, chill them in the freezer for 15 minutes before cutting into squares. This will make slicing a breeze! Enjoy your roasted chocolate cherry brownies with friends, or keep them all to yourself — we won’t judge!

By following these carefully curated steps, you’ll not only impress yourself but also everyone lucky enough to share in your culinary adventure!

Creative Variations on Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

Vegan Roasted Cherry Brownies

Craving a plant-based twist? Swap the eggs in your roasted chocolate cherry brownies with flaxseed meal—mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water, allowing it to sit for a few minutes until gelatinous. Replace the butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative, and use dairy-free chocolate chips for that rich flavor you love!

Gluten-Free Roasted Cherry Brownies

If gluten-free living is your jam, don’t worry! Just substitute the all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free flour blend. This allows you to enjoy decadent roasted chocolate cherry brownies without compromising on taste or texture. You’ll still get those fudgy brownies balanced with roasted cherries, making each bite a delightful indulgence!

For more gluten-free baking tips, check out resources like King Arthur Baking or Serious Eats.

Helpful Cooking Tips for Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

When creating your roasted chocolate cherry brownies, keep these simple tips in mind to enhance your baking experience:

Choose Fresh Cherries: The quality of cherry makes a significant difference. Opt for ripe, firm cherries for the best flavor. Check out the Cherry Marketing Institute for more on selecting cherries.
Don’t Overmix the Batter: When combining dry and wet ingredients, be gentle. Overmixing can lead to denser brownies—a key factor in achieving that fudgy texture we all love.
Test for Doneness: Brownies should be slightly underbaked in the middle; they continue to cook as they cool. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs.

Follow these tips, and your roasted chocolate cherry brownies will be a hit every time!

Serving Suggestions for Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

When it comes to roasted chocolate cherry brownies, the serving possibilities are as exciting as the flavors themselves. Here are a few delightful suggestions:

A Dusting of Powdered Sugar: For a simple touch, sprinkle some powdered sugar on top just before serving. This adds a beautiful finish and a hint of sweetness.
Ice Cream Pairing: Serve your brownies warm alongside a scoop of vanilla or cherry ice cream. The melty goodness complements the fudgy texture perfectly.
Fresh Fruit Garnish: Enhance the presentation with fresh cherries or seasonal berries. They not only look gorgeous but amplify the fruity flavors.
Coffee or Hot Cocoa: Pair your brownies with a rich cup of coffee or creamy hot cocoa. The beverage will cut through the chocolate richness, creating a balanced dessert experience.

Enjoy experimenting with these options and discover your perfect way to savor these decadent brownies!

Time Breakdown for Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

Preparation Time

Get ready to indulge! The preparation for these roasted chocolate cherry brownies takes about 20 minutes. This includes the time you’ll need to roast those juicy cherries and mix up your brownie batter.

Baking Time

Once everything is prepped, pop your brownies in the oven for 45 minutes. The aroma that fills your kitchen will have everyone buzzing with anticipation!

Total Time

All said and done, you’ll spend about 1 hour and 5 minutes on this delightful dessert, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you're hosting friends or simply treating yourself, these brownies are well worth the time invested!

For more tips on baking and ingredient substitutions, check out websites like King Arthur Baking or Food Network. Enjoy your baking journey!

Nutritional Facts for Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

When you’re indulging in these roasted chocolate cherry brownies, it’s good to know what you're treating yourself to! Each brownie packs a satisfying punch of flavor and nutrition.

Calories per brownie

With approximately 239 calories per delectable brownie, these treats can fit into your dessert plans without too much guilt. Perfect for those cozy evenings when you just need a little chocolate!

Breakdown of macronutrients

Here’s how the roasted chocolate cherry brownies stack up nutritionally:

Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g
Monounsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 22mg
Sodium: 149mg
Potassium: 135mg
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 21g

These brownies not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also offer a little boost from the cherries, adding natural sweetness and antioxidants. For more on the nutritional benefits of cherries, check out resources like the Cherry Marketing Institute. Enjoy these as an occasional treat within a balanced diet!

FAQs about Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

Can I use fresh cherries instead of roasted ones?

Absolutely! While roasted cherries offer a deeper flavor and a unique texture, using fresh cherries is a great alternative. They will add a fresh burst of juiciness to your brownies. Just remember that fresh cherries may make the batter a bit wetter, so adjust your baking time accordingly.

What’s the secret to fudgy brownies?

For those crave-worthy, fudgy brownies, the key lies in not overmixing and using a blend of fats. In this roasted chocolate cherry brownies recipe, the combination of butter and oil ensures moistness while the eggs create that perfect structure. Always bake until the edges are set but the middle is still slightly underdone; this helps achieve that rich, gooey texture.

How do I store leftover brownies?

To keep your brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like them to last longer, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Want a delicious treat anytime? Consider wrapping them individually before freezing!

Conclusion on Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

In conclusion, these roasted chocolate cherry brownies are an irresistible dessert that perfectly balances the rich flavor of chocolate with the tartness of roasted cherries. Easy to make and utterly delicious, they will surely impress at any gathering. Give them a try—you won’t regret it!