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 unsalted butter; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup pitted and chopped cherries

Highlighted under: Daily Meals

I’m excited to share my Chocolate Cherry Brownies recipe! The combination of rich chocolate and tart cherries creates a unique flavor profile that's simply irresistible. The fudgy texture of the brownies combined with the juicy cherries results in a delightful treat that satisfies any sweet tooth. I’ve often made these brownies for gatherings, and they never fail to impress. Whether you serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or on their own, they’re always a hit. Let’s get baking!

Created by

Belinda Fraser

Last updated on 2026-01-12T07:45:35.240Z

When I first combined chocolate and cherries, I knew I stumbled upon something special. The tartness of the cherries cuts through the richness of the chocolate, creating a balance that’s hard to resist. Baking these brownies has become a tradition in my kitchen, particularly when I need to impress friends and family. They’ve made countless birthdays and celebrations a little sweeter, and I love how versatile they are!

One key tip I’ve learned is to use fresh cherries if possible, as they infuse the brownies with a juicy burst of flavor. If fresh aren’t available, frozen works, but be sure to drain any excess liquid. These little tweaks can turn a regular brownie into something truly spectacular!

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        Decadent chocolate flavor enhanced with sweet cherries
Fudgy, moist texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in

      

Key Techniques for Perfect Brownies

Achieving the ideal brownie texture requires careful attention to your mixing technique. Overmixing the batter can lead to denser, cakey brownies, while under-mixing may result in uneven distribution of ingredients. When combining the dry ingredients with the wet mixture, mix until just combined—this helps maintain the fudgy texture. You want to see a few flour streaks before folding in the cherries, which should be done gently to prevent them from breaking down too much.

Baking time is crucial, so keep an eye on your brownies as they approach the 25-minute mark. Start checking for doneness a few minutes early. You’re looking for a slightly cracked top and edges that pull away from the pan. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs attached, indicating a perfect fudgy interior. If it comes out clean, they might be overbaked.

Ingredient Insights

The balance of flavors comes from the sweet cherries and rich chocolate, so choosing ripe, flavorful cherries is essential. If fresh cherries are out of season, you can substitute with frozen cherries—just make sure to thaw and drain excess liquid before adding them to the batter. The cocoa powder chosen also matters; opt for high-quality Dutch-processed cocoa for a smoother chocolate flavor while unsweetened cocoa provides a more intense chocolate taste.

Don't underestimate the role of unsalted butter in achieving the right balance in flavor. By using unsalted butter, you can control the saltiness and enhance the overall taste of the brownies. If you're unable to use butter, trying a high-quality margarine or coconut oil can provide a similar texture, though they may slightly alter the flavor profile.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your delightful brownies.

Brownie Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup pitted and chopped cherries

Once you have all your ingredients ready, let’s move on to baking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your mouthwatering Chocolate Cherry Brownies.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x13 inch baking pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.

Melt the Butter

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the sugar until well combined.

Mix in Eggs and Vanilla

Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then whisk in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and glossy.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

Fold in Cherries

Gently fold in the chopped cherries, being careful not to overmix.

Bake the Brownies

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Cut into squares and enjoy!

Once baked, these brownies are perfect to serve warm or at room temperature.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, top with whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar before serving.

Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate Cherry Brownies are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. They shine when served warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream, which adds a creamy contrast to the dense, fudgy brownie. A drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce on top can elevate the dessert even further. Garnish with fresh mint for a pop of color and added freshness.

For a different presentation, consider cutting the brownies into bite-sized squares, perfect for parties. You can even dust them lightly with powdered sugar or cocoa powder for a refined look. Pair them with coffee or a glass of dessert wine to create a sophisticated treat for gatherings.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're making these brownies in advance, they store well at room temperature for up to three days, kept in an airtight container. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature, or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to bring back that gooey texture.

To avoid drying out the brownies, ensure they are completely cool before wrapping and storing. If you find they’ve become a bit stale in storage, heating them briefly in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes can help restore some of the original moisture and fudginess.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cherries?

Yes, frozen cherries work well but make sure to drain excess liquid before adding them to the batter.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I add nuts to the recipe?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans would be a great addition if you like a crunchy texture.

→ How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend; just make sure it’s suitable for baking.