Cherry Chocolate Chip Brownies Recipe

Imagine the fudgiest, most decadent brownies you’ve ever tasted, then add a swirl of juicy roasted cherries and gooey chocolate chips — that’s what you get with Cherry Chocolate Chip Brownies! This recipe is pure bliss for chocolate and fruit lovers alike, with a gorgeous crackly top and pockets of tangy, jammy cherries in every bite.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how every ingredient in these Cherry Chocolate Chip Brownies plays an important role in creating their unforgettable flavor and texture. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need, and why each one matters.

• Cherries: Use fresh, sweet cherries for the best results; roasting brings out their fruity flavor and adds natural juiciness.
• Sprinkle of sugar: Just a little bit is all you need to enhance the cherries’ sweetness as they roast and caramelize.
• White granulated sugar: This not only sweetens the brownies, but whips up with eggs to help create that classic shiny, crackly top.
• Large eggs + egg yolk: The extra yolk gives an ultra-rich, fudgy texture while also helping bind everything together.
• Unsalted butter: Adds rich flavor and helps keep the brownies moist.
• Oil (canola or vegetable): Keeps the brownies extra tender and chewy even after they’ve cooled.
• Pure vanilla extract: Don’t skip this! It ties together the chocolate and cherry flavors beautifully.
• All-purpose flour: Just enough for structure without making the brownies cakey.
• Dutch process cocoa powder: Deeper, smoother chocolate flavor and that elegant rich color.
• Cornstarch: The secret to an extra soft, melt-in-your-mouth interior — it lightens the crumb.
• Salt: Just a teaspoon makes all the chocolate and cherry flavors pop, rather than fall flat.
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Extra chocolatey goodness in every bite, with gooey pools throughout.

Variations

The magic of Cherry Chocolate Chip Brownies is how easy they are to tweak! Here are some fun ways to adapt the recipe so it fits your pantry, dietary needs, or wildest dessert dreams.

• Swap the Fruit: Try using raspberries, blackberries, or pitted dark plums instead of cherries for a twist on the classic.
• Go Nuts: Fold in a generous handful of chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch and a nutty depth of flavor.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use dairy-free butter and chocolate chips to make these brownies completely dairy-free without sacrificing fudginess.
• Boost the Chocolate: Sprinkle in a few chunks of dark chocolate or swirl in some chocolate hazelnut spread for an even richer treat.

How to Make Cherry Chocolate Chip Brownies

Step 1: Roast the Cherries

Start by halving, washing, and pitting the cherries, then spread them evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet and sprinkle with sugar. Roasting at 400°F for about 10 minutes amps up their flavor and concentrates their juices without making them mushy — you’ll literally smell how good they’re going to be!

Step 2: Prep the Pan & Dry Ingredients

Lower your oven to 325°F. Spray an 8×8 baking pan with non-stick spray and line two sides with parchment paper for an easy brownie lift later. Give it one more spritz just for insurance! In a bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt, ensuring an even, lump-free batter ahead.

Step 3: Whip the Eggs and Sugar

Using a stand mixer or electric whisk, beat together the white sugar, eggs, and egg yolk on high for a full five minutes. Don’t rush this! The mixture should become super pale and thick — this step guarantees that drool-worthy crackly top and fudgy interior.

Step 4: Combine the Wet Ingredients

While the eggs are whipping, melt the butter and let it cool slightly. Then, with the mixer on low, drizzle in the melted butter, oil, and vanilla. This blend of fats keeps the Cherry Chocolate Chip Brownies rich and decadent from edge to center.

Step 5: Fold in Dry Ingredients, Cherries & Chocolate Chips

Remove the bowl from the mixer. Gently fold in your sifted dry ingredients by hand using a rubber spatula — be gentle so you keep all that lovely aeration. Then, divide your roasted cherries in half: add half to the brownie batter along with all the chocolate chips, folding just until combined.

Step 6: Bake, Chill & Finish

Spread the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top. Bake for 40–50 minutes, until the edges feel set but the middle is still slightly underdone (trust the process!). Top with extra chocolate chips if you like, then cool completely in the pan. For the sharpest squares, pop the brownies in the freezer for 15 minutes before lifting out. Add the rest of the roasted cherries on top, cut, and serve!

How to Serve Cherry Chocolate Chip Brownies

Garnishes

These brownies need little more than a dusting of powdered sugar, but a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce, a cloud of whipped cream, or a few extra fresh cherries on top will make each serving feel extra special. For an elegant touch, a few chocolate curls or sparkling sugar can make them party-ready in seconds.

Side Dishes

Honestly, Cherry Chocolate Chip Brownies are fabulous all on their own, but they’re the ultimate treat paired with a scoop of vanilla or cherry ice cream. A dollop of tangy Greek yogurt or a side of fresh berries is a great way to balance things out if you want to keep it a little lighter!

Creative Ways to Present

For an impressive dessert platter, cut the brownies into small squares and pile them high on a pretty cake stand with even more roasted cherries in the center. Or, for a fun twist, sandwich a scoop of ice cream between two brownie squares for an irresistible summer treat! Tiny brownie bites layered with whipped cream and cherries in shot glasses also make adorable party parfaits.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Cherry Chocolate Chip Brownies tightly covered at room temperature for up to two days — though they’re so irresistible, they rarely last that long! If your kitchen runs warm, stash them in an airtight container in the fridge instead. They’ll stay fudgy and moist for up to five days.

Freezing

Yes, you can absolutely freeze these brownies! Once fully cooled, wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and then foil, or place in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature for a few hours before serving.

Reheating

If you like a warm, gooey center, microwave a brownie for 10–15 seconds before eating — the cherries become extra jammy and the chocolate chips melt all over again. Be careful not to overheat, or the edges may get a bit tough.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving something rich, gooey, and a little fruity, these Cherry Chocolate Chip Brownies are guaranteed to bring smiles all around. I genuinely hope you give them a try — they’re as fun to bake as they are to eat! Let me know how you enjoy them, or if you come up with your own delicious twist.

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