Hey y’all! If you’re looking for a dessert that combines the rich, fudgy goodness of brownies with the sweet, tangy flavor of roasted cherries, you’ve come to the right place. These Roasted Cherry Brownies are perfect for a cozy night in, a summer picnic, or your next holiday gathering. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This
- Rich and fudgy texture makes each bite a chocolate lover’s dream.
- Roasted cherries add a burst of juicy sweetness.
- Perfect for both casual and formal occasions.
- Easy to make with simple ingredients you likely have on hand.
- Customizable with various flavor variations.
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 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
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Directions
Step 1: Roast the Cherries
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Toss the cherries with olive oil on a baking sheet and roast for 10-15 minutes until they are soft and slightly caramelized.
Step 2: Prepare the Brownie Batter
Melt the butter in a saucepan over low heat. Remove from heat and stir in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Gradually mix in the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder until smooth.
Step 3: Combine and Bake
Gently fold the roasted cherries into the batter. Spread the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let cool before serving.
Notes
- For an extra depth of flavor, try adding a pinch of espresso powder to the batter. Learn more about baking with coffee.
- If your cherries are not very sweet, consider adding a tablespoon of sugar before roasting.
- Substituting half the butter with applesauce can reduce the fat content without sacrificing moisture.
Variations
- Nuts & Chocolate Chips: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts and 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the batter for extra texture.
- Orange Zest: Mix in 1 tablespoon of orange zest for a citrusy twist.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute with almond flour for a gluten-free version.
Required Equipment
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Baking sheet
- Saucepan
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Storage Instructions
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months.
Suggested Pairings
Serve these brownies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a grown-up twist, pair them with a glass of red wine.
Pro Tips
- Let the brownies cool completely before cutting to ensure clean slices. How to cut brownies perfectly.
- Use high-quality cocoa powder for a richer chocolate flavor.
- To avoid overbaking, check the brownies a few minutes before the recommended time.
FAQ
Can I use frozen cherries?
Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain them well before roasting.
What can I use as a butter substitute?
Try coconut oil or a plant-based spread for a dairy-free option.
How can I make them more chocolatey?
Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the batter for extra chocolate goodness.