Name: Roasted Cherry Brownies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 2 cups sweet cherries, pitted, halved; 2 teaspoons granulated sugar; 1 ¼ cups semisweet chocolate chips, divided; ¾ cup vegetable oil; 1 cup granulated sugar; ⅔ cup light brown sugar, packed; 3 large eggs, room temperature; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup Dutch-processed cocoa powder; ½ teaspoon kosher salt

Introduction to Roasted Cherry Brownies

Why Roasted Cherry Brownies are a Game Changer for Homemade Desserts

If you’re looking to elevate your dessert game, it’s time to indulge in the decadent world of roasted cherry brownies. Imagine sinking your teeth into a rich, fudgy brownie that’s not only bursting with chocolate but also enhanced by the bold sweetness of caramelized cherries. The roasting process transforms the cherries, intensifying their flavor and giving them a delightful depth that pairs perfectly with the chocolate.

These brownies are more than just a treat; they’re a culinary experience. The contrast between the luscious chocolate and the warm, juicy cherries creates a symphony of flavors that is sure to impress anyone lucky enough to take a bite. According to a study by the University of Massachusetts, foods that combine different textures and flavors can significantly enhance your eating experience. With each mouthful, you’ll find yourself agreeing!

Not only are roasted cherry brownies easy to make, but they also present beautifully, making them a fantastic option for everything from casual gatherings to special celebrations. Who wouldn’t want to wow their guests with a dessert that looks as good as it tastes? Try out this recipe and get ready for rave reviews!

Ingredients for Roasted Cherry Brownies

Creating the most delightful roasted cherry brownies begins with gathering some fresh and flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Cherries

2 cups (276 g) sweet cherries, pitted and halved
2 teaspoons granulated sugar

Start with sweet cherries, which not only bring a luscious flavor but also provide a beautiful splash of color. Take that extra time to pit and halve them; trust me, it's worth it for the texture and sweetness!

Brownies

1 ¼ cups (227.5 g) semisweet chocolate chips, divided
¾ cup (163.5 g) vegetable oil
1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
⅔ cup (133 g) light brown sugar, packed
3 large eggs, room temperature
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
1 cup (118 g) Dutch-processed cocoa powder
½ teaspoon kosher salt

These brownie ingredients create an indulgent and rich base that perfectly complements our roasted cherries. The combination of semisweet chocolate chips and cocoa powder will guarantee a decadent chocolate experience in every bite.

Check out this guide on choosing the best chocolate for baking to elevate your brownie game even further!

Step-by-Step Preparation of Roasted Cherry Brownies

Making roasted cherry brownies is not just about baking; it’s an experience—a delightful fusion of flavors that’s perfect for any occasion. Follow these simple steps to create a batch that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Prepare the Roasted Cherries

Roasting cherries might seem like a small step, but it elevates their flavor to new heights. Here’s how to do it:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to avoid any sticky mess.
Spread 2 cups of pitted and halved cherries across the lined baking sheet and sprinkle them with 2 teaspoons of granulated sugar. This will help bring out their sweetness.
Roast in the oven for about 10 minutes. The cherries should soften and caramelize slightly, making them irresistibly delicious! Set them aside while you get started on the brownie batter.

Mix the Brownie Batter

Now comes the fun part! Let’s whip up that rich brownie batter.

Lower the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×9-inch baking dish by spraying it with nonstick cooking spray.
In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine ½ cup of chocolate chips with ¾ cup of vegetable oil. Microwave in 15-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully melted and smooth.
In a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, add 1 cup of granulated sugar, ⅔ cup light brown sugar, 3 large eggs, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Beat on high speed for 5-6 minutes, or until the mix is light and fluffy. This aeration is key for a perfectly textured brownie!
Slowly pour in the melted chocolate mixture on low speed and mix just until combined.

Bake the Brownies

With the batter ready, it’s time to bake!

In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of Dutch-processed cocoa powder, and ½ teaspoon of kosher salt.
Gently fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
Incorporate the remaining ¾ cup of chocolate chips and half of the roasted cherries into the batter.
Pour it into the prepared baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes. You want a toothpick inserted into the center to come out with moist crumbs, but not wet batter—this is critical for that fudgy texture.

Add the Roasted Cherries on Top

Once baked, let’s add those beautiful roasted cherries as a finishing touch!

Gently place the other half of the roasted cherries on top of the brownies right after you take them out of the oven. This enhances both the taste and presentation of your roasted cherry brownies.

Cooling and Serving

Patience is a virtue, especially in baking!

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for about 20-30 minutes. This helps them set properly and makes cutting easier.
Cut into squares and serve warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra treat.

Now, you are set to enjoy these decadent roasted cherry brownies that are sure to impress your friends and family! So, go ahead—indulge in a slice (or two)!

Variations on Roasted Cherry Brownies

Brownies with Different Fruit Toppings

Switch up your roasted cherry brownies by trying them with other fruits! Sliced strawberries, raspberries, or peaches can bring a delightful twist. Each fruit adds its own unique flavor and sweetness, making your brownies feel different every time. Simply roast the fruit as you do with cherries, then incorporate it into the brownie batter or use it as a topping. You can even mix fruits for a fun, colorful dessert!

Gluten-Free Roasted Cherry Brownies

For those avoiding gluten, it's easy to adapt this recipe! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to maintain that fudgy texture. Also, ensure that your chocolate chips are gluten-free, as not all brands can guarantee it. These gluten-free roasted cherry brownies will be just as delicious and perfect for any gathering! You won’t even miss the gluten as you bite into these chocolatey treats.

For more delicious variations and tips, check out King Arthur Baking's guide to gluten-free baking or Fruit for Thought: How to Roast Fruits. Enjoy experimenting!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Roasted Cherry Brownies

When making these roasted cherry brownies, there are simple tricks to elevate their flavor and texture. First, ensure your cherries are ripe and sweet—this adds a beautiful, natural sweetness to the final product. A quick tip: if you want a deeper flavor, consider roasting the cherries for a minute longer until they caramelize.

For the brownies, using room temperature ingredients helps create a smoother batter. When incorporating the melted chocolate, mix just until combined to keep that chewy texture. Remember, when testing for doneness, a toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs, not clean.

For more expert tips on baking, check out King Arthur Baking or Food52!

Serving Suggestions for Roasted Cherry Brownies

After whipping up a batch of these delectable roasted cherry brownies, you might wonder how to make the most of them. Here are a few serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience:

A La Mode: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. The creaminess beautifully balances the rich chocolate and tart cherries.
Garnish: Top the brownies with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for a polished look.
Pair It Off: Enjoy with a hot cup of coffee or a chilled glass of almond milk for a delightful contrast of flavors.
Elevated Flavor: For a touch of elegance, add a few toasted nuts like almonds or walnuts on top.

These simple enhancements will not only impress your guests but will also take your roasted cherry brownies to the next level!

Time Breakdown for Roasted Cherry Brownies

Preparation Time
Get ready for a delicious baking experience! You'll need about 15 minutes to prep your ingredients and roast those sweet cherries.

Baking Time
Once you've mixed everything together, bake your roasted cherry brownies for 30-35 minutes. Perfectly timed for a coffee break or catching up on a favorite show!

Total Time
All in all, you'll spend around 50-55 minutes from start to finish. Trust us; this time is well spent for a treat that'll impress friends and family!

If you're excited to dive into this recipe, check out these tips on how to choose the best cherries for roasting from The Spruce Eats—they'll elevate your brownies even further!

Nutritional Facts for Roasted Cherry Brownies

Understanding the nutritional profile of your favorite sweets can help you enjoy them guilt-free! Here are the key nutritional facts for roasted cherry brownies:

Calories

Each brownie packs approximately 280 calories, making it a delightful treat that won’t completely derail your daily goals.

Sugar

With about 22 grams of sugar per serving, these brownies are sweet enough to satisfy your cravings while providing a fruity twist from the roasted cherries.

Fat

Containing around 15 grams of fat, primarily from the semi-sweet chocolate and vegetable oil, these brownies offer a creamy texture that enhances their indulgent flavor.

If you’re looking for a delicious balance of flavor and nutrition, these roasted cherry brownies can be an excellent choice for dessert or a sweet pick-me-up!

FAQs about Roasted Cherry Brownies

Can I use frozen cherries for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen cherries can be a great alternative if you can’t find fresh ones. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before use to prevent excess moisture in your roasted cherry brownies. They’ll still offer that delicious burst of flavor!

How do I store leftovers?
If you find yourself with extra brownies (which can be hard to believe!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate them for a week, or freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them well to avoid freezer burn!

What can I substitute for vegetable oil?
If you’re looking for alternatives to vegetable oil, options like melted coconut oil, unsweetened applesauce, or even butter can work well. Each will impart a slightly different flavor and texture, adding a unique twist to your roasted cherry brownies!

Conclusion on Roasted Cherry Brownies

In summary, roasted cherry brownies offer a delicious twist on traditional brownies. The combination of rich chocolate and sweet, caramelized cherries creates a memorable dessert that’s perfect for sharing. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging at home, these brownies are sure to impress. Give them a try!