Chocolate Cherry Brownies

Name: Chocolate Cherry Brownies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup of unsalted butter; 2 cups of granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract; 1 cup of all-purpose flour; 1 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon of baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon of salt; 1 cup of pitted cherries, fresh or frozen; 1/2 cup of chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making these Chocolate Cherry Brownies when I want something decadent yet easy. The rich chocolate pairs beautifully with the tart cherries, creating a delightful contrast that keeps me coming back for more. Each bite is like a mini celebration, and I find that they satisfy my sweet tooth without being overly sweet. I usually share them at gatherings, where they're always a hit. If you're looking for a dessert that combines rich flavors and a chewy texture, these brownies are a must-try!

Created by

Margaret Hill

Last updated on 2026-01-13T05:16:12.315Z

When I first experimented with adding cherries to my brownie mix, I wasn’t sure how it would turn out. To my surprise, the combination of chocolate and cherries created a luscious depth of flavor that is simply irresistible. The cherries add moisture and a tangy burst, elevating the standard brownie into something extraordinary.

One tip I've learned is to use fresh or frozen cherries that are pitted and halved, as they give the ultimate juicy bite. Be sure to fold them gently into the batter so that each piece gets evenly distributed. Trust me, these brownies will quickly become a favorite in your home!

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        The delightful balance of rich chocolate and tart cherries.
A fudgy texture that melts in your mouth.
Perfect for sharing at parties or indulging on a cozy night in.

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The primary elements in these Chocolate Cherry Brownies offer a wonderful interplay of flavors and textures. The unsalted butter is essential as it balances the sweetness of the sugar and enhances the rich chocolate flavor. When melting the butter, I recommend doing it over low heat to prevent any scorching. Using room temperature eggs also helps create a smoother batter, so consider taking them out of the fridge beforehand.

The pitted cherries add a burst of tartness that beautifully contrasts the sweet chocolate. If fresh cherries aren't available, frozen ones work perfectly too—just ensure they're fully thawed and drained to prevent excess moisture in the batter. Additionally, you can use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a richer taste, or try adding white chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.

Tips for Perfect Brownies

When mixing the dry ingredients, sifting them together helps to eliminate any clumps, resulting in a smooth and uniform brownie batter. Adding the dry mix gradually to the wet mixture avoids overmixing, which can lead to dense brownies. You’ll know you've achieved the right consistency when the batter is thick but smooth, with a glossy finish on top before baking.

Baking the brownies requires careful observation. Aim for a bake time of 25-30 minutes, and start checking around the 25-minute mark. The brownies are done when a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs—this ensures they remain fudgy. If overbaked, you'll lose that desirable chewy texture, so it’s better to err on the side of slightly underbaked than to risk dryness.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your Chocolate Cherry Brownies:

Ingredients

1 cup of unsalted butter
2 cups of granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
1 cup of all-purpose flour
1 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon of baking powder
1/2 teaspoon of salt
1 cup of pitted cherries, fresh or frozen
1/2 cup of chocolate chips

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious brownies:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.

Melt the Butter

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

Mix in Eggs and Vanilla

Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then mix in the eggs and vanilla extract until smooth.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.

Fold in Cherries and Chocolate Chips

Gently fold the pitted cherries and chocolate chips into the brownie batter.

Bake the Brownies

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with a few crumbs.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan before cutting them into squares and serving.

Enjoy your delicious homemade brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider sprinkling sea salt on top before baking. It enhances the chocolate and cherry combo beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

These brownies can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. For an indulgent treat, serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top, allowing the ice cream to melt slightly and create a delicious contrast with the warm brownies. Drizzling some chocolate or cherry sauce can elevate the presentation and flavor.

Alternatively, sprinkle powdered sugar on top for a simple yet elegant finish. If you want to take it up a notch, consider adding a few fresh cherries as a garnish. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds another layer of freshness that complements the rich flavors.

Make-Ahead and Storage

These Chocolate Cherry Brownies are ideal for make-ahead desserts. You can prepare the batter a day in advance, refrigerate it, and bake it the next day for fresher brownies. Just remember to bring the batter to room temperature for even baking. Once baked, let the brownies cool completely before storing them.

To store, keep the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can freeze them for up to three months. Cut them into squares and wrap each piece in plastic wrap, placing them in a freezer-safe container. Thawing them can be done at room temperature or briefly in the microwave.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried cherries instead of fresh or frozen?

Yes, you can use dried cherries, but consider soaking them in warm water for about 10 minutes to plump them up before adding to the batter.

→ How can I store leftover brownies?

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

→ Can I freeze the brownies?

Absolutely! Wrap the cooled brownies tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. They can be kept for up to 3 months.

→ What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe?

For a vegan option, you can use flax eggs. Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let sit for a few minutes until thickened.