There’s a certain joy that comes from transforming simple ingredients into a dessert that’s both decadent and delightful. Imagine biting into a rich, fudgy brownie only to uncover a surprising burst of sweet maraschino cherry at its heart. These Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs do just that, blending the comfort of home-baked brownies with an unexpected twist that takes your sweet tooth on a thrilling adventure.
After a long week, I was searching for a way to impress friends at our weekend get-together, but I wanted to keep it simple. This recipe not only fit the bill but also allowed me to indulge in a little creativity. With just a few steps, I ended up with these delightful, bite-sized treats that had everyone raving. Every bite offers a delightful contrast of rich chocolate and juicy cherries—combining the flavors of classic sweets with a modern twist.
Let’s dive into the recipe, where you’ll find that gourmet desserts don’t have to be complicated to be extraordinary!
Why You'll Love This Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs
- This recipe is incredibly easy to make, allowing you to whip up a stunning dessert without any hassle.
- The rich, fudgy brownies combined with the sweet burst of cherries create a flavor explosion that will leave everyone craving more.
- These brownie bombs are versatile enough to impress at any gathering, whether it’s a casual get-together or a formal celebration.
- Not only do they look irresistibly appealing with their chocolate coating, but they are also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have your guests talking long after the last bite.
Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs Ingredients
For the Brownie Base
• Brownie mix – this is the foundation of our chewy and fudgy brownie bombs.
• Vegetable oil – adds moisture and helps the brownies remain tender.
• Water – necessary for combining and activating the brownie mix.
• Large eggs – at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
For the Filling
• Whipped chocolate frosting – gives that creamy richness and a sweet surprise in every bite.
• Maraschino cherries – use patted dry cherries to avoid excess moisture that may make the bombs soggy.
For Coating
• Chocolate almond bark – melts beautifully to create a luscious, smooth coating for your brownie bombs.
These ingredients are the secret to crafting your own delightful Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs that are sure to impress!
How to Make Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs
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Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F). Generously spray your 22×33 cm baking dish with nonstick baker’s spray. Preparing the pan ensures easy release and keeps those brownie bombs perfectly intact!
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Combine the brownie mix, vegetable oil, water, and eggs in a medium mixing bowl. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Spread the batter evenly in the prepared dish and bake it according to package instructions. Allow it to cool completely before proceeding.
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Crumble half of the cooled brownies into a large bowl. Spoon half of the whipped chocolate frosting over the crumbled brownies. Crumble the remaining brownies on top, add the rest of the frosting, and mix gently with a large spoon until everything is evenly blended.
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Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a 22 ml (1½ tablespoon) scoop, portion out the brownie mixture. Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten slightly and create an indentation with your thumb. Place a maraschino cherry in the center, enclosing it securely before rolling to seal. Arrange the formed balls on the lined baking sheet and chill them in the refrigerator for 60 minutes.
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Break the chocolate almond bark into pieces and place them in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring after each interval, until the chocolate is melted and smooth. Take your time—don’t rush the melting process!
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Submerge each chilled brownie ball in the melted almond bark to coat evenly. Lift each ball with a fork, tapping gently to remove any excess coating, and then set them back onto the parchment paper. Repeat this for all brownie balls and refrigerate until fully set and ready to serve.
Optional: Drizzle with extra melted chocolate for a decorative touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs are fantastic for meal prep! You can bake the brownies and crumble them up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring they stay fresh and fudgy. After crumbling, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their moist texture. You can also scoop and form the brownie bombs, then chill them in the fridge for up to 3 days before coating them in the melted chocolate almond bark. When you’re ready to serve, simply dip them in the melted chocolate and refrigerate until set. This approach allows you to enjoy delicious homemade treats without the last-minute rush!
How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs
Room Temperature: Place the brownie bombs in an airtight container and store them for up to 3 days. Enjoy them at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate the brownie bombs in an airtight container for up to a week. Let them sit for a few minutes at room temperature before enjoying to enhance their taste.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the brownie bombs in a single layer, then transfer to an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating: If you like your brownie bombs warm, simply microwave them for about 10 seconds. This will slightly melt the chocolate coating and enhance the flavors of the Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs.
Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity with these delightful twists that can elevate your Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs to new heights!
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Nutty Crunch: Incorporate chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the brownie mix for added texture and a delightful crunch. The nuts complement the rich chocolate and cherries beautifully.
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Dairy-Free: Substitute almond bark with dairy-free chocolate chips and use a dairy-free brownie mix for a vegan-friendly treat. They’ll be just as delicious without sacrificing flavor.
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Flavored Frosting: Use raspberry or strawberry frosting instead of chocolate for a fruity twist that enhances the cherry flavor. This adds an exciting new layer to each bite.
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Minty Delight: Add a drop of peppermint extract to the brownie mixture for a refreshing minty flavor. Coat the bombs with green tinted white chocolate for a festive look.
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Zesty Citrus: Mix in some orange zest into the brownie batter to offer a bright contrast to the fudgy chocolate and cherries. The citrus adds a delicious zing!
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the melted chocolate for an unexpected warmth to your dessert. This adds an intriguing depth to the sweet flavors.
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Cookie Dough Filling: Replace the cherry with a spoonful of edible cookie dough for a decadently sweet surprise inside. It’s a rich experience that cookie lovers won’t resist.
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Gourmet Drizzle: After coating, drizzle with white chocolate or caramel sauce for an added gourmet touch that looks stunning and tastes divine. It’ll surely impress your guests!
What to Serve with Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs?
Imagine serving a selection of delightful companions that elevate your indulgent treats to a feast of flavors and textures.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that offsets the richness of the brownie bombs with creamy sweetness and coolness.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy berries and tropical fruits provide a refreshing contrast, balancing the richness of the chocolate and cherries.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, it adds a luscious touch that perfectly complements every bite of the brownie bombs, enhancing their indulgence.
- Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: For those who crave more chocolate, a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce enhances the decadent experience of these gooey treats.
- Espresso or Coffee: The bold flavors of coffee harmonize beautifully with the sweet, chocolatey flavors, making it an excellent pairing for a dessert coffee break.
- Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle crunchy nuts like walnuts or pecans over the brownie bombs for added texture and a hint of savory flavor to balance the sweetness.
- Sweet Dessert Wine: A glass of dessert wine adds a touch of elegance, bringing out the cherry flavors and rounding out a sophisticated dessert experience.
- Chocolate Milkshake: For a fun twist, serve with a thick chocolate milkshake. It’s a nostalgic, indulgent combination that will delight kids and adults alike.
Each of these accompaniments creates a delightful experience while savoring your Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure your Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs come out perfectly, always mix the brownie batter until just combined to avoid tough brownies.
- Be sure to pat the maraschino cherries dry before adding them to prevent excess moisture that can make the bombs soggy.
- When rolling the brownie mixture into balls, make sure to seal the cherry completely inside to keep the filling intact during coating.
- Melt the chocolate almond bark in short intervals and stir in between to achieve that silky smooth consistency without burning.
Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs Recipe FAQs
What type of brownie mix works best for these brownie bombs?
Absolutely! Any standard brownie mix will work well, but I recommend using a fudgy mix for that rich, gooey texture. Look for a mix that specifies a chewy or fudgy result, as these will hold up better with the added moisture from the cherries.
How should I store Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs?
You can store these delicious brownie bombs in different ways! At room temperature, keep them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If you prefer them chilled, they can stay in the fridge for up to a week. Just allow them to sit for a few minutes outside the fridge before devouring to bring back their delightful flavor.
Can I freeze Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs?
Definitely! To freeze, arrange the brownie bombs in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer for about an hour until solid. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, and they’ll be good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight.
What should I do if my brownie mixture is too dry?
If you find that your brownie mixture is on the dry side, don’t fret! You can add a splash of warm water or a touch of extra vegetable oil—about 1 tablespoon at a time—mixing gently until you achieve the desired consistency. Make sure to keep stirring until everything is well combined, and remember, a little extra liquid can work wonders!
Are these brownie bombs suitable for gluten-free diets?
For sure! If you’re making these Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs for someone with a gluten intolerance or celiac disease, simply choose a gluten-free brownie mix. There are plenty of options available that taste just as delicious as regular mixes! Just ensure all your ingredients, like almond bark, are also gluten-free.
Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
Yes, you can! If you’re a fan of fresh fruit, feel free to substitute fresh cherries. Just be sure to pit and chop them, and keep in mind that they’ll introduce more moisture. Slice them in half, remove the pit, and dry them slightly with a paper towel. That way, you can keep the same delightful burst of cherry flavor without the added sweetness of maraschinos. Enjoy!
Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownie Bombs
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F). Generously spray your baking dish with nonstick baker's spray.
- Combine the brownie mix, vegetable oil, water, and eggs in a mixing bowl and stir until just combined. Spread the batter in the prepared dish and bake according to package instructions. Allow to cool completely.
- Crumble half of the cooled brownies into a bowl. Spoon half of the whipped chocolate frosting over crumbled brownies. Crumble remaining brownies on top, add remaining frosting, and mix gently until blended.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a scoop, portion out the brownie mixture, roll into balls, flatten slightly, and add a maraschino cherry to the center. Seal and chill for 60 minutes.
- Break chocolate almond bark into pieces and microwave in intervals, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Submerge each chilled brownie ball in the melted almond bark, remove excess coating, and place on parchment paper. Refrigerate until set.
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