The moment I pull a tray of Fudgy Cherry Brownies from the oven, the rich scent of melting chocolate and tart cherries fills my kitchen, wrapping me in an embrace of nostalgia and comfort. This recipe was born out of a craving for something decadent, yet straightforward enough to make on a weekday when time is of the essence. With just 50 minutes from prep to plate, these brownies become my go-to for surprising guests or indulging in a sweet treat after a long day.
As I mix the batter, the hidden bursts of cherry pie filling create a delightful contrast to the fudgy texture, elevating each bite into something truly special. The glossy ganache drizzled on top adds a touch of elegance that transforms your everyday dessert into an irresistible centerpiece. Perfect for anyone tired of fast food or looking for a homemade indulgence, these brownies promise to please tastes young and old alike. Let’s dive in and make your kitchen the heart of sweet memories!
Why You'll Love This Fudgy Cherry Brownies
- These Fudgy Cherry Brownies are incredibly easy to make, requiring just one bowl and less than an hour from start to finish.
- The combination of rich chocolate and tart cherries creates an explosion of flavor that will leave your taste buds dancing.
- Not only are they delightfully fudgy, but the stunning glossy ganache on top gives them a professional touch, making them perfect for any occasion.
- Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them on a cozy night in, these brownies are sure to be a crowd-pleaser that everyone will adore.
Fudgy Cherry Brownies Ingredients
For the Brownie Batter
• Unsalted butter – 227 grams, providing the rich base that keeps brownies fudgy.
• Granulated sugar – 400 grams, for that perfectly sweet touch that balances the chocolate.
• Large eggs – 4 eggs, essential for binding and giving the brownies their luscious texture.
• Pure vanilla extract – 2 teaspoons, enhancing the overall flavor with a warm sweetness.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder – 55 grams, this is what gives your brownies their deep chocolate flavor.
• Instant espresso powder – 1 teaspoon, a tiny boost that intensifies the chocolate taste.
• All-purpose flour – 125 grams, just the right amount to hold everything together without making them cakey.
• Salt – 0.5 teaspoon, amplifying flavors and balancing the sweetness.
• Baking powder – 0.5 teaspoon, ensuring your brownies rise beautifully.
• Mini chocolate chips – 85 grams, for extra melty pockets of chocolate throughout the brownies.
• Cherry pie filling – 1 can (approximately 540 grams), drained and cherries separated from syrup, adding bursts of fruitiness to every bite.
For the Ganache
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips – 260 grams, the star of the ganache, creating a glossy and rich topping.
• Heavy whipping cream – 180 millilitres, helping the chocolate chips melt down into that dreamy ganache consistency.
How to Make Fudgy Cherry Brownies
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Preheat the oven to 175°C. Line a 23×33-centimetre baking pan with parchment paper, allowing for some overhang. This makes it easy to lift out the brownies later!
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Melt the butter in a large microwave-safe bowl on high for 1 to 2 minutes. Stir in the cocoa powder until smooth and glossy. Allow it to cool slightly before moving to the next step.
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Whisk together the granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract into the cooled butter and cocoa mixture. Blend until everything is fully combined and smooth.
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Add the baking powder, espresso powder, and salt. Gradually fold in the flour just until you don’t see any dry spots; be gentle to keep the brownies fudgy!
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Fold in the mini chocolate chips for extra bits of melty chocolate. Carefully lift cherries from the drained pie filling with a fork and gently incorporate them into the batter to avoid excess syrup.
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Transfer the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs. Cool completely on a wire rack.
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Combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and heavy whipping cream in a medium microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until melted and thickened.
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Whisk the ganache until it is glossy and smooth. Drizzle or pipe it over the cooled brownies. Let the ganache set for 20–30 minutes before slicing into delicious squares.
Optional: Top with additional chocolate chips or a sprinkle of sea salt for added flair.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Fudgy Cherry Brownies?
Indulging in a slice of these brownies creates a sensational experience that begs for delightful accompaniments.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a cool contrast to the fudgy warmth of the brownies, making each bite an exquisite blend of textures. The sweetness of the ice cream balances the tart cherries perfectly.
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Fresh Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream offers a velvety topping that enhances the chocolate richness while adding a touch of elegance to your dessert. It’s like a cloud of joy nestled on your brownie!
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Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling extra chocolate sauce over the top amplifies the chocolatey goodness, turning each corner piece into an indulgent delight. The extra richness will have everyone coming back for seconds.
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Mint Leaves: Place a fresh mint leaf on top to add a pop of color and a refreshing taste that beautifully cuts through the sweetness. This simple garnish elevates your presentation and offers a surprising flavor burst.
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Espresso: A small cup of rich espresso pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the brownies, enhancing the chocolate and cherry flavors. The bitterness of the coffee creates a delightful balance in your dessert experience.
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Cherries Jubilee: This warm cherry topping complements the brownies and creates a decadent dessert experience. Combining warm cherries with the fudgy texture of the brownies takes your dessert to a whole new level of indulgence!
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Milk or Almond Milk: A classic glass of milk works wonders with rich brownies, especially if you love the comforting simplicity of childhood memories. Alternatively, almond milk adds a nutty flavor that pairs exquisitely with chocolate.
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Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These gorgeous treats bring a burst of fresh fruitiness to your plate and add a playful touch when paired with the brownies. They’re not just delicious—they also make for a stunning visual display!
Storage Tips for Fudgy Cherry Brownies
Room Temperature: Store leftover Fudgy Cherry Brownies in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their fudginess and flavor.
Fridge: For longer freshness, refrigerate brownies in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Just allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
Freezer: Freeze brownies for up to 3 months, wrapping each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge before indulging.
Reheating: For a warm treat, reheat individual brownies in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, ensuring they remain soft and delightful.
Make Ahead Options
These Fudgy Cherry Brownies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delightful dessert without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the brownie batter up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the ingredients until combined, cover the bowl tightly, and refrigerate. The mini chocolate chips and cherries can also be folded in just before baking to maintain their freshness. When you’re ready to bake, just pour the cold batter into the prepared pan and allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before popping it into the preheated oven. For the ganache, you can make it up to 3 days ahead; just store it in the fridge and gently reheat it in the microwave before drizzling over the brownies. This way, you’ll indulge in homemade decadence with minimal effort!
Fudgy Cherry Brownies Variations
Feel free to explore these delicious twists on your Fudgy Cherry Brownies that’ll tantalize your taste buds and elevate your baking game!
- Nutty Crunch: Add 100 grams of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the fudgy texture.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate chips to create a rich, indulgent treat for those avoiding dairy.
- Minty Fresh: Stir in 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract along with the vanilla for a refreshing mint chocolate experience that feels festive all year round!
- Caramel Swirl: Drizzle homemade or store-bought caramel sauce into the brownie batter before baking for a sweet surprise that adds a decadent twist to each bite.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper into the batter for a surprising heat that will intrigue adventurous palates and keep everyone guessing!
- Raspberry Bliss: Swap out cherry pie filling for raspberry preserves or fresh raspberries for a tangy flavor profile that pairs perfectly with the chocolate.
- Peanut Butter Swirl: Add dollops of creamy or crunchy peanut butter on top of the brownie batter and swirl with a knife before baking for a delightful PB&J-inspired delight.
- Coffee Lovers: Enhance the espresso powder to 2 teaspoons or add a shot of freshly brewed coffee to intensify the chocolatey aroma, perfect for coffee aficionados!
Each variation offers an exciting new flavor experience, allowing you to make these brownies truly your own masterpiece!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the Fudgy Cherry Brownies, make sure your butter is melted but not hot, as overheating can lead to greasy brownies.
- When adding the flour, fold just until combined to maintain that fudgy texture; overmixing can create a tougher brownie.
- If you want an even richer chocolate flavor, consider using dark chocolate chips in addition to semi-sweet for the ganache.
- Always check your brownies a few minutes before the minimum baking time to avoid overbaking them, as they will continue to cook a bit even after you remove them from the oven.
Fudgy Cherry Brownies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best cherries for my Fudgy Cherry Brownies?
Absolutely! When selecting cherries for your brownies, look for bright, plump cherries without bruises or dark spots. If using fresh cherries, they should be firm to the touch and have a shiny appearance. However, since this recipe calls for cherry pie filling, draining them is essential to avoid excess syrup that can alter the texture of your brownies.
How should I store leftover Fudgy Cherry Brownies?
You can keep your brownies at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days to preserve their fudgy texture. For longer storage, refrigerate them in a container for up to a week. Just let them warm up to room temperature before enjoying, so they regain their delightful consistency.
Can I freeze Fudgy Cherry Brownies?
Very! To freeze your brownies, first, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap to avoid freezer burn, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. You can freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and treat yourself to a warm brownie by microwaving it for 15-20 seconds.
What if my brownies are too cakey after baking?
If your brownies turn out too cakey, it’s likely due to overmixing the batter or baking them too long. Make sure to gently fold in the flour until no dry spots remain and check your brownies a few minutes before the suggested baking time. Remember, you want moist crumbs on the toothpick, not a clean one!
Are Fudgy Cherry Brownies suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
When it comes to dietary considerations, this recipe contains gluten and dairy, but it can be modified to accommodate certain restrictions. You could substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and use dairy-free chocolate to make them suitable for those with lactose intolerance. Always double-check ingredients on labels if serving someone with allergies.
What’s the best way to prepare the ganache for my brownies?
To make the ganache, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and heavy whipping cream in a medium microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until everything melts into a smooth, thick mixture. Whisk until glossy, and pipe or drizzle it over your cooled brownies. Let it set for 20-30 minutes before serving, and you’ll have a decadent finish to your fudgy cherry brownies!
Fudgy Cherry Brownies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 175°C. Line a 23×33-centimetre baking pan with parchment paper, allowing for some overhang.
- Melt the butter in a large microwave-safe bowl on high for 1 to 2 minutes. Stir in the cocoa powder until smooth and glossy and allow it to cool slightly.
- Whisk together the granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract into the cooled butter and cocoa mixture until fully combined.
- Add the baking powder, espresso powder, and salt. Gradually fold in the flour just until combined; do not overmix.
- Fold in the mini chocolate chips and incorporate the cherries without excess syrup.
- Transfer the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs. Cool completely on a wire rack.
- Combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and heavy whipping cream in a medium bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until melted and thickened.
- Whisk the ganache until glossy and smooth. Drizzle over the cooled brownies and let set for 20–30 minutes before slicing.
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