If you love chocolate and cherries, get ready for a treat! These Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownies are rich, moist, and oh-so-indulgent. I’ll guide you through each step, from the simple ingredients to tips for perfecting your brownies. Whether you’re a baking pro or just starting out, you’ll find everything you need here. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Rich Chocolatey Flavor: The combination of cocoa and chocolate ganache makes these brownies irresistibly rich and decadent.
- Bursting with Cherries: Maraschino cherries add a delightful sweetness and a pop of color, making each bite a treat.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Perfect for Sharing: Cut into squares, these brownies are great for gatherings, parties, or just a sweet indulgence at home.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
To make Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownies, gather these items:
– 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained and halved
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap some ingredients for different flavors or dietary needs:
– Use coconut oil instead of unsalted butter for a dairy-free option.
– Replace granulated sugar with brown sugar for a richer taste.
– You can try egg substitutes like applesauce or flaxseed meal for a vegan version.
– Use almond flour for a gluten-free option instead of all-purpose flour.
– Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate chips for a bolder flavor.
Measuring Tips
Accurate measuring is key to great brownies:
– Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially for flour and cocoa.
– When measuring flour, fluff it first, then spoon it into your cup. Avoid packing it down.
– For sticky ingredients like butter, use a measuring cup that has a non-stick surface.
– Use a liquid measuring cup for the heavy cream to get an accurate amount.
– Always level off dry ingredients with a straight edge for consistency.
This careful approach ensures your brownies turn out perfectly every time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and grease it. This helps the brownies come out easily after baking. In a medium saucepan, melt 1 cup of unsalted butter over low heat. Once it is fully melted, take it off the heat. Add 2 cups of granulated sugar and mix well. This is where the magic begins! Next, add 4 large eggs, one at a time. Stir well after each egg. Finally, mix in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for that warm flavor.
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. This dry mix is key for the brownie structure. Gradually add it to your butter and egg mixture. Stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Now, gently fold in half of the 1 cup of maraschino cherries, which adds a burst of flavor. Pour the thick batter into your greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Baking the Brownies
Place your brownie batter in the oven. Bake for about 25 to 30 minutes. You can check if they are done by inserting a toothpick in the center. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, your brownies are perfect! After baking, remove them from the oven. Let them cool in the dish for about 10 minutes. This cooling time helps them set and makes cutting easier.
Making the Chocolate Ganache
While the brownies cool, let’s make the chocolate ganache. In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips with 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Heat over low, stirring until the chocolate is fully melted. The mixture should be smooth and shiny. Once your brownies have cooled, pour the ganache over the top. Spread it evenly, making sure to cover every corner. For a beautiful touch, top with the remaining halved cherries. Let the brownies set at room temperature. You can also refrigerate them for 30 minutes to an hour for a firmer texture. Cut into squares and enjoy your delightful treat!
Tips & Tricks
Baking Tips for Perfect Brownies
To get the best brownies, I focus on a few key steps. First, always use fresh ingredients. Make sure your butter, eggs, and baking powder are not expired. This helps the brownies rise and taste great. Next, measure your flour and cocoa powder carefully. Too much can make them dry.
When mixing the batter, stir just until combined. Over-mixing can lead to tough brownies. I like to fold in the cherries gently. This keeps them whole and juicy.
Finally, keep an eye on the baking time. I check for doneness by inserting a toothpick. It should come out with a few moist crumbs. This shows they are fudgy but not underbaked.
Chocolate Ganache Tips
Making chocolate ganache is simple but requires care. Use good-quality chocolate chips for rich flavor. I prefer semi-sweet chips, but dark chocolate works too.
Heat the cream slowly over low heat. Don’t let it boil, as this can make the ganache grainy. Once melted, stir gently until smooth. If it seems too thick, add a splash more cream.
Let the ganache cool slightly before pouring it over the brownies. This helps it set nicely without running off. For a glossy finish, spread it evenly with a spatula.
Serving Suggestions
To make your brownies extra special, serve them with flair. I love using a decorative plate. Drizzle extra ganache over the top for a rich look.
Garnish with whole cherries for color. You can even add whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This makes each bite a treat.
Lastly, cut the brownies into squares before serving. This way, each piece has that perfect blend of brownie and ganache. Enjoy every bite!
Pro Tips
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: For the best texture, ensure your eggs and butter are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smooth and well-blended batter.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Once you add the dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense brownies instead of a nice, fudgy texture.
- Chill for Firmer Brownies: For cleaner cuts and a firmer texture, refrigerate the brownies for 30 minutes after adding the ganache. This makes slicing easier and enhances the flavors.
- Garnish Creatively: Elevate presentation by garnishing with fresh mint leaves or edible flowers alongside the cherries for a pop of color and freshness.
Variations
Flavor Combinations
You can easily mix flavors in these brownies. Adding nuts gives a nice crunch. Try walnuts or pecans for a richer taste. If you love fruit, mix in raspberries or blueberries. These fruits add a burst of flavor. You can also swirl in peanut butter for a creamy touch. Each combo makes the brownies unique and fun.
Dietary Substitutions
If you need gluten-free brownies, use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour. This change keeps the taste rich and moist. For vegan brownies, replace eggs with flaxseed meal. Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken. Use plant-based butter to replace the regular butter. These swaps make it easy for everyone to enjoy.
Presentation Variations
Make your brownies look fancy with a few simple tricks. Serve them on a colorful plate for a pop of color. Drizzle extra ganache on top for a glossy finish. Add whole cherries or mint leaves for a fresh touch. You can even sprinkle some sea salt to balance the sweetness. These small details make a big impact on how your brownies look and taste.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To store leftover brownies, let them cool completely. Place them in an airtight container. You can keep them at room temperature for up to three days. If you want them to last longer, store them in the fridge. They will stay fresh for about a week in the fridge.
Freezing Instructions
For longer storage, freezing is a great option. First, cut the brownies into squares. Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place the wrapped brownies in a freezer-safe bag. You can freeze them for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them in the fridge overnight.
Best Way to Reheat
To reheat brownies, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the brownies on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 10 minutes. This warms them up without making them dry. You can also microwave them for about 15-20 seconds per square. Enjoy them warm for a soft and gooey treat!
FAQs
How can I make brownies more fudgy?
To make brownies more fudgy, use less flour. You can also add an extra egg. Another tip is to bake them for less time. Check them at 20 minutes. If a toothpick comes out with wet batter, they need more time. Remember, a little gooiness is perfect for fudgy brownies!
Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries! Just pit and chop them into smaller pieces. Fresh cherries give a nice tart flavor. They also add a juicy texture. Make sure to reduce the liquid in the recipe a bit. This keeps the brownies from getting too watery.
How do I know when brownies are done baking?
To check if brownies are done, insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they are ready. If it comes out clean, they may be overbaked. Every oven is different, so keep an eye on them around the 25-minute mark. The edges should look set while the center remains soft.
This blog post covered key steps to make delicious brownies. We reviewed ingredients, measuring tips, and shared easy substitutions. You learned how to bake brownies and make a rich ganache. I shared helpful tips for perfect results and tasty variations for every diet. You also found out how to store leftovers and reheat them well.
In short, making brownies can be simple and fun. Enjoy the process, and happy bakin
