Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

Few desserts can compete with the indulgent, fudgy perfection of chocolate cherry brownies, especially when we take things up a notch with roasted cherries. This flavor-packed twist marries deep chocolate richness with tart, jammy cherries, creating a luxurious bite that tastes like something straight out of a high-end bakery.

Here’s exactly how to make roasted chocolate cherry brownies that are gooey, chewy, and utterly unforgettable.

Why These Brownies Are a Game-Changer

• Roasting cherries intensifies their flavor and brings out natural sweetness.
• High-quality cocoa and dark chocolate make them deeply rich and fudgy.
• Balanced with tartness to prevent overwhelming sweetness.
• Perfect texture: crackly top, chewy center, crisp edges.
• Ideal for celebrations, romantic desserts, or serious chocolate cravings.

Ingredients for Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

For the Roasted Cherries

• 1½ cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of sea salt

For the Brownie Batter

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
• 8 oz dark chocolate, chopped
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• 3 large eggs + 1 yolk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt

How to Make Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

Step 1: Roast the Cherries

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Toss the cherries with honey/maple syrup, vanilla, and sea salt.
• Spread them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Roast for 15–20 minutes, until juices are bubbling and slightly thickened.
• Let them cool while you prepare the brownie batter.

Pro Tip: Roasting removes excess moisture, preventing soggy brownies and delivering an intense cherry flavor.

Step 2: Melt Butter and Chocolate

• In a heatproof bowl, melt butter and chopped chocolate over a double boiler or in short bursts in the microwave.
• Stir until smooth, glossy, and well combined.
• Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Whip Eggs and Sugars

• In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, egg yolk, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract.
• Beat for 2–3 minutes until light, fluffy, and slightly thickened. This gives the brownies that classic crackly top.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

• Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
• Gently fold the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture.
• Add the dry ingredients and stir just until combined—don’t overmix.

Step 5: Fold in Roasted Cherries

• Drain off any excess juice from the roasted cherries (you can reserve it for a drizzle).
• Fold half the cherries into the batter.
• Spread into a greased and parchment-lined 9×9-inch pan.
• Dot the remaining cherries on top.

Step 6: Bake to Fudgy Perfection

• Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30–35 minutes, or until the center is just set.
• A toothpick inserted should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter.
• Cool completely in the pan before slicing.

Flavor Variations You’ll Love

• Boozy Brownies: Soak cherries in bourbon or amaretto before roasting.
• Double Cherry: Add chopped dried cherries to the batter for extra texture.
• Nutty Crunch: Fold in toasted walnuts or almonds for contrast.
• Cherry Cheesecake Swirl: Add dollops of cream cheese batter before baking.

Serving Suggestions

• Warm with vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of cherry syrup.
• Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted dark chocolate.
• Pair with a glass of red wine or strong coffee for an elevated experience.

Storage and Freezing Tips

• Store in an airtight container at room temp for 3–4 days.
• Refrigerate for longer shelf life—up to a week.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temp and warm slightly before serving.

Nutritional Information (Per Brownie, Approximate)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen cherries?

Yes. Thaw and drain them well before roasting to avoid excess moisture.

What’s the best chocolate for these brownies?

Use 60–70% dark chocolate bars (not chips) for the richest flavor.

Can I skip roasting the cherries?

Technically yes, but roasting intensifies the flavor and prevents a watery brownie.

How do I know when brownies are done?

The edges will look set and the center should have just a slight jiggle. A toothpick will show moist crumbs.

Final Bite

Roasted chocolate cherry brownies are the dessert you never knew you needed. With deep chocolate flavor, a chewy bite, and bursts of roasted fruit in every mouthful, this is no ordinary brownie. Whether you’re baking for a special event or your own midnight snack, these brownies bring restaurant-level indulgence right to your home kitchen.

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