Description
Indulge in these decadent Chocolate Cherry Brownies, a luscious treat combining rich cocoa, melt-in-your-mouth butter, and a vibrant cherry filling. This recipe layers creamy brownie batter with a sweet-tart cherry compote for a delightful twist on classic brownies, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Brownie Batter
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)
Cherry Filling
- 1 1/2 cups fresh cherries, pitted and chopped
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Toppings
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Extra cherries for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Cherry Filling: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the chopped cherries, sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Stir constantly until the mixture thickens into a compote. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Batter: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan. In a mixing bowl, beat the melted butter with sugar until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time along with vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly after each addition. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder; gradually mix these dry ingredients into the wet ingredients. Stir in semi-sweet chocolate chips if using.
- Layer the Brownies: Pour approximately two-thirds of the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Spoon the cooled cherry filling over this layer, spreading gently. Dollop the remaining batter on top and spread gently to allow some cherry filling to peek through.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs but is not wet with batter. Remove from oven and allow brownies to cool completely in the pan.
- Serve: Once cooled, dust the brownies with powdered sugar and garnish with extra cherries. Slice and serve these rich, flavorful brownies for a perfect dessert or snack.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh, ripe cherries to get a vibrant flavor in the cherry filling.
- The optional chocolate chips add extra melty chocolate bursts but can be omitted if preferred.
- Check brownies around 35 minutes to avoid over-baking; moist crumbs on the toothpick indicate perfect doneness.
- Allow brownies to cool completely before cutting to achieve clean slices.
- Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate to prolong freshness.
