Indulge in the perfect dessert: Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownies. These rich, fudgy treats combine smooth chocolate with sweet cherries. Trust me, each bite is pure bliss! This post will guide you through the simple steps to create these irresistible brownies. Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, you’ll find helpful tips and tricks. Let’s dive into the deliciousness and whip up a batch that everyone will love!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Decadent Flavor: The combination of rich chocolate brownies with tart cherries creates a perfect balance of flavors that is simply irresistible.
- Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and quick, making it a great choice for both beginner and seasoned bakers.
- Impressive Presentation: The glossy chocolate ganache and cherry topping make these brownies look as good as they taste, perfect for special occasions.
- Great for Sharing: With 20 generous squares, these brownies are perfect for parties, potlucks, or simply sharing with friends and family.
Ingredients
Full List of Ingredients
– 1 cup unsalted butter
– 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 milk chocolate chips
– 1 cup maraschino cherries (drained and halved)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 8 ounces dark chocolate (chopped)
To make these chocolate covered cherry brownies, gather all your ingredients. Start with unsalted butter. It gives the best flavor. Granulated sugar adds sweetness to the mix. You need four large eggs for richness. A little vanilla extract brings out the taste of chocolate.
Next, you have the dry ingredients. All-purpose flour makes the brownies soft. Unsweetened cocoa powder gives a strong chocolate flavor. Baking powder helps the brownies rise. A bit of salt balances the sweetness.
Now for the fun part! Milk chocolate chips add creaminess and sweetness. Maraschino cherries bring a juicy pop of flavor. Make sure to drain and halve them so they mix in well.
Lastly, we need heavy cream and dark chocolate for the ganache. The cream creates a smooth texture, while dark chocolate adds depth. This rich topping makes the brownies feel special.
With these ingredients ready, you’re set to create a delicious treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
Preheating the Oven and Preparing the Baking Pan
First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This helps the brownies bake evenly. Next, grab a 9×13-inch baking pan. Grease it lightly and line it with parchment paper. Leave some paper hanging over the edges. This makes it easy to lift out the brownies later.
Melting Butter and Mixing Wet Ingredients
Now, take a large saucepan. Add 1 cup of unsalted butter and melt it on medium heat. Once melted, remove the pan from the heat. Stir in 2 cups of granulated sugar until it blends well. Then, add 4 large eggs, one by one. Mix well after each egg. Finally, pour in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to add flavor.
Incorporating Dry Ingredients and Chocolate Chips
In a separate bowl, mix 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. Whisk these dry ingredients well. Now, fold the dry mix into the wet mix slowly. Be careful not to overmix. Gently add in 1 cup of milk chocolate chips and 1 cup of halved maraschino cherries, but save a few cherries for later.
Baking Process
Pouring Batter into the Pan
Carefully pour the brownie batter into your prepared pan. Use a spatula to spread the batter evenly. This ensures even baking and a nice texture.
Baking Time and Tips for Checking Doneness
Place the pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes. To check if they are done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they are ready. If it comes out wet, give it a few more minutes.
Making the Chocolate Ganache
Heating the Heavy Cream
While the brownies bake, take a small saucepan. Pour in 1/2 cup of heavy cream and heat it over medium heat. Watch it closely until it just starts to simmer. This is key for a smooth ganache.
Combining Cream with Dark Chocolate
Next, place 8 ounces of chopped dark chocolate in a bowl. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for a minute. This helps the chocolate melt. Stir until the mixture is smooth and silky. This ganache will make the brownies rich and decadent.
Tips & Tricks
For Perfect Brownies
How to Avoid Overmixing the Batter
Overmixing can make brownies tough. Mix just until the dry ingredients blend in. Use a spatula to fold gently, so you keep the batter light and fluffy. Remember, a few lumps are okay!
Ensuring Even Baking
To ensure even baking, spread the batter evenly in the pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top. Bake in the center of the oven for the best heat distribution. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick. It should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
Best Practices for Chocolate Ganache
Tips for Smooth Ganache Consistency
To make a smooth ganache, heat the cream until it simmers, but do not boil it. Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate and let it sit. This helps the chocolate melt evenly. Stir gently until it’s silky and smooth.
How to Add Flavor Variations
You can add flavor to your ganache easily. Try a splash of vanilla extract or a bit of almond extract. For a fun twist, mix in a bit of espresso powder or orange zest for added depth. Experiment with what you like!
Pro Tips
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow the eggs and butter to come to room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and ensures even baking.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense brownies instead of a fudgy texture.
- Check for Doneness Early: Start checking the brownies a few minutes before the suggested baking time to avoid overbaking. They should have a few moist crumbs when tested.
- Let the Ganache Cool Slightly: Allow the chocolate ganache to cool for a few minutes before pouring it over the brownies for a smoother finish and to prevent it from melting the brownies.
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
Using coconut oil instead of butter is a great choice. Coconut oil gives a hint of tropical flavor. It also keeps your brownies moist and rich. Just use the same amount as the butter in the recipe.
Alternative sweeteners can help if you want a healthier treat. You can try using honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar. These sweeteners add unique flavors and can make your brownies a bit softer.
Flavor Enhancements
Adding nuts or other fruits can change the taste and texture. Chopped walnuts or pecans bring crunch and depth. You can also mix in dried fruits like cranberries or blueberries for a fruity twist.
Infusing the ganache with liqueurs adds a special touch. Try using cherry liqueur or orange liqueur for exciting flavors. Just add a tablespoon to the hot cream before combining it with the chocolate. This will make your brownies even more delicious!
Storage Info
Best Ways to Store Brownies
– Room Temperature Storage
You can keep your brownies at room temperature. Place them in an airtight container. They stay fresh for about three days. If you want them to last longer, try refrigerating.
– Refrigerating or Freezing for Long-Term Use
For longer storage, wrap the brownies tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer bag. They can stay good for up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, just thaw them in the fridge overnight.
How to Reheat Leftover Brownies
– Best Methods for Reheating
To reheat brownies, use the microwave. Heat them in short bursts of 10 to 15 seconds. This helps keep them warm without cooking them further. You can also use the oven. Set it to 350°F and warm them for about 10 minutes.
– Avoiding Dryness When Reheating
To keep your brownies moist, cover them with a damp paper towel in the microwave. This adds steam and helps prevent dryness. If using the oven, place a small dish of water inside. This also adds moisture to the brownies.
FAQs
Common Questions About Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownies
Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these brownies a day or two in advance. Just store them in an airtight container. They taste even better after a day as the flavors blend.
What can I use instead of maraschino cherries?
If you want a change, try fresh cherries or dried cherries. You can also use raspberries for a new twist. Each option adds a different flavor.
How long do these brownies last?
These brownies can last about 4 to 5 days at room temperature. If you store them in the fridge, they can last up to a week.
Troubleshooting
What to do if brownies turn out dry?
If your brownies are dry, they may have baked too long. You can add a scoop of ice cream on top for extra moisture.
How to fix a runny ganache?
If your ganache is runny, try cooling it in the fridge for a bit. Stir it gently until it thickens. If it’s still runny, add more chopped chocolate.
Why are my brownies not fudgy?
Brownies can turn out cakey if you overmix the batter. Mix just until combined for a fudgy texture. Also, check your oven temperature; it should be accurate for best results.
You’ve learned how to create delicious chocolate-covered cherry brownies. We covered the key ingredients, from butter to cherries, and the steps to bake them perfectly. We also explored tips for a smooth ganache and ways to store leftovers. Don’t forget the fun variations to make these brownies your own. Enjoy making this treat, and remember, practice makes perfect! Happy bakin
