Sink your teeth into the most unforgettable squares of chocolate decadence with these Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies. Deep, dark chocolate meets bursts of juicy, caramelized cherries, each bite perfectly balanced between rich fudgy bliss and tangy fruit sweetness. Whether you’re treating yourself on a cozy evening or sharing with friends at a celebration, these brownies are a revelation for cherry and chocolate lovers alike.

Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the secret to turning these Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies into pure magic. Each component plays a starring role in shaping the flavor, texture, and appearance, making every bite a harmonious medley of chocolate richness and cherry brightness.

Cherries: Fresh, pitted, and halved cherries give juicy pops and a luxurious tang that pairs beautifully with the chocolate.
Sprinkle of sugar: Just a touch caramelizes the cherries as they roast, bringing out their natural sweetness.
White granulated sugar: Ensures the brownies are perfectly sweet and helps create that irresistible crinkly top.
Large eggs & egg yolk: Add richness, structure, and a chewy, fudgy bite.
Unsalted butter: Melted butter infuses the brownies with deep flavor and a velvety texture.
Oil (canola or vegetable): Keeps things deliciously moist and prevents dryness.
Pure vanilla extract: Enhances all the other flavors and gives these brownies warmth and depth.
All-purpose flour: The right amount for structure without sacrificing that classic gooey center.
Dutch process cocoa powder: Delivers a dark, sophisticated chocolate note and that signature brownie darkness.
Cornstarch: The secret to extra tenderness—don’t skip it!
Salt: A must for balancing the chocolate and heightening every flavor.
Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melt into pockets of chocolate throughout each bar, offering extra bursts of flavor.

How to Make Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

Step 1: Roast the Cherries

Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scatter your halved, pitted cherries across the parchment, then sprinkle them with a little sugar. Pop them into the oven for about 10 minutes—just enough so they become tender and their juices start caramelizing. This roasting step unlocks their ruby-red hue and amplifies their tart-sweet character. Let them cool completely so they don’t melt the batter later.

Step 2: Prep Your Baking Pan

Turn down your oven to 325°F, then grab an 8×8-inch baking pan. Spray it generously with nonstick spray, and line the bottom and two sides with parchment paper for easy brownie removal. A second spritz of baking spray on the parchment ensures nothing sticks behind.

Step 3: Sift and Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, Dutch process cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt. This step isn’t just about avoiding lumps—it’s the secret to a smoother, more even brownie batter and that silky final crumb.

Step 4: Whip Eggs and Sugar

In a stand mixer with a whisk attachment (or using a hand mixer), whip the granulated sugar, eggs, and egg yolk on high speed for 5 full minutes. The mixture should puff up and take on a pale, creamy appearance. This incorporates air, giving your brownies a perfect chewy-yet-light texture and shiny top crust. While this is going, melt your butter and let it sit until it’s just warm—not piping hot.

Step 5: Create the Batter

With your mixer on low, pour in the cooled melted butter, oil, and vanilla extract, letting them blend in gently. Remove the bowl from the mixer and add your sifted dry ingredients. Use a rubber spatula and a delicate hand to fold everything together just until combined. Gentle mixing keeps the batter light—don’t rush!

Step 6: Add Cherries and Chocolate Chips

Take half of your roasted cherries and fold them into the batter, followed by all the chocolate chips. The cherries infuse pockets of fruit into the mix, while the chips promise melty, chocolatey surprises in every slice.

Step 7: Bake and Finish

Spread the brownie batter evenly in your prepared pan, making sure there are no air pockets. Bake for 40 to 50 minutes. The edges should look set, but the middle will still be a little jiggly—that’s how you get the fudgy interior every brownie lover adores. As soon as they’re out, top with a handful of extra chocolate chips for a glossy finish. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan, then pop them in the freezer for 15 minutes. This makes them easy to cut and extra fudgy. Top with the remaining roasted cherries, slice, and serve for brownie perfection!

How to Serve Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies

Garnishes

For an irresistible look and taste, pile the brownies with the leftover roasted cherries just before serving. You can also dust them lightly with powdered sugar, or shave a little dark chocolate over the top for a sophisticated touch. If you love a pop of color, a sprinkle of fresh mint or a few extra whole cherries will make your platter absolutely show-stopping.

Side Dishes

Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies are fantastic on their own, but pairing them with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream is next-level heaven—we’re talking classic diner dessert meets gourmet bakery. For something refreshing, try a dollop of whipped cream or a spoonful of tangy Greek yogurt. A side of fresh berries can also lighten up the richness, offering a beautiful contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to really impress, cut the brownies into bite-sized squares for a party platter, or serve warm with a pour of cherry sauce for a decadent plated dessert. Another fun idea is to layer cubes of brownies, roasted cherries, and whipped cream in pretty glasses for mini trifle parfaits—showy, easy, and utterly delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Their texture actually gets even fudgier as they sit, making each slice more delicious by the day. If your kitchen is especially warm, move them to the refrigerator to keep the cherries tasting fresh.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This keeps them tasting just-baked for up to 2 months. Let them thaw at room temperature, or warm one up whenever that chocolate-cherry craving hits!

Reheating

To bring back that just-baked warmth, microwave a brownie square for about 10-15 seconds—just until the chocolate chips soften and the center is gooey again. You can also reheat in a 300°F oven for a few minutes if serving a crowd. Don’t forget to add more roasted cherries right before serving for the freshest flavor.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?

Absolutely! If cherries aren’t in season, frozen (and thawed) cherries work well, though they may release a bit more juice when roasting. Drain any excess liquid before adding them to the batter for best results.

How do I know when my brownies are done?

Bake until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. The center should not be completely dry—underdone is better than overbaked for that perfect fudgy middle!

Can I double this recipe for a crowd?

Yes, simply double all the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Watch the baking time—it may be slightly longer, so keep an eye on the edges and check with a toothpick.

What’s the best way to cut brownies cleanly?

Chill the brownies briefly in the freezer after they cool to room temperature, then use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts. The results: neat, picture-perfect squares every time.

Are there any nut-free or gluten-free adaptations?

These Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies are nut-free as written, and you can substitute a cup-for-cup gluten-free baking flour blend if you wish. Just note the texture may be slightly different, but just as delicious!

Final Thoughts

There’s truly nothing quite like the combo of roasted cherries and rich chocolate in homemade Roasted Chocolate Cherry Brownies. Whether you’re new to baking or already a brownie aficionado, this recipe is destined to win hearts and satisfy every sweet tooth. Give it a try—these brownies might just become your new go-to treat!