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Decadent Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownies Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 64 reviews

Decadent Chocolate Covered Cherry Brownies combine rich, fudgy chocolate brownies with a luscious cherry buttercream and a smooth chocolate ganache topping. This irresistible dessert features the classic pairing of chocolate and cherries, elevated with a creamy almond-infused buttercream and finished with a shiny chocolate glaze. Perfect for celebrations or an indulgent treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Brownie Batter

  • 1 cup Sugar
  • 1/2 cup Butter (or margarine for dairy-free option)
  • 1/4 cup Water
  • 2 large Eggs (egg replacements can be used if needed)
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (use pure vanilla for best flavor)
  • 1 cup All-purpose Flour (substitute with gluten-free blend if necessary)
  • 1/3 cup Baking Cocoa (Dutch-processed cocoa for richer taste)
  • 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (omit for dense brownies)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt (kosher salt is an alternative)
  • 1 cup Chocolate Chips (dark or white chocolate can also be used)

Cherry Buttercream

  • 1 cup Maraschino Cherries (can substitute with fresh or frozen cherries, chopped)
  • 2 cups Powdered Sugar (coconut sugar as a less sweet alternative)
  • 1/4 cup Half-and-Half or Milk (dairy-free alternatives can be used)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Almond Extract (can replace with vanilla extract)
  • 2 tablespoons Butter (plant-based butter can maintain vegan aspect)
  • Reserved cherry juice (from maraschino cherries)

Chocolate Ganache

  • 1 cup Chocolate Chips (high-quality chocolate recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons Butter (plant-based butter optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 13 x 9 inch baking pan with aluminum foil and lightly spray it with cooking spray to ensure easy removal of the brownies.
  2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the sugar, melted butter, and water, stirring until smooth and fully blended. Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract until the mixture is light and well-combined.
  3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking cocoa, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening and cocoa powder.
  4. Form Brownie Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently to combine but not overmix. Fold in the chocolate chips evenly throughout the batter.
  5. Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and let cool completely in the pan.
  6. Make Cherry Buttercream: In a mixing bowl, beat together the butter, powdered sugar, half-and-half or milk, reserved cherry juice from maraschino cherries, and almond extract until smooth and creamy. Fold in the chopped maraschino cherries carefully to distribute evenly.
  7. Apply Buttercream: Spread the cherry buttercream evenly over the cooled brownie layer. Refrigerate the pan for about 30 minutes to allow the buttercream to set firmly.
  8. Prepare Chocolate Ganache: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and butter together in short bursts, stirring every 20 seconds until smooth and glossy. Be careful not to overheat or burn the chocolate.
  9. Finish with Ganache: Pour the ganache over the chilled buttercream layer, spreading it evenly to cover completely. Let it set at room temperature or refrigerate for 15-20 minutes until firm.
  10. Serve: Once the ganache has set, remove the brownies from the pan using the foil lining, cut into squares, and serve. Enjoy your decadent chocolate covered cherry brownies!

Notes

  • For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with margarine or plant-based butter and use a non-dairy milk alternative for half-and-half.
  • To keep the brownies gluten-free, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour.
  • You can substitute maraschino cherries with fresh or frozen cherries, but adjust the added sugar accordingly.
  • If you prefer denser brownies, omit the baking powder.
  • Reserve the juice from the maraschino cherries to add flavor and moisture to the buttercream.
  • Be cautious when melting the ganache chocolate in the microwave – stir frequently to prevent scorching.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container refrigerated for up to 4 days for best freshness.

Keywords: chocolate brownies, cherry brownies, chocolate cherry dessert, chocolate ganache, cherry buttercream, decadent brownies, holiday dessert

Find it online: https://cookwithyana.com/decadent-chocolate-covered-cherry-brownies-recipe-2/