Indulge in the perfect combination of rich chocolate and tart cherries with these homemade chocolate cherry brownies. Topped with smooth vanilla bean buttercream and a fresh cherry sauce, these decadent treats bring together the flavors of a Black Forest cake in brownie form. Ideal for potlucks, parties, or any special occasion, these brownies are as impressive as they are easy to make.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These chocolate cherry brownies offer a bakery-quality dessert experience right at home. The combination of chewy brownies, sweet cherries, and a chocolatey depth is always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you're making these for a holiday party or just as a treat for yourself, the result is a stunning dessert that's incredibly easy to prepare. Even with the multiple steps involved, you can always substitute for a quicker version using boxed brownie mix and store-bought ingredients.

Ingredients

Unsalted butter
Vegetable oil (or mild oil like canola or avocado oil)
Granulated white sugar
Light brown sugar
Pure vanilla extract
Eggs
Unsweetened cocoa powder
All-purpose flour
Salt
Instant espresso powder (optional but recommended)
Chopped dark chocolate (or chocolate chips)
Fresh cherries (or frozen, thawed and dried)

Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x9-inch baking pan or line with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, vegetable oil, sugars, and vanilla extract.
Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Stir in the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and espresso powder until just combined.
Fold in the chopped dark chocolate and fresh cherries.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs.
Let the brownies cool completely before topping with vanilla bean buttercream and cherry sauce.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12-16 brownies
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 50-55 minutes

Variations

Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
Vegan: Substitute eggs with flax eggs and use a plant-based butter alternative.
Dairy-free: Opt for dairy-free butter and chocolate to make this recipe fully dairy-free.
Other fruits: Try using raspberries or strawberries if cherries aren't in season.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Keep brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week.
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, microwave brownies for 10-15 seconds or warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cherries for this recipe?

Yes, frozen cherries work perfectly! Just thaw, drain, and pat dry before adding to the batter.

Can I make the cherry sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cherry sauce a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator.

How do I know when the brownies are done?

Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, the brownies are done.

Can I freeze these brownies?

Yes, brownies freeze well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

What can I use instead of vanilla bean buttercream?

You can substitute with regular buttercream or whipped cream for a lighter topping.

Can I make this recipe without the buttercream topping?

Absolutely! The brownies are delicious on their own without the buttercream if you prefer a simpler treat.

How long should I cool the brownies before cutting them?

Let the brownies cool completely before cutting to ensure they hold their shape.

Is the espresso powder necessary?

It’s optional, but it enhances the chocolate flavor. You won’t taste coffee, but the depth it adds to the brownies is worth it!

Can I add nuts to the brownies?

Yes, feel free to fold in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture.

Can I use a boxed brownie mix instead?

Yes, you can use a boxed mix as a shortcut. Just add the chopped chocolate and cherries as the recipe suggests.

Conclusion

These chocolate cherry brownies are a decadent treat that combines the best of both worlds: rich, fudgy brownies with the sweet-tart contrast of fresh cherries. The added vanilla bean buttercream and cherry sauce elevate these brownies into something truly special, perfect for any occasion. Whether you're baking them for a crowd or enjoying them on your own, these brownies are sure to impress!

Chocolate Cherry Brownies

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Author: Emmily
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 12-16 brownies
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

These indulgent Chocolate Cherry Brownies offer a perfect blend of rich chocolate and tart cherries, topped with creamy vanilla bean buttercream and a fresh cherry sauce. A dessert reminiscent of Black Forest cake but in brownie form, ideal for potlucks, parties, or any special occasion. Whether homemade or with shortcuts using boxed mix, these brownies are guaranteed to wow guests with their deep flavor and perfect texture.

Instructions

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, vegetable oil, sugars, and vanilla extract.
Beat in eggs, one at a time, ensuring well-combined after each addition.
Stir in cocoa powder, flour, salt, and optional espresso powder until just combined.
Gently fold in chopped dark chocolate and cherries.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs.
Let cool completely before topping with vanilla bean buttercream and cherry sauce.

Notes

Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
Flax eggs and plant-based butter can make this recipe vegan.
Opt for dairy-free butter and chocolate to make it dairy-free.
Try using raspberries or strawberries instead of cherries for a different fruity twist.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American