If there’s one dessert that’s guaranteed to steal the show at any gathering, it’s a pan of Top view of cherry browies. Imagine fudgy, deeply chocolatey brownies bursting with jammy roasted cherries and studded with pockets of melty chocolate, all cut into gorgeous squares that beckon from the dessert table. This treat delivers the perfect bite: sweet, tart, rich, and decadent, with an irresistible visual that makes you want to reach for seconds. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, these brownies promise both a fun kitchen adventure and a sweet reward at the end.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about Top view of cherry browies is how simple and accessible the ingredients are. You probably have most of them in your pantry already. Every single item on the list brings its own character—cherries for a burst of tang, butter and oil for richness, and plenty of chocolate for pure joy. Let’s break it down:
- Cherries: Fresh, halved, and pitted cherries bring that signature tartness and vibrant color, making each bite extraordinary.
- Sugar (Sprinkle for Cherries): A light dusting coaxes extra juice and sweetness out of the cherries during roasting.
- White Granulated Sugar (1 1/3 cups): Provides the right amount of sweetness to balance the cocoa’s intensity.
- Large Eggs (2) + Egg Yolk (1): This combo creates that luxurious, chewy brownie texture we all crave.
- Unsalted Butter (5 TBSP, melted): Adds depth of flavor and brings richness to the batter.
- Oil (1/3 cup, canola or vegetable): Keeps the brownies extra moist and tender, even after a day or two.
- Pure Vanilla Extract (1 tsp): A splash of vanilla enhances both cherry and chocolate flavors—don’t skip it!
- All-Purpose Flour (3/4 cup): The perfect base to support all those luscious add-ins without making the brownies cakey.
- Dutch Process Cocoa Powder (3/4 cup): This cocoa gives a dreamy, deep chocolate flavor and a beautifully dark color.
- Cornstarch (1 TBSP): A little cornstarch helps the brownies stay soft and gives a smooth crumb.
- Salt (1 tsp): Always essential in dessert! It sharpens every other flavor.
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (1 cup): For those gooey, melty puddles of chocolate that make brownies irresistible.
How to Make Top view of cherry browies
Step 1: Roast the Cherries
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and scatter the halved cherries on top. Sprinkle them lightly with sugar—this will help the cherries caramelize and release their juices, intensifying their flavor. Bake them for about 10 minutes, just enough to soften and sweeten those ruby gems. Let them cool while you prep the rest.
Step 2: Prep Your Pan
Turn your oven down to 325°F. Grab an 8×8-inch baking pan and coat it well with non-stick spray. For easy removal and picture-perfect squares (think: Top view of cherry browies), line the bottom and two sides with parchment paper, then spray again.
Step 3: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients
Sift together the flour, Dutch process cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt in a bowl. Sifting is key to prevent lumps and ensures even distribution of all the “dry team” components—nobody wants a surprise bite of plain cocoa powder!
Step 4: Whip Sugar and Eggs
In a stand mixer with the whisk attachment (or by hand if you’re feeling strong!), beat the granulated sugar, eggs, and that extra yolk on high speed for 5 minutes. This step makes the brownies extra fudgy, giving your Top view of cherry browies their signature glossy tops and dense centers.
Step 5: Combine the Batter
While the eggs are whipping, melt your butter and let it cool slightly so it doesn’t scramble the batter. Pour the butter, oil, and vanilla into the egg mixture, mixing on low. Remove the bowl from the mixer. Gently fold the sifted dry ingredients in with a rubber spatula. Be tender with the batter—overmixing or rough stirring can knock out all that air you just worked so hard to whip in!
Step 6: Add Cherries and Chocolate Chips
Divide your roasted cherries in half. Fold one half into the brownie batter along with the chocolate chips, blending just until everything is distributed. Pour the mixture into your prepared pan and smooth the top.
Step 7: Bake the Brownies
Bake for 40 to 50 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges are set and the middle still has a subtle jiggle—don’t overbake! As soon as they come out, top the brownies with a few extra chocolate chips for bonus meltiness, then set aside to cool completely in the pan.
Step 8: Chill, Top, and Slice
For those truly immaculate Top view of cherry browies squares, freeze the cooled brownies in the pan for about 15 minutes. This quick chill firms them up, making it a breeze to lift, top with the remaining cherries, and cut into neat squares. Now’s the time to marvel at what you just made—each piece looks like it belongs in a bakery window.
How to Serve Top view of cherry browies
Garnishes
To make your Top view of cherry browies even more inviting, consider a few simple garnishes. Dust with powdered sugar for a snowy finish, drizzle on extra melted chocolate for drama, or drop a dollop of lightly whipped cream on top. Fresh cherries scattered over the brownies not only add vibrancy but also hint at what’s tucked inside.
Side Dishes
Pairing these brownies with something cool or creamy creates a perfect balance. A scoop of vanilla ice cream, a quenelle of chocolate mousse, or even a bowl of ripe, tart berries brings out both the chocolaty and fruity notes. If you’re serving a crowd, offer some strong coffee or a glass of milk alongside for an unbeatable combo.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not have fun with your Top view of cherry browies? Cut them into bite-sized pieces and stack them as a striking centerpiece, or serve on a beautiful platter with layers of extra roasted cherries and chocolate shavings. For special occasions, individual brownie squares topped with a glossy cherry and tiny mint leaf make a beautiful party dessert.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you manage to have leftovers, store your Top view of cherry browies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. The flavor just deepens and the texture stays deliciously fudgy, making them perfect for snacking or tucking into lunchboxes.
Freezing
These brownies freeze beautifully! To freeze, wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a sealable freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to two months and can be thawed in the fridge or at room temperature for “just-baked” goodness anytime you crave it.
Reheating
If you prefer your brownies a little warm (especially with ice cream!), a 10-second zap in the microwave will bring back that fresh-from-the-oven magic. If reheating from frozen, let them thaw first for best results.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cherries for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before roasting so you don’t introduce too much moisture into the brownie batter. The flavor remains spot-on, especially when cherries are out of season.
What’s the benefit of adding both butter and oil?
This combo gives you the best of both worlds: butter for flavor and richness, oil for a tender, moist crumb that keeps your Top view of cherry browies soft even days later.
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite 1:1 gluten-free blend. Double-check your cocoa powder and chocolate chips to ensure they’re gluten-free, and you’ll have brownies everyone can enjoy.
Why do I need to beat the eggs and sugar so long?
Whipping the eggs and sugar creates that beautifully shiny, crackly top and gives the brownies their wonderful chew, making the Top view of cherry browies visually appealing as well as tasty.
Can I double the recipe?
It’s easy to double—just use a 9×13-inch pan and keep a close eye on the bake time, which may be slightly longer. The method stays exactly the same, and you’ll have extra brownies to go around!
Final Thoughts
There’s something magical about a batch of Top view of cherry browies cooling on the counter, the aroma promising all that chocolate-cherry goodness in every bar. If you try one new bake this season, make it this one—you’ll impress your guests and satisfy your own cravings for something a little special. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share a photo of your very best top view of cherry browies!
