Experience the rich and decadent flavors of these Dark Chocolate Cherry & Espresso Brownies. This recipe begins by roasting sweet red cherries dusted with caster sugar, enhancing their natural sweetness and adding a caramelized depth. The batter is a luxurious blend of semi-sweet chocolate chips, canola oil, and a mix of granulated and dark brown sugars, which create a perfect balance of sweetness and moisture. The addition of espresso powder intensifies the chocolate flavor, while the Dutch-processed cocoa powder and a touch of kosher salt provide a rich, dark undertone. Once the roasted cherries are gently folded into the batter, the brownies are baked to perfection, resulting in a fudgy, chocolatey treat. Topped with the remaining roasted cherries, these brownies offer a delightful contrast of textures and flavors, making them an irresistible dessert for any chocolate lover.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups of Joyfully Grown™ sweet red cherries
  • 4 tsp caster sugar (for dusting the cherries)
  • 1 1/4 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (divided)
  • 3/4 cup canola oil
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2/3 cup dark brown sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup Dutch-processed cocoa powder
  • 1 tbsp espresso powder
  • 1 tsp kosher salt

Instructions:

  1. Preheat and Prepare Cherries:
    • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
    • Place the cherries on a lined baking sheet and dust them with the caster sugar.
    • Roast the cherries in the oven for 15-20 minutes until they are tender and slightly caramelized.
    • Remove from the oven and let them cool. Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C).

  2. Prepare the Brownie Batter:
    • In a microwave-safe bowl, combine half of the semi-sweet chocolate chips and canola oil. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the chocolate is melted and smooth.
    • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, dark brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined and slightly frothy.
    • Slowly add the melted chocolate mixture to the sugar-egg mixture, whisking constantly to incorporate.
    • In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, Dutch-processed cocoa powder, espresso powder, and kosher salt.
    • Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
    • Gently fold the remaining semi-sweet chocolate chips into the batter.

  3. Incorporate Cherries:
    • Divide the roasted cherries into two equal parts.
    • Gently fold half of the roasted cherries into the brownie batter.
  4. Bake the Brownies:
    • Pour the batter into a greased or parchment-lined 9×13 inch baking pan, spreading it evenly.
    • Bake in the preheated oven (now set to 350°F) for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
  5. Finish and Serve:
    • Once the brownies are done baking, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan on a wire rack.
    • After cooling, sprinkle the remaining roasted cherries over the top of the brownies.
  6. Enjoy:
    • Cut into squares and serve. These brownies are delicious on their own or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Recipe by Valerie Musser of @whosagoodlizard