Cherry Brownies

Cherry Brownies Recipe - Delicious and Easy to Make

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 30-40 minutes | Servings: 36 squares

Introduction

Cherry brownies are a delightful twist on the classic chocolate brownie, adding a burst of sweet and tangy flavor from maraschino cherries. The combination of rich chocolate, creamy cream cheese, and juicy cherries creates a decadent treat that is perfect for any occasion.

History

The exact origins of cherry brownies are unclear, but they are believed to have originated in the United States as a variation of traditional chocolate brownies. The addition of maraschino cherries adds a unique flavor and texture to the classic dessert, making it a popular choice for those looking for a sweet and fruity treat.

Ingredients

Base

2 eggs
1 cup (2.4 dcl) granulated sugar
6 tbsp margarine
0.25 cup (0.6 dcl) baking cocoa
0.75 cup (1.8 dcl) flour
0.25 tsp salt

Topping

4 oz (110 g) softened cream cheese
0.25 cup (0.6 dcl) maraschino cherry syrup
0.25 cup (0.6 dcl) icing sugar
1 egg
0.5 cup (1.2 dcl) semi-sweet chocolate chips
0.5 cup (1.2 dcl) maraschino cherries

How to prepare

Melt margarine in a saucepan over medium-low heat, then mix in the cocoa.
Add the sugar, salt, and first two eggs, blend well, and then fold in the flour.
Spread the mixture in a greased 9" by 9" (22 cm by 22 cm) cake pan and set it aside.
In a bowl, beat the cream cheese, cherry syrup, and icing sugar together until creamy.
Add the remaining egg to the mixture and blend well.
Stir in the chocolate chips and cherries.
Pour the second mixture over the base.
Bake at 350°F/175°C for 30 to 40 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out moist (but not wet with batter).
Allow it to cool and then cut into 36 squares.

Variations

Substitute the maraschino cherries with fresh or frozen cherries for a more natural flavor.
Add chopped nuts or coconut flakes to the topping for added texture and flavor.
Drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the brownies for an extra decadent touch.

Notes

Cool for at least 10 minutes before cutting and eating or you will have hot broken brownies everywhere.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use softened cream cheese for the topping to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.

- Drain the maraschino cherries well before adding them to the topping to prevent excess moisture.

- Allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting them into squares to ensure clean and neat slices.

Serving Suggestions

Cherry brownies can be served on their own as a delicious dessert or snack, or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to mix the brownie batter until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can result in a tough texture.

- Use a toothpick to test the doneness of the brownies, as they should come out moist but not wet with batter.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use butter instead of margarine for a richer flavor.

- Substitute the semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate chips for a more intense chocolate flavor.

- Use almond or coconut flour for a gluten-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

Cherry brownies can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the cherry brownies on a platter and garnish with fresh cherries or a dusting of powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation. Serve them on colorful dessert plates for a festive touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Cherry brownies pair well with a glass of milk, a cup of coffee, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert option. They can also be served alongside fresh fruit for a light and refreshing accompaniment.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover cherry brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, simply microwave individual servings for 10-15 seconds or until warm.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of cherry brownies contains approximately 200 calories, making them a deliciously decadent treat that can be enjoyed in moderation.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of cherry brownies contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates, making them a sweet and satisfying treat for those looking for a dessert option with a moderate amount of carbs.

Fats

With the inclusion of margarine, cream cheese, and chocolate chips, cherry brownies are a rich and indulgent dessert option that contains approximately 12 grams of fat per serving.

Proteins

Each serving of cherry brownies contains approximately 3 grams of protein, making them a satisfying and filling treat that can be enjoyed as a snack or dessert option.

Vitamins and minerals

Cherry brownies are not a significant source of essential vitamins and minerals, but they do contain small amounts of calcium, iron, and vitamin A.

Alergens

Cherry brownies contain eggs, dairy (cream cheese), and wheat (flour), making them unsuitable for those with allergies to these ingredients.

Summary

Cherry brownies are a sweet and indulgent dessert option that is rich in carbohydrates and fats, with a moderate amount of protein. They are best enjoyed in moderation as a special treat.

Summary

Cherry brownies are a delightful and indulgent dessert option that combines rich chocolate, creamy cream cheese, and juicy cherries for a sweet and tangy treat. With a few simple ingredients and easy preparation, these brownies are sure to become a favorite for any occasion. Enjoy them on their own or paired with a scoop of ice cream for a truly decadent dessert experience.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was tucked away in an old cookbook that I stumbled upon at a quaint little thrift store in town. The pages were yellowed and the binding was barely holding on, but the words on the page were clear as day: Cherry Brownies.

I had always been a lover of all things chocolate, and the idea of adding cherries to the mix intrigued me. I knew I had to try it. As I read through the ingredients and instructions, memories flooded back to me of all the times I had spent in the kitchen with my own grandmother, watching her whip up delicious treats for our family.

I decided to give the recipe a go, and I gathered all the necessary ingredients. I could almost hear my grandmother's voice guiding me as I mixed the batter and folded in the cherries. The smell of chocolate wafted through the kitchen as the brownies baked in the oven, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished product.

When they finally emerged from the oven, I knew I had struck gold. The brownies were rich and fudgy, with bursts of sweet cherry in every bite. I couldn't believe how well the flavors melded together, and I knew right then and there that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen.

Over the years, I have made these Cherry Brownies countless times, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my own tastes. I have shared them with friends and family, who always rave about how delicious they are. And every time I make them, I am reminded of that first time I discovered the recipe and the joy it brought me.

I have come to realize that recipes are more than just instructions for cooking; they are a connection to the past, a way to keep memories alive. Each time I make these Cherry Brownies, I am transported back to that moment in the kitchen with my grandmother, learning from her and soaking up her wisdom. It is a beautiful reminder of the bond we shared and the love we had for each other.

As I write down the recipe for these Cherry Brownies, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for all the knowledge and joy that cooking has brought me over the years. It is a gift that has been passed down through generations, and one that I cherish with all my heart.

So here it is, my cherished recipe for Cherry Brownies, a delicious treat that never fails to bring a smile to my face and warmth to my heart. I hope that you will enjoy making them as much as I have, and that they will become a special tradition in your own kitchen, just as they have in mine. Happy baking!