Cherry Almond Brownies Recipe

Introduction

Cherry Almond Brownies are the perfect fusion of rich, fudgy chocolate and the bright, refreshing flavor of cherries with a hint of nutty almond goodness. These decadent treats are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re indulging in a cozy evening at home, hosting a party, or looking for a sweet gift to share with loved ones. The dense, fudgy texture of the brownies is complemented by the sweet-tart cherries and the crunchy almond topping, creating a mouthwatering experience with every bite.

With just a few simple ingredients and a straightforward process, Cherry Almond Brownies are easy to make and incredibly satisfying. This recipe will walk you through each step, offer expert tips to ensure the best results, and suggest variations to add your personal touch to this indulgent dessert.

Why You’ll Love Cherry Almond Brownies

• Deliciously Rich and Fudgy: These brownies are dense, fudgy, and ultra-chocolatey, making them a perfect treat for any chocolate lover. The addition of cherries and almonds adds a refreshing twist and crunch.
• Perfect Balance of Flavors: The tartness of the cherries pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the brownies, while the almonds bring a nutty, slightly toasted flavor that elevates the overall taste.
• Visually Stunning: With the glossy, chocolatey surface and the pop of red from the cherries and the crunch of almonds on top, these brownies are as pleasing to the eye as they are to the palate.
• Simple and Quick to Make: Despite their sophisticated flavor profile, Cherry Almond Brownies are easy to whip up with just a few pantry staples. Whether you’re a novice baker or an expert, you’ll find this recipe simple and rewarding.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: These brownies are ideal for special occasions, holiday gatherings, or as an everyday treat. The combination of flavors is sophisticated enough for a celebration yet comforting enough for a casual snack.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
• Cooling Time: 30 minutes (or longer)
• Servings: Approximately 16 brownies
• Calories per Serving: Around 220-250 calories per brownie, depending on portion size and specific ingredients used.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 220-250 kcal
• Fat: 13-15g
• Carbohydrates: 25-30g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 18-22g

Ingredients

For the Brownies:

• 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks), melted
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and chopped (or ½ cup dried cherries if fresh isn’t available)
• ½ cup sliced almonds (plus extra for topping)
• ¾ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional for extra chocolate flavor)

For the Cherry-Almond Topping:

• ½ cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved
• 2 tablespoons sliced almonds
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional for a glossy finish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Brownie Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch square baking pan with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal of the brownies later. Set the pan aside.

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once the butter is melted, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in both the granulated sugar and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and combined.

Add the eggs, one at a time, stirring well after each addition. The eggs help bind the ingredients and give the brownies their signature fudgy texture. Stir in the vanilla extract for extra flavor.

2. Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. The cocoa powder is what gives the brownies their rich chocolate flavor, while the baking powder provides a slight lift to the texture.

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this could lead to tough brownies. The batter should be thick and smooth.

3. Add the Cherries and Almonds

Gently fold in the chopped cherries and sliced almonds, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. The cherries add a burst of fruity flavor, while the almonds provide crunch and nuttiness. If you’re adding chocolate chips, fold them in at this stage as well for an extra layer of chocolatey goodness.

4. Bake the Brownies

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly with a spatula. Tap the pan lightly on the counter to release any air bubbles trapped in the batter.

Bake the brownies in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter). Be careful not to overbake the brownies, as this can lead to a dry texture. The brownies should still be soft in the center when you take them out of the oven.

Once baked, allow the brownies to cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 30 minutes before cutting them into squares. If you prefer slightly gooier brownies, you can cool them for a shorter time.

5. Prepare the Cherry-Almond Topping

While the brownies are cooling, prepare the cherry-almond topping. In a small saucepan, combine the halved cherries and sliced almonds. Heat the mixture over low heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cherries should begin to release their juices, and the almonds will lightly toast.

For a glossy finish, drizzle the honey over the cherries and almonds while they’re still warm. This will help the topping shine and add a subtle sweetness to balance the tartness of the cherries.

Once the topping is ready, set it aside to cool slightly.

6. Assemble the Brownies

Once the brownies are fully cooled, spread the cherry-almond topping evenly over the surface of the brownies. You can use a spoon to gently arrange the cherries and almonds in a decorative pattern, or simply pile them on top for a more rustic look.

Cut the brownies into 16 squares and serve. Enjoy the combination of fudgy brownie, tart cherries, and crunchy almonds with every bite!

Tips for Perfect Cherry Almond Brownies

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs are at room temperature before adding them to the batter. This helps create a smoother mixture and better texture.
• Don’t Overmix: When adding the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can result in dense, tough brownies.
• Be Careful Not to Overbake: The key to perfect brownies is to slightly underbake them. The brownies will continue cooking as they cool, so take them out of the oven when the center is still a bit soft. You can always bake them a bit longer if needed.
• Use Fresh Cherries When Possible: Fresh cherries will give the brownies the best flavor, but if they’re out of season, frozen or dried cherries can also work well. Just be sure to adjust the baking time if using dried cherries, as they require less moisture.
• Customize the Nuts: If you’re not a fan of almonds, you can substitute them with other nuts, such as walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts, for a different flavor profile.

Variations of Cherry Almond Brownies

• Chocolate-Covered Cherry Brownies: For an extra indulgent twist, top the brownies with chocolate-covered cherries. After the brownies have cooled, drizzle melted chocolate over the cherry-almond topping for a glossy, chocolaty finish.
• Cherry Coconut Brownies: Add shredded coconut to the brownie batter for a tropical twist. The coconut pairs beautifully with the cherries and adds a chewy texture.
• Cherry Cheesecake Brownies: Swirl a cheesecake filling into the brownie batter for a rich, creamy layer that contrasts with the fudgy chocolate brownie and tart cherries. To make the cheesecake filling, combine cream cheese, sugar, and egg, then swirl into the brownie batter before baking.
• Cherry Jam Brownies: If fresh cherries are hard to find, use a high-quality cherry jam or preserves. Swirl the jam into the brownie batter for a quick and flavorful cherry fix.

Storage and Shelf Life

Cherry Almond Brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4-5 days. Make sure they are fully cooled before storing to prevent them from becoming soggy.

For longer storage, you can freeze the brownies. Wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen brownies can be stored for up to 2-3 months. To thaw, simply let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to 1 hour before serving.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Cherry Almond Brownies

Pair these rich brownies with complementary flavors to create the perfect dessert experience:

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The cold, creamy vanilla ice cream contrasts perfectly with the rich chocolate and tart cherries in the brownies.
• Coffee or Espresso: A strong cup of coffee or espresso pairs beautifully with these brownies, enhancing the deep chocolate flavor.
• Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy whipped cream balances the richness of the brownies and adds a delicate touch.
• Fresh Fruit: A refreshing fruit salad, such as berries or citrus, offers a bright contrast to the chocolatey richness of the brownies.

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Conclusion

Cherry Almond Brownies are a delicious and indulgent dessert that brings together the perfect balance of chocolate, cherries, and almonds. With their fudgy texture, beautiful presentation, and unique flavor combination, these brownies will be a hit at any gathering or as a special treat for yourself. Whether you follow the recipe as is or experiment with different variations, these brownies are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Enjoy every bite of this irresistible treat!