Ingredients for Cherry Chocolate Chip Brownies
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup chopped maraschino cherries (drained and patted dry)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until well combined.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract, and whisk until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
Step 3: Add the Mix-Ins
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips and chopped maraschino cherries.
- Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the texture of your brownies.
Step 4: Bake the Brownies
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Remove from the oven and let the brownies cool completely in the pan.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Once cooled, lift the brownies out of the pan using the parchment paper.
- Slice into squares and serve. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate for extra flair.
Tips for the Best Cherry Chocolate Chip Brownies
- Use Fresh Cherries: If maraschino cherries aren’t your preference, substitute with fresh or frozen cherries (pitted and chopped).
- Don’t Overbake: Check the brownies early to avoid overbaking, as this will ensure they remain fudgy.
- Experiment with Flavors: Add a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor.
- Serve Warm: Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
Try them today and let us know how they turned out in the comments below. Happy baking!
