Introduction to Fudgy Cherry Brownies Ganache
Let me take you on a delightful journey with these Fudgy Cherry Brownies Ganache! Imagine diving into a world of rich, chocolatey goodness, as every bite brings a burst of sweet cherries. These brownies are not just a treat; they’re the perfect antidote for a long day. Whether you need a quick pick-me-up during the week or a showstopper for your family gathering, this recipe has you covered. It’s simple, satisfying, and sure to impress. It’s like a warm hug on a plate, ready to brighten your day!
Why You’ll Love This Fudgy Cherry Brownies Ganache
This recipe is a dream come true for busy parents and professionals! It’s quick to whip up, taking just 45 minutes from start to finish. The rich, fudgy texture paired with the zing of cherries creates a decadent treat that everyone will adore. Plus, there’s something incredibly satisfying about baking brownies that fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas. It’s an effortless way to make your loved ones feel special!
Ingredients for Fudgy Cherry Brownies Ganache
Gathered here are all the delightful ingredients that make up these Fudgy Cherry Brownies Ganache! Each one plays a key role in crafting this luxurious dessert. Here’s a look!
- Unsalted Butter: This adds richness and creates that fudgy, moist texture.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the brownies, balancing the cocoa’s bitterness.
- Eggs: Essential for binding and providing structure, giving the brownies their delightful chewiness.
- Pure Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and warmth to the flavor profile, enhancing the chocolate.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: It’s the star, delivering that intense chocolatey kick we crave!
- Instant Espresso Powder: A secret ingredient that amplifies the chocolate flavor without making it taste like coffee.
- All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of the brownies, helping to achieve that perfect fudgy consistency.
- Salt: A pinch brings all the flavors together, balancing sweetness beautifully.
- Baking Powder: This gives the brownies a bit of lift, making them nice and soft.
- Mini Chocolate Chips: These little gems add extra pockets of melty chocolate goodness.
- Cherry Pie Filling: Provides bursts of sweet, juicy cherries, elevating the flavor with every bite.
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: Used in the ganache, they melt down to form a glossy, luscious topping.
- Heavy Whipping Cream: When combined with chocolate, it creates a rich, smooth ganache that’s irresistibly decadent.
For those who wish to modify the recipe, consider swapping the cherry pie filling for fresh cherries or using dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor. All the specific measurements can be found at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Fudgy Cherry Brownies Ganache
Now, let’s get into the fun part—making these Fudgy Cherry Brownies Ganache! I promise, it’s easier than it sounds. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a warm batch of delicious brownies ready to indulge your sweet tooth. Let’s jump right in!
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
The first step is crucial! Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). This preheating allows the brownies to bake evenly. While that’s warming up, grab a 23×33-centimeter (9×13-inch) baking pan and line it with parchment paper. Make sure to leave some paper hanging over the sides, as this will help you lift the brownies out later.
Step 2: Melt the Butter and Mix Ingredients
In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt your unsalted butter. Pop it in the microwave for about 1 to 2 minutes. Once it’s melted, stir in the unsweetened cocoa powder. This combination gives the brownies that rich, chocolatey base. Let it cool just a bit before moving on; we don’t want scrambled eggs in our batter!
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
Once your butter-cocoa mixture has cooled slightly, whisk in the granulated sugar until combined. Then, crack in four large eggs and pour in the pure vanilla extract. Beat everything together until it’s well blended. This will create a beautiful, glossy base for our Fudgy Cherry Brownies Ganache!
Step 4: Fold in Dry Ingredients
Now, it’s time to add in the dry ingredients. Sprinkle in the baking powder, instant espresso powder, salt, and all-purpose flour. With a gentle hand, fold the flour mixture into the wet ingredients. Be careful not to overmix; we want chewy brownies, not a tough batter!
Step 5: Incorporate Chocolate Chips and Cherries
Next, it’s time to fold in the mini chocolate chips. This part always makes me smile! After that, grab your cherry pie filling. Use a fork to lift the cherries out of the syrup, and then gently fold them into the batter. The goal is to keep those cherries intact for delightful bursts of flavor!
Step 6: Bake the Brownies
Transfer the brownie batter into your prepared baking pan. Spread it evenly, and pop it into the oven. Bake for about 25 to 30 minutes, but here’s the trick—check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center. If it comes out with moist crumbs, they’re ready to cool!
Step 7: Prepare the Ganache
While your brownies cool, let’s make the ganache! In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine semi-sweet chocolate chips with heavy whipping cream. Heat this mixture in 30-second intervals in the microwave, stirring between each session until it’s perfectly smooth and thick. You’re looking for that glossy finish—it’s the icing on the cake (or brownie, in this case)!
Step 8: Drizzle Ganache Over Brownies
Once the brownies have completely cooled, it’s time for the grand finale! Pipe or drizzle the beautiful ganache over the top. Let it set for 20 to 30 minutes. This is the hard part—allowing the ganache to firm up before you cut into those gooey, delicious brownies!
Tips for Success
- Always let the brownies cool completely before adding the ganache for the best results.
- Use quality chocolate for the ganache; it makes a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Keep an eye on baking time—ovens vary, so start checking a few minutes early.
- Line your pan with parchment to make removing the brownies a breeze!
- For extra cherry flavor, toss the cherries in a bit of flour before adding them.
Equipment Needed
- Baking pan (23×33 centimeters) – a 9×13-inch pan works perfectly too.
- Mixing bowls – one large for wet ingredients and a medium for ganache.
- Whisk – a good old-fashioned fork will do in a pinch!
- Microwave-safe bowl – any bowl that can withstand heat will suffice.
- Parchment paper – or just grease the pan if you prefer.
Variations on Fudgy Cherry Brownies Ganache
- Fresh Cherry Swaps: Use fresh pitted cherries instead of canned pie filling for a burst of natural flavor and a pop of color.
- Dark Chocolate Delight: Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate for a richer, more decadent taste.
- Nuts for Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that contrasts with the fudgy texture.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to cater to dietary needs without sacrificing taste.
- Minty Fresh: Incorporate a few drops of peppermint extract in the ganache for a refreshing mint-chocolate twist.
Serving Suggestions for Fudgy Cherry Brownies Ganache
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a luscious dessert that’s simply irresistible.
- Serve warm with whipped cream for an indulgent treat that feels gourmet.
- A drizzle of cherry syrup can enhance the cherry flavor beautifully.
- Accompany with a strong cup of coffee or a glass of sweet red wine.
FAQs about Fudgy Cherry Brownies Ganache
Can I use frozen cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
Absolutely! Frozen cherries work wonderfully as a fresh alternative. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before folding them into the batter.
How should I store my brownies?
Keep your Fudgy Cherry Brownies Ganache in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Just be sure they’re fully cooled before storing to maintain that delicious fudginess!
Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
You can definitely make these brownies ahead of time. They actually taste better after a day or two when the flavors have had a chance to meld. Just add the ganache right before serving!
What if I don’t have instant espresso powder?
If you don’t have instant espresso powder, you can omit it. The brownies will still be deliciously chocolatey. Or, you can replace it with an equal amount of strong brewed coffee for a similar effect.
Can I freeze Fudgy Cherry Brownies Ganache?
Yes! You can freeze these brownies for up to three months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw them in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy!
Final Thoughts
Making Fudgy Cherry Brownies Ganache isn’t just about baking; it’s about crafting moments of joy for yourself and your loved ones. Each bite of these brownies brings together rich chocolate and sweet cherries, creating a symphony of flavors that delights the senses. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself after a long day, these brownies are the perfect indulgence. The joy of slicing into that luscious ganache and revealing the fudgy goodness inside is truly a heartwarming experience. I hope this recipe becomes a cherished part of your kitchen adventures!
Print
Fudgy Cherry Brownies Ganache
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in decadently rich and fudgy cherry brownies topped with a luscious chocolate ganache.
Ingredients
- 227 grams unsalted butter
- 400 grams granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 55 grams unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder
- 125 grams all-purpose flour
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon baking powder
- 85 grams mini chocolate chips
- 1 can (approximately 540 grams) cherry pie filling, drained and cherries separated from syrup
- 260 grams semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 180 millilitres heavy whipping cream
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 175°C. Line a 23×33-centimetre baking pan with parchment paper, allowing overhang for easy removal.
- In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter on high for 1 to 2 minutes. Stir in the cocoa powder until smooth. Allow to cool slightly.
- Whisk granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract into the cooled butter and cocoa mixture until fully blended.
- Add baking powder, espresso powder, and salt. Gradually fold in the flour just until no dry spots remain; do not overmix.
- Gently fold in mini chocolate chips. Using a fork, lift cherries out of the drained pie filling to avoid excess syrup, then carefully fold cherries into the batter.
- Transfer batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 25–30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center emerges with moist crumbs but not wet batter. Allow to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine semi-sweet chocolate chips and heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the chocolate is melted and mixture thickens.
- Whisk ganache until glossy and smooth. Pipe or drizzle over the cooled brownies using a spoon. Let the ganache set for 20–30 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- Ensure brownies are completely cool before adding ganache for best results.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
